The Kia Syros, the Korean automaker’s second sub-compact SUV, is positioned above the popular Kia Sonet. While both fall under the sub-4-metre category to leverage tax benefits, the Syros aims to deliver enhanced space, advanced features, and a premium driving experience. With bookings starting on January 3, 2025, and pricing to be announced in February 2025, here’s a closer look at how the Syros compares to the Sonet across exterior, interior, and safety features.
Exterior Features Comparison
The Kia Syros adopts a bold and modern “tall boy” design, setting it apart from the Sonet’s more traditional compact SUV appearance. Key distinctions include:
- Syros: Panoramic sunroof, flush-fitting door handles, and 17-inch alloy wheels.
- Sonet: Single-pane sunroof, pull-type handles, and 16-inch alloys, along with connected LED tail-lights and dual-tone body colour options.
Common Features: Both models come equipped with automatic headlights, LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), and roof rails.
Interior Features Comparison
Inside, the Syros outshines the Sonet with a more spacious and tech-forward cabin. Key differences include:
- Syros Highlights:
- A Trinity display setup with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, 12.3-inch driver’s display, and a 5-inch touchscreen for climate controls.
- Reclining, sliding, and ventilated second-row seats.
- Dual-tone dashboard, leatherette upholstery, and an eight-speaker audio system.
- A larger boot capacity of 465 litres (with second-row seats adjusted forward).
- Sonet Highlights:
- 10.25-inch displays for infotainment and instrumentation.
- Single-zone manual climate controls and seven speakers.
- A smaller boot capacity of 385 litres.
Safety Features Comparison
Both the Syros and Sonet prioritize safety with a solid set of standard features:
- Six airbags, a 360-degree parking camera, front and rear parking sensors, ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), hill-start assist, and all-wheel disc brakes.
However, the Syros steps up with advanced safety technology, including:
- Level 2 ADAS features (versus Level 1 in the Sonet).
- An electronic parking brake (EPB).
- Front and rear side sensors for enhanced maneuverability.
Conclusion
The Kia Syros builds on the Sonet’s strengths with a premium design, larger displays, superior cabin features, and more advanced safety technology. While the Sonet remains an excellent choice in the compact SUV segment, the Syros is clearly aimed at buyers seeking a more refined and feature-rich experience.
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