By Otsile Kadiege

Kia India recently took the veils off a new compact SUV – the all-new Syros. According to Kia, the new the Syros is tailored to meet the needs of urban drivers and tech-savvy adventurers. The newcomer will be built on the brand’s reinforced K1 platform and will feature first in-segment rear sliding, reclining and ventilated seats, a dual-pane panoramic sunroof and Level 2 ADAS with 16-Autonomous Safety Features, complemented by a comprehensive suite of 20 Robust Hi Standard Safety Package to name a few.

Exterior design and styling

Outside, the Syros embodies Kia’s “Opposites United” philosophy. Highlights include Kia’s signature starmap LED lighting, a distinctive Kia Signature Digital Tiger Face, 17-inch Crystal Cut alloy wheels, flush door handles, puddle lamps with Kia logo projection, muscular contours, and split LED taillights.

Interior design and technology

Inside, the Syros is crammed with features one would expect from SUVs above its segment. Notable cabin highlights include first in segment sliding and reclining, 60:40 split rear seats, front & rear Ventilated seats, a 30-inch Trinity Panoramic Display panel – Connected Car Navigation Cockpit with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, dual-pane panoramic sunroof, Sporty alloy pedals, and 64 colour ambient mood lighting, Double D-Cut Steering Wheel, a 4-Way Powered Driver Seat, a Harman Kardon Premium 8 Speakers Sound System and a smartphone wireless charger.

Safety and driver assistance systems

The Kia Syros will be equipped with ADAS Level 2, it features 16 autonomous driving aids, including Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Lane Keep Assist, 360 Degree Camera with Blind View Monitor and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, providing a safer, more intuitive driving experience. The Kia Syros is also equipped with 20 standard robust hi-safety features, such as Electronic Stability Control, Hill Start Assist control, six airbags, Vehicle Stability Management, and an Electric Parking Brake with Auto Hold.

Powertrain

The Syros will be available with two powertrain options – a Smartstream 1.0-liter turbo petrol with 88.3 kW/172Nm and a 1.5-liter CRDi diesel with 85 kW/250Nm paired with manual and automatic transmission.

Availability

Kia South Africa is yet to confirm local availability