Kia Syros EV Spotted Testing in India Ahead of Launch
Kia India has recently unveiled the next-generation Kia Seltos in the Indian market, and now the automotive giant is gearing up for its next major launch: the Kia Syros electric vehicle (EV). Expected to debut later this year, the upcoming EV has been spotted testing on Indian roads under full camouflage, generating significant buzz among car enthusiasts and industry watchers.
Design and Exterior Features
The Kia Syros EV is anticipated to share much of its styling and components with the internal combustion engine (ICE) powered Syros model. However, subtle design changes are likely to distinguish it as an electric variant. In the spy images, the vehicle is heavily camouflaged, making it challenging to discern new design elements, but visible features confirm its identity.
Key exterior highlights include:
- A boxy shape with pronounced wheel arches for a robust SUV stance.
- Partially exposed headlamps and tail-lamps that match the Syros design language.
- Alloy wheels that align with the model's aesthetic.
- An exposed radar unit on the grille for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).
- A charging port located on the front right fender for convenient access.
Additional exterior elements comprise distinctive headlamps with LED daytime running lights (DRLs), a slatted grille, dual-tone outside rearview mirrors with integrated turn indicators, flush-fitting door handles, and roof rails. At the rear, the SUV sports vertically stacked tail-lamps and a sculpted bumper, enhancing its modern appeal.
Interior and Technology
While the interior was not visible during testing, the electric version is expected to retain many features from the ICE model, with minor updates to set it apart. Anticipated interior highlights include:
- Dual 12.3-inch displays for infotainment and instrumentation, providing a high-tech cockpit experience.
- A panoramic sunroof for an airy and spacious cabin feel.
- Sliding and reclining second-row seats with ventilation for enhanced comfort.
- Level 2 ADAS and a 360-degree camera for improved safety and convenience.
The cabin is also likely to receive subtle design tweaks and EV-specific badging to differentiate it from the standard model, ensuring a unique identity for the electric variant.
Technical Specifications and Platform
Technical details remain limited at this stage, but the Syros EV will utilize a front-wheel-drive setup. It is expected to share its K1 platform with the Hyundai Inster EV, which could streamline production and enhance efficiency. Battery options are projected to include 42kWh and 49kWh packs, similar to the Inster EV, offering WLTP-rated ranges of approximately 300km and 355km, respectively. This positions the Syros EV as a competitive option in the entry-level electric SUV segment.
Market Competition and Pricing
Upon its launch, the Kia Syros EV is set to rival the Tata Punch EV in the entry-level electric SUV category. Higher variants could also compete with models like the Tata Nexon EV and the XUV3XO EV, expanding its market reach. Pricing is anticipated to fall within the range of Rs 10 lakh to Rs 15 lakh, making it an attractive proposition for budget-conscious consumers seeking electric mobility solutions.
As Kia India continues to expand its EV portfolio, the Syros EV represents a strategic move to capture a growing segment of the Indian automotive market. With its blend of familiar design, advanced features, and competitive pricing, it aims to appeal to a wide audience of eco-conscious drivers.
