Kia Syros vs Sonet: A Detailed Comparison Of The Two Sub-4m SUVs

Kia has unveiled its latest sub-compact SUV, the Syros, positioned in the same segment as the Sonet but with a more premium appeal and a whole new design theory. The Syros aims to carve out its niche within the sub-4-meter SUV category, with a list of features unmatched by any other competitor in this space. 

While the Sonet already stands as a well-equipped product from Kia, the Syros takes things a step further. If you're curious about how these two SUVs stack up against each other, we've put them head-to-head in a detailed comparison below:

Kia Syros vs Sonet: Dimensions

While the Syros shares a similar length with the Sonet, it is noticeably larger in every other dimension. It has a 50 mm longer wheelbase and a significantly larger boot space, making it the bigger car overall. Additionally, the Syros features a design inspired by the EV9, setting it apart from the Sonet and Seltos in terms of styling.

Kia Syros vs Sonet: Features

The Syros positions itself as a more premium offering from Kia compared to the Sonet, and while they share several features, the Syros justifiably offers an upgraded set of amenities. It features a larger set of alloy wheels, a bigger infotainment screen, and a fully digital driver’s display. Additional enhancements include wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a high-end sound system with more speakers, and a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, compared to the Sonet’s single-pane unit. 

Exclusive to Syros, there are some features like ventilated rear seats with reclining and sliding functions, an air purifier display, a dual dashcam setup, side parking sensors, and an electronic parking brake. 

Kia Syros vs Sonet: Powertrain

When it comes to powertrain options, the Sonet has more options than the new Syros. The Syros inherits its powertrain lineup from the Sonet, featuring a 1-litre turbo-petrol engine delivering 120 PS and 172 Nm, and a 1.5-litre diesel engine producing 116 PS and 250 Nm. Transmission choices for the Syros include a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic for the petrol engine, and a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic for the diesel.

The Sonet, however, expands on this configuration by offering an additional 6-speed intelligent manual transmission (6-iMT) for the diesel and replacing the 6MT with a 6-iMT for the petrol engine. Moreover, the Sonet also has a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine on offer, producing 83 PS and 115 Nm, available with a 5-speed manual transmission, a powertrain option not available in the Syros.

Considering all its offerings, the Kia Syros, while technically part of the sub-4m SUV segment, establishes a category of its own as a next-generation model in the brand's SUV lineup. The Syros is set to go on sale in India in January 2025, with pricing yet to be announced. For context, the Kia Sonet, currently available, is priced between Rs 7.99 lakh and Rs 15.76 lakh (ex-showroom). Given the Syros' upgraded feature set and premium positioning, it is expected to command a notable price premium over the Sonet.

 So, if you had to pick a sub-4m Kia SUV for yourself, which one would you go for? Let us know in the comments below.