The Kia Syros is the Korean carmaker's second sub-compact SUV after the Kia Sonet. It is positioned above the Sonet and aims to offer improved interior space and features while benefitting from the lower taxes that sub-4-metre vehicles get. We have compared these two models to evaluate how they stack up in terms of equipment. Prices for the Syros will be out in February 2025, and bookings will commence on January 3.
Kia Syros vs Sonet features: exterior
The new kid on the block maintains a ‘tall boy’ silhouette as opposed to the Sonet’s conventional compact SUV look. A panoramic sunroof, flush-type door handles and 17-inch alloy wheels set the Syros apart; the Sonet gets a single-pane sunroof, pull-type handles and 16-inch alloys. The Sonet, however, gets connected LED tail-lights and dual-tone body colours.
Common offerings on both SUVs are: automatic headlights, Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) and roof rails.
Kia Syros vs Sonet features: interior
The Syros’ Trinity display – touchscreen infotainment (12.3 inch), driver’s display (12.3 inch) and touchscreen panel (5 inch) for HVAC controls – is bigger than the Sonet’s displays for infotainment and instrumentation, each measuring 10.25 inches. Notably, the Sonet also misses out on the digital climate control panel, dual-tone dashboard, leatherette upholstery, eight speakers (Sonet gets seven), and reclining, sliding and ventilated second row seats. The Syros has a 465-litre boot (when second row seats are pushed completely forward, while the Sonet's is only 385 litres.
Kia Syros vs Sonet features: safety kit
As standard, Kia provides six airbags across its line-up in India. The Syros and Sonet share safety features like a 360-degree parking camera, front and rear parking sensors, hill-start assist, three-point seat belts for all passengers, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ABS with EBD, all-wheel disc brakes and a tyre pressure monitor. In the Syros, Kia has added Level 2 ADAS (Level 1 in the Sonet), an electronic parking brake (EPB) and side sensors at the front and rear.
