Kia Syros

The Syros is based on the smaller K1 platform, unlike the Sonet, which uses the K2. This newer platform allows advanced features like remote diagnosis and OTA updates for body controllers — the Syros has 16 of these. The reinforced K1 structure includes hot-stamped body parts, and the Syros has achieved a 5-star BNCAP test rating. 

The Syros’ quirky styling will not appeal to everyone. There’s funky elements like ice-cube headlights pushed to the corners (vulnerable to parking damage), an upright nose, and EV-inspired closed grille. Wheel sizes vary from 15- to 17-inches, with black cladding running around the car. The tail-lamps merge into the cladding, and the rear gets L-shaped DRLs. 

The interior is a strong point, with excellent space and segment-first features like cooled and reclining rear seats. Design is mostly conventional with some quirks, like a squircle steering wheel. Four interior themes are offered with youthful accents and ambient lighting. Sustainable materials lend a premium feel, and hard plastics are minimal.

The 2,550mm wheelbase exceeds rivals like the Brezza and Nexon. Rear seat comfort is a highlight, with sliding, reclining seats and good legroom. Only the seat base is cooled in the rear due to packaging constraints. Front seats offer better lumbar support. Boot capacity ranges from 390 to 465 litres depending on seat position.

Power comes from a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol (120hp/172Nm) and a 1.5-litre diesel (116hp/250Nm). The petrol is paired with either a 6-speed manual or 7-speed DCT. The DCT delivers an 11.63s 0-100kph time. There’s some lag below 1,500rpm, and the engine is vocal past 2,200rpm, hinting at limited insulation.

The diesel offers good low-end torque and smooth, if lazy, auto shifts. In both engines, refinement suffers as engine noise becomes noticeable past mid-range revs. The petrol manual is engaging with a springy clutch and defined gear gates.

Due to its weight, fuel economy is underwhelming. Claimed figures: 18.20kpl (manual), 17.68kpl (auto). Real-world city mileage was lower — 9.10kpl (manual petrol), 8.30kpl (auto petrol), and 10.80kpl (diesel auto). Highway mileage improves modestly.

A firm suspension setup controls body roll to some extent but makes ride stiff over ruts. Diesel variants feel sharper over bumps. Steering offers good highway stability but feels heavy in the city.

The Syros is well equipped, with a large glass panel housing a 12.3-inch touchscreen, digital instrument panel, and a 5-inch HVAC touchscreen. Main climate controls are physical toggles. Lower trims get buttons instead of the HVAC screen.

Other key features include a Harman Kardon 8-speaker system, ‘Hey Kia’ voice assistant, 360-degree camera, dual-pane sunroof, and connected car tech. There’s also radar- and camera-based ADAS, including smart cruise control and lane assist. Additional safety includes hill start assist, ABS with ESC, and 6 airbags and it has a 5-star BNCAP rating. 

Priced between Rs 9 lakh and 17.8 lakh, the Syros sits between the Sonet and Seltos. It’s clearly built around comfort and features, not performance or highway cruising. NVH levels disappoint, but the rest — spacious interior, reclinable cooled seats, extensive equipment — makes it a compelling urban SUV for comfort-seekers.