Ritesh Madhok
THE GOAN | PANAJI
The Kia Syros EV takes the brand’s compact SUV formula into the electric era, combining a spacious cabin, premium features and two battery options with a surprisingly comprehensive ownership package. Priced between Rs 13.49 lakh and Rs 19.99 lakh (ex-showroom), it sits above several mainstream compact EVs but counters with features usually seen in larger cars. Kia is also offering Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS), an assured buyback programme and a lifetime warranty on the high-voltage battery, addressing some of the biggest concerns around EV ownership.
Exteriors
The Syros EV retains the upright and boxy design of the ICE-powered Syros, with its vertically stacked LED lighting, distinctive front fascia, flush-style door handles and upright tailgate. EV-specific touches include the charging port on the front-left fender and aerodynamic alloy wheels. At 3,995mm long, it remains easy to manoeuvre in urban traffic, while the tall stance provides good visibility. Practicality is impressive for its size, with a 390-litre boot that expands to 465 litres when the rear bench is moved forward. There is also a 16-litre frunk, useful for storing charging cables and smaller items.
Interiors and Features
The cabin is the Syros EV’s biggest strength. The upright design translates into generous passenger space, particularly at the rear. The second row gets sliding and reclining functionality, while wide-opening doors and a flat floor make access easy. Front seats are ventilated and the rear seat base also gets ventilation, although the backrest is not ventilated. There is a four-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat, rear AC vents, wireless charging, USB-C ports and a dual-pane panoramic glass roof.
The dashboard is dominated by Kia’s 30-inch Trinity display, combining a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, 12.3-inch infotainment screen and 5-inch climate-control display. Higher variants add an eight-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, digital key, 64-colour ambient lighting, a dual-camera smart dashcam and Kia Connect 2.0 with more than 95 connected functions. OTA updates, remote climate control, battery pre-conditioning and V2L add further convenience. Storage space is plentiful, although the large lower tray uses hard plastic and can allow loose objects to rattle. There is also no cooled storage compartment.
Battery & Specifications
The Syros EV is available with 42kWh and 51.4kWh battery packs. The smaller battery produces 135PS and 255Nm, with a claimed MIDC range of 443km. The larger Extended Range version produces 171PS and 255Nm and claims 526km. Both use a single front-mounted electric motor. DC fast charging at up to 100kW takes the battery from 10 to 80 per cent in a claimed 39 minutes. The top-spec version also gets an 11kW AC charger for quicker home charging.
Kia’s ownership proposition is particularly interesting. The assured buyback programme offers up to 80 per cent of the vehicle’s value after three years, subject to programme conditions. BaaS reduces the upfront vehicle price to Rs 7.99 lakh, with the battery cost separated into a usage-based payment. Kia also provides a lifetime warranty on the high-voltage battery. These measures are designed to reduce concerns over depreciation and long-term battery ownership.
Drive & Handling
The 51.4kWh version feels brisk, with instant torque making city acceleration and overtaking effortless. In testing, it crossed 100kmph in a little over eight seconds. Three regenerative-braking levels are available, and the system provides a strong one-pedal-driving character.
The steering is light at low speeds but gains weight progressively as speeds rise. Ride comfort is good around town, with the suspension absorbing smaller imperfections well. However, the softer setup can become unsettled over larger undulations and broken roads, particularly with a full load. Body roll and pitch are also noticeable when driven harder. Refinement, meanwhile, is excellent, with the electric powertrain remaining impressively quiet.
Safety
Safety equipment includes six airbags, ABS, ESC, hill-start assist, all-wheel disc brakes, TPMS, ISOFIX mounts and an electronic parking brake with auto-hold. Higher variants get Level 2 ADAS with 16 functions, a 360-degree camera and blind-view monitor. The dual-camera dashcam adds another layer of everyday security.
Competition
The Syros EV competes with the Tata Nexon EV, MG Windsor EV and Mahindra XUV 3XO EV, while the Maruti Suzuki e Vitara overlaps at the upper end of its price range. Rivals may offer advantages in particular areas, but the Syros stands out with its rear-seat flexibility, premium equipment, compact dimensions and ownership programmes.
Verdict
The Kia Syros EV is not the sharpest-handling EV in its segment, nor is it the cheapest. But it delivers where it matters for everyday family use. The cabin is spacious and exceptionally well equipped, the powertrain is smooth and responsive, and the larger battery offers a useful claimed range of 526km. Add the panoramic roof, ventilated seats, electric driver’s seat, V2L, smart dashcam and extensive connected technology, and it feels genuinely premium. At Rs 13.49 lakh to Rs 19.99 lakh, the Syros EV makes a strong case for buyers seeking a compact electric SUV that combines practicality, technology and a more reassuring ownership proposition.
