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It’s official—Kia’s upcoming compact SUV will be called the Syros, not the rumoured Clavis, as earlier speculated. The South Korean carmaker confirmed the name with a teaser splashed across its social media handles and YouTube channel. And, just to keep the hype alive, there’s a fresh teaser making the rounds.

Positioned snugly between the Sonet and Seltos, the Syros is set to carve out an entirely new niche in the SUV world. Like Skoda’s game with the Kylaq,  it won’t just borrow from its siblings—it’s here to up the game.

While the teaser doesn’t give much away, a keen eye reveals some intriguing details. First up, the panoramic sunroof—yes, that’s a big tick in the premium box. Then there are the Tri-LED projector headlamps, stacked vertically and flanked by sharp L-shaped DRLs, which give the Syros an aggressive face.

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If you’re thinking it might take inspiration from the flagship EV9, you’re probably onto something. Kia’s signature Tiger Nose grille gets a rework, and the Syros adopts a boxy, muscular design that screams purpose. The flat roofline, flared wheel arches, clamshell bonnet, and sharp creases add to its bold character, while features like L-shaped LED taillights integrated into the D-pillars and dual-tone alloys tie the whole look together. Sporty and functional? Absolutely.

While Kia hasn’t spoken about what’ll be under the bonnet, it’s a safe bet the Syros will borrow its engine and gearbox options from the Sonet. Here’s what you can expect:

The Kia Syros might be offered with three engine options, starting with a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 81.8 bhp and 11.7 kgm of torque, with a top speed of around 150 kph. The 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine delivers 118 bhp and 17.5 kgm of torque, enabling it to reach approximately 180 kph. For those seeking diesel power, the 1.5-litre engine generates 114 bhp and 25.5 kgm of torque, offering a top speed of about 170 kph. These options promise a balance of performance and efficiency to cater to diverse driving preferences.

Transmission choices are likely to include a 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, 6-speed AMT, and a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic. The variety ensures there’s something for every kind of driver.

The Syros is shaping up to be more than just another SUV—it’s Kia throwing its hat into a new ring, aiming for a blend of practicality, style, and tech. With a launch expected in early 2025, this is one to watch.