Kia India recently unveiled the Kia Syros to the country’s thriving sub-4m SUV market. Positioned as a C-segment SUV, the Syros introduces several features that differentiate it from the well-established Kia Sonet, despite both models' almost identical dimensions. Here, we look at how the Syros and Sonet compare across dimensions, features, safety, and specifications.
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Kia Syros vs Kia Sonet: Dimensions
The Syros and Sonet measure 3995 mm, falling under the sub-4m SUV category to avail of tax benefits. The Syros is 15 mm wider and 38 mm taller than the Sonet, contributing to a more commanding road presence. With a 50 mm longer wheelbase, the Syros potentially offers better interior space, particularly for rear passengers. Syros starts with a boot capacity of 390 liters, 5L more than the Sonet's 385L. The Syros is 15 mm wider and 38 mm taller than the Sonet, contributing to a more commanding road presence.
| Dimensions | Kia Syros | Kia Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 3995 mm | 3995 mm |
| Width | 1805 mm | 1790 mm |
| Height | 1680 mm | 1642 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2550 mm | 2500 mm |
| Ground Clearance | TBA | 205 mm |
However, sliding and reclining seats in higher Syros variants expand this to 465 liters, a significant 80L advantage. The Syros can accommodate 17-inch wheels, compared to Sonet’s 16-inch maximum size, enhancing its SUV-like stance. Tyre width remains the same for both.
Kia Syros vs Kia Sonet: Design
While the Sonet’s design leans towards sleek and sporty aesthetics, the Syros appears boxier, with visual bulk that draws parallels to the larger Kia Seltos. This design differentiation may appeal to buyers looking for a more rugged SUV look.
Kia Syros vs Kia Sonet: Platform
The Sonet is built on Hyundai-Kia’s K2 platform, known for its structural rigidity and versatility, while the Syros is based on a reinforced version of the K1 platform, typically seen in smaller cars, but strengthened for SUV dynamics.
Kia Syros vs Kia Sonet: Engine Options
Syros and Sonet share the same engine options, minus the Sonet-exclusive 1.2L Kappa Petrol engine. Both SUVs offer a 1.0L turbo petrol and a 1.5L diesel engine, and as you can see in the table, the state of tune remains identical across both vehicles.
| Kia Syros | Kia Sonet | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Options | 1.0L Turbo Petrol/ 1.5L Diesel | 1.0L Turbo Petrol/ 1.2L NA Petrol 1.5L Diesel |
| Max Power | 118 bhp/ 113 bhp | 118 bhp/ 82 bhp/ 113 bhp |
| Peak Torque | 172 Nm/ 250 Nm | 172 Nm/ 115 Nm/ 250 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-Speed MT/ 6-Speed TC 7-Speed DCT | 5-Speed MT/ 6-speed iMT/ 6-Speed TC/ 7-Speed DCT |
Kia Syros vs Kia Sonet: Gearbox Options
The Syros differ in transmission offerings. It is available with a manual gearbox on the turbo petrol, unlike the Sonet, and an automatic gearbox, which is common between the two. The Sonet, though, receives the iMT unit. Both models feature traction modes in automatic variants for improved drivability.
Kia Syros vs Kia Sonet: Features and Technology
Syros takes the lead in safety features with a Level-2 ADAS suite that includes 16 autonomous features, such as radar-based systems, making it more advanced than Sonet’s camera-based ADAS system. Sonet, on the other hand, receives Level 1 ADAS. Neither SUV has been crash-tested yet.
Kia Syros vs Kia Sonet: Comfort and Convenience
The Kia Syros distinguishes itself with several back-seat and comfort-oriented features, such as sliding and reclining rear seats, which are not offered on the Sonet. The Syros also receives rear seat ventilation, a panoramic sunroof, and a dual-channel dashcam.
Having said that, both SUVs share front seat ventilation and a powered driver’s seat but miss out on rain-sensing wipers. As far as lighting and ambience are concerned, Syros boasts a more sophisticated ambient lighting system than the Sonet.
Kia Syros vs Kia Sonet: Verdict
While the Syros and Sonet target similar buyers, Kia has equipped the Syros with distinct features to set it apart. For tech enthusiasts, Syros’ advanced Level-2 ADAS and radar-based safety systems offer significant appeal. For comfort seekers, features like sliding/reclining seats, rear seat ventilation, and a panoramic sunroof make Syros a better choice for family-oriented buyers. For practical buyers, the larger boot space (465L with adjustable seats) gives Syros an edge for utility.
However, buyers valuing sporty aesthetics, compact dimensions, and transmission versatility may still find the Sonet appealing, especially with its exclusive iMT options and proven K2 platform.
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