The Indian SUV market is constantly growing, with automakers introducing new and innovative models to meet consumer demands. One of the latest entrants into the compact SUV segment is the Kia Syros, which has been positioned between the Kia Seltos and the Kia Sonet. While both Kia Syros and Kia Sonet are sub-four-meter SUVs, the Syros is slightly bigger, offering more interior space, premium features, and added comfort.
If you are considering buying a compact SUV that provides comfort and advanced features, this detailed comparison will help you understand the differences between Kia Syros and Kia Sonet in terms of design, space, comfort, features, performance, and overall usability. By the end of this guide, you will have a clear understanding of which SUV is the best choice for you.
1. Introduction to Kia Syros and Kia Sonet
Both Kia Syros and Kia Sonet are highly popular compact SUVs catering to different customer needs.
- Kia Sonet is a well-established compact SUV known for its aggressive styling, affordability, and city-friendly driving dynamics.
- Kia Syros is designed to provide more interior space, better passenger comfort, and premium features for long journeys.
Kia has given the Syros a “Tall-Boy Stance”, which means it has a higher roofline, providing better headroom and making the cabin feel more spacious and airy.
2. Design and Exterior Comparison
The exterior design of an SUV determines its road presence and overall appeal. Let’s compare the design aspects of the Syros and Sonet.
Kia Sonet Design:
- Sporty and bold styling with Kia’s signature “Tiger-Nose” grille.
- Compact proportions, making it ideal for city driving and easy maneuverability.
- LED DRLs (Daytime Running Lights) and aggressive creases, giving it a modern and youthful look.
Kia Syros Design:
- Larger and more muscular stance, with a wider grille and a more upright profile.
- Bigger LED headlamps and tail lamps, making it look more premium.
- Higher ground clearance, offering better off-road capability compared to the Sonet.
Key Takeaways:
Kia Sonet has a sportier, urban-friendly design, making it perfect for city dwellers. Kia Syros has a larger and more premium design, offering a stronger road presence.
3. Front Row Space Comparison
The front-row space is crucial for the driver and co-passenger, ensuring comfort and ease of driving. Here’s a detailed comparison of Syros and Sonet’s front-row dimensions:
| Dimension (in mm) | Kia Syros | Kia Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Headroom | 1,030 mm | 1,005 mm |
| Legroom | 1,040 mm | 1,040 mm |
| Shoulder Room | 1,430 mm | 1,395 mm |
Detailed Analysis:
- Headroom: Kia Syros has 25mm more headroom than Sonet, making it a better option for taller drivers.
- Legroom: Both SUVs provide equal legroom, ensuring a comfortable driving experience.
- Shoulder Room: Kia Syros is 35mm wider, allowing more space for the driver and co-passenger.
Key Takeaways:
Syros provides better headroom, making it a great choice for taller individuals. More shoulder room in Syros ensures added comfort for front passengers.
4. Second Row Space Comparison
For those who frequently travel with family or friends, rear-seat comfort is essential. Let’s compare the rear-row space of Syros and Sonet.
| Dimension (in mm) | Kia Syros | Kia Sonet |
| Headroom | 1,005 mm | 985 mm |
| Legroom | 970-1,045 mm | 910 mm |
| Shoulder Room | 1,407 mm | 1,385 mm |
Detailed Analysis:
- Headroom: Syros offers 20mm more headroom, making it more comfortable for taller passengers.
- Legroom: Syros features sliding rear seats, allowing adjustable legroom from 970mm to 1,045mm, while Sonet has a fixed 910mm.
- Shoulder Room: Syros provides 22mm more shoulder space, making long journeys more comfortable for rear passengers.
Key Takeaways:
Syros has more headroom and shoulder room, making it ideal for family trips. Adjustable legroom in Syros provides added flexibility and comfort.
5. Comfort and Interior Features
Both SUVs come equipped with high-end features, but Syros offers extra premium features:
- Seat Material: Kia Syros offers premium leather upholstery, enhancing the cabin’s luxury feel.
- Rear Seat Sliding: A unique feature exclusive to Syros, allowing rear passengers to adjust seating positions.
- Ventilated Seats: Both SUVs offer ventilated front seats, but Syros provides better cooling efficiency.
6. Performance and Driving Experience
Kia Syros:
- Wider dimensions offer better stability.
- Superior suspension tuning makes it better for highway driving.
Kia Sonet:
- Compact size makes it agile and easy to drive in traffic.
- Lighter weight improves fuel efficiency.
Key Takeaways:
Syros is better for long highway journeys. Sonet is perfect for city driving due to its compact size.
7. Conclusion – Which SUV Should You Buy?
| Requirement | Best Choice |
| More Space and Comfort | Kia Syros |
| Compact and Fuel Efficient | Kia Sonet |
| Rear Seat Sliding Feature | Kia Syros |
| Budget-Friendly Option | Kia Sonet |
Final Verdict:
If you want an SUV with more space, premium features, and superior comfort, then Kia Syros is the perfect choice. If you prefer a compact, fuel-efficient, and budget-friendly SUV, then Kia Sonet is the better option.
Both SUVs offer great features, and your final decision depends on your specific needs and driving preferences.
