Kia has recently expanded its lineup with the launch of the Syros, a compact SUV that sits below the Seltos in size and features. But with both models bragging about impressive tech and design, it’s easy to get confused about which to choose. While the Syros is aimed at a different audience with a sub-4m body, the Seltos offers a more premium experience. Let’s break down the specs and features of both to help you make an informed decision.
Dimensions and Design: Different Strokes for Different Folks
The Kia Syros, at 3995 mm in length, is smaller than the Seltos (4365 mm). But despite being more compact, the Syros is slightly wider (1805 mm vs 1800 mm) and taller (1680 mm vs 1645 mm), giving it a more commanding road presence. And while it might lose out on wheelbase length by 60 mm (Syros: 2550 mm, Seltos: 2610 mm), the Syros compensates with 32 extra litres of boot space (465L vs 433L).
Regarding design, the Syros channels its electric sibling's bold, boxy look, the EV9, with squared wheel arches, flush door handles, and vertically stacked LED headlights. The Seltos, on the other hand, maintains a more dynamic and sporty profile with a smart grille and aggressive rear design. While the Syros is rugged and modern, the Seltos is the sportier, more refined option.
Tech and Features: A Game of Inches
The Syros and the Seltos are packed with tech, though the Syros takes a slight lead in some areas. For example, it has a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and a matching 12.3-inch digital driver’s display, surpassing the Seltos’ 10.25-inch units. It also features second-row seat ventilation, a feature the Seltos lacks. However, the Seltos offers an 8-way powered driver’s seat adjustment (compared to the Syros' 4-way), a heads-up display, and a larger 18-inch alloy wheel setup.
Both SUVs have a panoramic sunroof, wireless phone charging, a premium sound system (Harman Kardon in Syros, Bose in Seltos), and connected car tech. Both feature Level-2 ADAS, parking sensors, and a 360-degree camera system regarding safety.
Performance: Power Options Galore
In terms of engines, the Syros offers two options:
- A 1-litre turbo-petrol engine produces 120 bhp and 172 Nm of torque.
- A 1.5-litre diesel engine delivering 116 bhp and 250 Nm of torque.
Depending on the variant, both engines come with a manual or automatic transmission.
Meanwhile, the Seltos offers three engines:
- A 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine produces 115 bhp and 144 Nm of torque.
- A 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine generates 160 bhp and 253 Nm of torque.
- A 1.5-litre diesel engine produces 116 bhp and 250 Nm of torque.
The 160 bhp turbo-petrol engine in the Seltos provides a significant performance boost, ideal for those seeking more power and acceleration.
Pricing: What’s the Damage?
Kia has yet to announce the Syros’ pricing, which is expected next month, so we can’t make a final call yet. However, the Seltos is available between Rs 10.89 lakh and Rs 20.44 lakh (ex-showroom). If the Syros comes more affordable, it could be an attractive alternative for those seeking a feature-packed, compact SUV.
Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose?
While the Syros offers a smaller footprint with impressive features and tech, the Seltos stands tall with more powertrain options and a more premium appeal. But we drive it soon to give you our definitive verdict. So stay tuned for that.
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