Every once in a while, a car comes along that makes you wonder whether its predecessor was simply waiting for the right powertrain. The Kia Syros EV is one such car. When the Syros first arrived in 2025, its bold styling, spacious cabin and impressive technology made a strong impression, although its ride quality and divisive looks left room for improvement. Electrification, as it turns out, has brought the package together rather beautifully.
Visually, the Syros EV stays close to its petrol-powered sibling, and that is a good thing. Its upright proportions, distinctive lighting elements and squared-off silhouette give it a personality of its own in a segment increasingly populated by SUVs that look as though they attended the same design school. There are no unnecessary futuristic flourishes or attempts to make it look like a spaceship. Instead, the Syros EV builds on an already distinctive design, proving that an electric car need not look dramatically different to announce its intentions.
The transition to electric power has also brought meaningful engineering changes. The battery raises the cabin floor by 10 mm, while suspension revisions increase ground clearance by 7 mm, helping preserve everyday usability on India’s less-than-perfect roads. Under the floor sits either a 51.4 kWh battery producing 173 bhp and 255 Nm, with a claimed range of 526 km, or a 42 kWh unit producing 147 bhp and 255 Nm, with a claimed range of 443 km.
On the road, the Syros EV feels immediately approachable. Power delivery is smooth and linear, making it particularly well suited to city driving, where effortless acceleration and predictable responses matter more than spectacular performance figures. It gathers speed without fuss, slips through traffic with ease and feels relaxed on the highway. Sport mode sharpens the throttle response and adds weight to the steering, should the occasional overtake demand a little more urgency.
The bigger improvement, however, is the ride. The EV’s revised damping delivers a noticeably more composed experience. Although its additional 250 kg is apparent during quick changes of direction, it also lends the car a reassuring sense of stability. The result is a more mature SUV that feels better suited to everyday Indian driving.
Inside, the Syros EV continues to play to its strengths. The modern dashboard, crisp twin-screen arrangement and thoughtfully laid-out cabin create an environment that feels contemporary without becoming intimidating. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a comprehensive ADAS suite and updated materials add to the premium ambience. Ventilated seats in both rows are particularly welcome in warm weather, while the intuitive displays make accessing essential information straightforward.
Ergonomics and practicality remain highlights. The sliding and reclining rear bench allows occupants to tailor their seating position, while generous legroom means even taller passengers can settle in comfortably. Numerous storage spaces accommodate the everyday clutter of modern life, and the usefully shaped 465-litre boot offers ample room for luggage, shopping or a family weekend away.
Priced from ₹ 13.49 lakh to ₹ 19.99 lakh, ex-showroom, the Kia Syros EV enters an increasingly competitive electric SUV market with a compelling mix of distinctive design, generous equipment, genuine space and improved ride comfort. More than simply giving the Syros an electric heart, Kia has found a powertrain that complements its personality. The result is a thoughtfully engineered, comfortable and practical electric SUV that feels cohesive. Sometimes, the best evolution is not about changing everything. It is about finally getting the important things right.
