Korea’s Kia launched its latest car, Syros, a compact SUV (sports utility vehicle), on Thursday afternoon. Billed as a global launch and with export plans to Southeast Asia and possibly Africa, the model is primarily aimed at the Indian market.
Based on the platform of its earlier compact SUV model, Sonet, the Kia Syros is not just a sub-4-metre SUV—it comes with a dramatic new design and is loaded with features. The idea is bold designs but with functionality.
This ranges from a neat aesthetic, level-2 ADAS, 17 autonomous safety features, and 20 robust standard safety packages. One of the standout features is a segment-first adjustable rear seat, which can slide and recline and make way for extra luggage that won’t fit in the boot, should the need arise.
“With Syros, we are further enhancing our product portfolio, offering a new species of SUV that combines superior comfort, cutting-edge technology and bold design,” said Kia India MD and CEO Gwanggu Lee.
Kia hopes to revv up its sales with the launch of Syros. Though the price announcement is only expected at the Auto Expo next month or around that time, it is expected to be competitive.
The idea of a compact SUV (sub-4m, a category not even considered as an SUV amongst purists, is big in India because of the lower taxes that apply to it, thus making it more attractive to price-conscious Indian consumers) is to drive up volumes to straddle the growing SUV segment in the country. Kia aims to increase its sales on the back of the Syros to 3 lakh next year from 2.5 lakh presently once Syros hits the market.
Lee also said the company is considering an electric variant of the model later.
Interestingly, Syros comes in the same category as Kia’s Sonet, though marketing head Hardeep Singh Brar was at pains to point out that it wouldn’t hit Sonet sales.
“We’re not looking at cannibalising [the Sonet],” he said. “This customer [for Syros] is very distinct—someone who wants new age design, who wants value for money.” A lot then will depend on how the Syros will be positioned price-wise, below or maybe just above the cost of the Sonet.