Billed as a new species of SUV, Kia aims to elevate its compact crossover portfolio with the Syros.
Image: Kia
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Set to slot into Kia’s line-up between the Sonet and Seltos, the Syros is underpinned by a reinforced version of the Hyundai-Kia K1 platform that currently features in Hyundai’s Exter and Grand i10 models. The Syros’ boxy bodywork 115 mm shorter than the Sonet’s, front to rear. However, the newcomer’s sub-four-metre frame is 10 mm wider and 55 mm taller, contributing to a purposeful stance, while the wheelbase is 50 mm longer than that of its compact SUV sibling.
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The Syros was revealed with a (88 kW/172 N.m) 1.0-litre, three-cylinder turbopetrol and a (85 kW/250 N.m) 1.5-litre, four-cylinder turbodiesel. While both powertrains are available with a six-speed manual gearbox, a seven-speed dual-clutch unit and six-speed automatic are on offer with the former and latter, respectively.
Stepping inside, the Syros features such items as 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment and digital instrumentation, a 5.0-inch display for operating climate, wireless smartphone screen mirroring and charging, an eight-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, a 360-degree camera array and a panoramic sunroof. Safety items include six airbags, Isofix anchorages and an array of active safety systems.
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Although Kia’s South African arm has yet to confirm local availability, the popularity of compact crossovers in our market and the fact that Syros is already being built in right-hand drive suggest its feasibility. Should it come our way, the 1.0-litre turbopetrol would be the most likely powerplant offering.
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The post Kia’s Syros is a Hyundai Exter Twin Likely Headed for South Africa appeared first on CAR Magazine.
