Quick Reads
- The Kia Syros EV gets EV-specific updates like a closed front grille, 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, and a charging port on the front fender.
- Expected to offer a claimed driving range of up to 520 km on a full charge.
- Some Kia dealerships have reportedly started unofficial bookings for Rs 25,000.
- The Syros EV is expected to be priced between Rs 14 lakh and Rs 20 lakh.
While Kia already has three electric vehicles in its India portfolio, it inherently needs a volume driver to increase its footprint in the Indian market. That would be the Kia Syros EV, which will essentially become the brand’s most affordable electric car in the Indian market.
The official launch of Syros EV is scheduled to happen shortly; however, the electric compact SUV has finally been spotted completely undisguised during a television commercial (TVC) shoot in Bengaluru. Kia’s second ICE-to-EV converted model after the Clavis EV, the Syros EV will be priced in the Rs 14 to Rs 20 lakh price bracket. Unofficial dealer bookings for the Kia EV have started reportedly.
Kia is preparing to mount a strong challenge against established segment leaders like the Tata Nexon EV, MG Windsor EV, and Mahindra XUV 3XO EV.
Design: Familiar Boxy Proportions with an EV Twist
( Source – r/CarsIndia )
The undisguised spy shots reveal that Kia has chosen to preserve the distinct identity of the standard Syros. The EV retains the same upright stance, thick B-pillars, and rising window line at the C-pillar. However, the front fascia features a noticeably slimmer, closed-off grille flanked by the signature vertical ‘ice cube’ LED headlamps and body-coloured triangular bumper inserts.
Along the sides, the test vehicle sported new 17-inch aerodynamically designed dual-tone alloy wheels. Notably, the front doors featured flush-fitting handles spotted in an ‘open’ position, hinting at a motorised mechanism. The charging port is neatly integrated into the front-left fender. At the rear, the design is nearly as it is from the ICE version, with key features such as the high-mounted L-shaped lighting elements and vertical LED tail lamps, save for the subtle ‘EV’ badge on the tailgate.
Cabin and Features: Premium Focus
The Syros EV will carry over the interior design of the standard ICR model. The cabin will be highlighted by the dual-screen setup, which includes the 12.3-inch infotainment system and digital driver’s display.
Kia is expected to load the Syros EV with premium features to stand out in its segment. The equipment list is likely to include a panoramic sunroof, a powered driver’s seat, and ventilated seats. The steering wheel now features paddle shifters, repurposed for adjusting regenerative braking levels. While the ICE Syros dropped its ADAS suite in a recent update, it remains to be seen if Kia will reintroduce Level 2 autonomous tech for the premium EV derivative.
Battery, Range, and Expected Powertrain
( Source – r/CarsIndia )
Industry sources indicate that the Syros EV will utilise the same battery technology powering the Carens Clavis EV and the Hyundai Creta Electric. Buyers will likely have two choices:
- Standard Range: A 42 kWh battery pack expected to deliver an ARAI-certified range of approximately 420 to 443 km.
- Long Range: A larger 51.4 kWh battery pack capable of a claimed range of up to 520 km.
Because the Syros EV has a smaller footprint and lighter body compared to the Carens, it is expected to squeeze out slightly better efficiency and range from these packs. Both setups will be paired with a front-mounted electric motor. The EV will also support fast DC charging, alongside Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capabilities.
