Kia Syros To Offer A Lot More Legroom Than Sonet
Kia India is actively testing the Clavis/ Syros SUV in India, indicating an imminent market launch. Upon launch, it will be positioned between the Sonet and Seltos. Even while being a sub-4 meter SUV, it would be larger than the Sonet, but the latest news has confirmed it to come with significantly more legroom at the rear.
The latest set of spy shots, shared by Autocar India shows a camouflaged mule being tested. It shows the dimensions and design of the SUV. It looks boxy and the vehicle has a tall-boy stance. These would all help in generating more cabin room and an airy feel inside.
If you’d recollect, the Sonet has a slightly compromised rear seat, in terms of room on offer. The Syros will most likely capitalize on the vertical space available. This innovative layout is expected to deliver rear-seat comfort and interior space that not only surpasses the Sonet but also rivals the larger Kia Seltos, making it an attractive option for buyers seeking spaciousness in a compact SUV.
The Syros’ design draws inspiration from Kia’s flagship EV9 SUV. It could come with angular headlights, a clamshell bonnet, vertical taillights, 16-inch diamond-cut dual-tone alloy wheels, roof rails and distinct daytime running lights. The number plate sits on the bumper. Some of the design cues could remind you of the Kia Soul sold globally.
It was previously anticipated that the Syros would have 17-inch wheels with funky triple-slotted geometric patterns, confirmed by early prototype sightings. More recent sightings, however, show four-slotted patterns for wheels.
Higher variants of the SUV will come packed with features. It will likely have a Seltos-inspired digital instrument cluster, 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, leatherette upholstery, climate control, selectable drive modes, a powered front seat and high-quality Bose audio.
The vehicle will come with ADAS. Other safety equipment expected are six airbags, a 360-degree camera, front parking sensors, ABS, and rear disc brakes.
Expected Powertrains
There hasn’t been any official word on possible powertrains. It is expected that the Syros will borrow its powertrains from the Sonet. It will then have three engines on offer- 1.2 naturally aspirated petrol, 1.0 turbocharged petrol and 1.5 diesel. The transmission choices will likely include a manual, iMT, and a torque converter.
Possible Pricing And Placement
In Kia’s portfolio, the Clavis/Syros will sit between the Sonet and Seltos. The former currently sells in the 8-15.7 lakh price range (ex-showroom). The Seltos, on the other hand, is priced in the range of 10.9 -20.45 lakh (ex-showroom). The Syros will be priced a little higher than the Sonet.
This strategic pricing will help Kia place this as the perfect rival to the Nexon, Hyundai Venue and Mahindra XUV 3XO. This segment has now become extremely competitive. When compared to its rivals, the Syros will have an upper hand in the rear seat legroom, overall cabin space, design, and features offered.
Syros EV And Hybrid Coming?
Kia is expected to introduce an electric version of the SUV in the future. The EV could deliver a range of up to 450 km. It could even spawn a hybrid version.
Why We Think This SUV Will Be Called Syros?
Kia has long been working on this B-segment SUV. It recently filed a trademark for the name Clavis. This would, however, be for the global markets. The manufacturer registered a trademark for the name ‘ Syros’ in India. This makes us suspect that this could be the name of the upcoming B-SUV.
Image source: Autocar India