CARVERSAL

​Kia has taken a different approach with the 2025 Kia Syros. While it shares its length with popular subcompact SUVs like the Tata Nexon, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Mahindra 3XO, and even Kia’s own Sonet, it prioritizes passenger comfort, particularly in the rear seat. With smart packaging and clever engineering, Kia has created an SUV that offers a best-in-class backseat experience. But does that make the Syros the best compact SUV to buy? Let’s find out.

Kia Syros 2025: Styling & Design

The Kia Syros has received mixed reactions when it comes to styling. Unlike the proportionally designed compact SUVs dominating the segment, the Syros adopts a boxier, functional-first approach.

• The wheels are pushed out to the corners, increasing the wheelbase by 50mm compared to the Sonet, despite retaining the same 3995mm length.

• The track width is 15mm wider, and the car stands 15mm taller than its sibling.

• It features an upright tailgate, stubby nose, and flush door handles—all elements that contribute to interior space rather than just aesthetics.

While its styling may not appeal to everyone, the function-over-form approach makes sense when you step inside.

Unmatched Backseat Comfort

The Syros' true strength lies in its backseat experience, where Kia has made significant improvements:

• The extra wheelbase translates into better rear legroom.

• The 60:40 split rear bench is mounted on sliding rails, allowing passengers to adjust seat position based on their preference. If boot space isn't a priority, sliding the seat back creates legroom that rivals mid-size SUVs.

• The tall and flat roofline provides ample headroom.

• The reclining backrest further enhances comfort, making it one of the most relaxing rear seats in the segment.

• Rear sun blinds and seat ventilation add a premium touch. However, it's worth noting that the ventilation feature only cools the seat base and not the backrest.

• While the width has slightly increased over the Sonet, three passengers might still feel cramped. Two adults, however, will find the rear seat plush and spacious.

This intelligent packaging ensures that the Kia Syros offers the best rear-seat experience of any sub-4m SUV.

Boot Space & Practicality

Despite prioritizing rear-seat comfort, Kia has ensured that the Syros remains practical:

• With the rear seats pushed back, the boot offers 390 liters of storage, enough for multiple cabin bags.

• Moving the seat forward increases storage to 465 liters, making it one of the largest boots in its class.

• Removing the parcel shelf further maximizes storage space.

Unlike many compact SUVs, the Syros' boot space is a well-thought-out feature rather than an afterthought.

Interior & Features

Step inside the Syros, and the cabin feels premium and high-tech.

• The 30-inch panoramic screen takes center stage, combining:

• Two 12.3-inch displays for infotainment and instrumentation.

• A 5-inch screen for climate control.

• The small screen houses HVAC controls, but physical buttons are also available for core climate functions—making operation more intuitive.

• The new two-spoke steering wheel features an offset Kia logo and drive mode selectors for easy access.

Engines & Performance

The Kia Syros offers two engine options:

1. 1.0-litre turbo-petrol (from the Sonet)

2. 1.5-litre diesel engine

Unlike the Sonet, the Syros does not offer a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. This decision is likely due to:

• The Syros’ additional weight (about 150kg more than the Sonet) would make the 1.2-litre engine underpowered.

• Kia’s strategy is to position the Syros as a more premium offering.

Driving Experience: 1.5-litre Diesel

For the first drive, we tested the 1.5-litre diesel engine:

• Produces 114bhp and 250Nm of torque.

• Available with both manual and automatic transmissions.

• Feels smooth, refined, and well-suited to the Syros’ character.

• Low-end torque makes city driving effortless, while Sport mode enhances highway performance.

• Paddle shifters are available, but the torque converter automatic does a great job on its own.

Being a diesel, the Syros should also offer excellent fuel efficiency—though a longer test drive would be needed to confirm real-world figures.

Verdict: Should You Buy the Kia Syros?

The Kia Syros takes a unique approach to the sub-4m SUV segment, prioritizing backseat comfort, space, and practicality.

Pros:

✔ Unmatched rear seat comfort—best in class and comparable to larger SUVs.
✔ Flexible boot space that adapts to passenger needs.
✔ Feature-packed cabin with premium tech and thoughtful usability.
✔ Well-sorted diesel engine with smooth performance.
✔ Quirky but functional design that maximizes interior space.

Cons:

❌ Styling might not appeal to everyone.
❌ No steering reach adjustment, though the default position is comfortable.
❌ No naturally aspirated petrol option, which might have lowered the entry price.

If rear seat comfort and practicality are your priorities, the Kia Syros is easily the best choice in its segment. While some may prefer more conventionally styled SUVs, Kia’s innovative approach makes the Syros a standout compact SUV.

Should you buy it? If comfort and space matter to you, absolutely go ahead with it.