Kia Syros Vs Skoda Kylaq: A Detailed Comparison Of Features, Pricing & Performance

Kia India recently unveiled its much-awaited Syros compact SUV, slated for release in 2025. Positioned as a competitor to popular sub-compact SUVs like the Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, and Maruti Suzuki Brezza, the Syros will offer an exciting new choice for Indian buyers. It’s the second sub-compact SUV from Kia, following the success of the Sonet. As the Syros gets ready to go on sale, let's compare it with the Skoda Kylaq, a key rival in the segment, in terms of variants, pricing, dimensions, features, and engine performance.

Variant and Pricing Comparison
The Kia Syros will be available in six variants: HTK, HTK (O), HTK Plus, HTX, HTX Plus, and HTX Plus (O). While the exact pricing for the Syros is yet to be announced, it will be revealed at the Bharat Mobility Show in January 2025, with bookings opening on January 3, 2025, and deliveries commencing in February 2025.

On the other hand, the Skoda Kylaq comes in four variants: Classic, Signature, Signature Plus, and Prestige. The entry-level Classic variant is priced at ₹7.89 lakh (ex-showroom) and comes with a 6-speed manual gearbox. The Signature variant is priced between ₹9.59 lakh and ₹10.59 lakh, offering both manual and automatic transmission options. The Signature Plus variant offers both manual and 6-speed torque converter automatic gearboxes, priced at ₹11.40 lakh and ₹12.40 lakh, respectively. The top variant, Prestige, comes with a similar choice of gearboxes, priced at ₹13.35 lakh for the manual and ₹14.4 lakh for the automatic (both ex-showroom).

Dimensions: A Closer Look
Both SUVs share the same overall length of 3,995 mm, but the Kia Syros is slightly wider and taller than the Skoda Kylaq. The Syros measures 1,805 mm in width, 22 mm more than the Kylaq's 1,783 mm, giving it a broader stance. It is also 61 mm taller, standing at 1,680 mm, compared to the Kylaq's height of 1,619 mm. This extra height may contribute to a more spacious cabin in the Syros.

The wheelbase of the Kylaq measures 2,556 mm, slightly longer than the Syros’ 2,550 mm. While this small difference in wheelbase might provide a marginal advantage in terms of cabin space, both vehicles will likely offer similar comfort levels. The ground clearance of the Kylaq is confirmed to be 189 mm, but the ground clearance of the Syros has yet to be revealed.

Features Comparison: Technology and Comfort
When it comes to technology and luxury features, the Kia Syros certainly stands out. It boasts dual 12.3-inch displays for the infotainment and instrument cluster, providing a modern, seamless experience. It also comes with a 5-inch screen for the automatic climate control, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and over-the-air (OTA) updates for the infotainment system.

Other notable features in the Syros include four ventilated seats, a reclining and sliding second-row seat with a centre armrest and 60:40 split-folding function, and a powered driver’s seat. For audio enthusiasts, the Syros features an 8-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and a dual-pane panoramic sunroof that enhances the cabin's premium feel. Additionally, the Syros comes with advanced safety features such as a 360-degree camera, Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), front and rear parking sensors, and six airbags.

In comparison, the Skoda Kylaq comes equipped with an 8.0-inch fully digital cluster and a 10.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system. While it offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 6-speaker Canton sound system, the features are generally less advanced than those in the Syros. The Kylaq does, however, come with powered front seats, ventilated front seats, ambient lighting, and a single-pane sunroof. Safety features on the Kylaq include six airbags, ABS with EBD, ISO-FIX child seat mounts, and a reverse parking camera with sensors.

While both vehicles come with ventilated seats, the Syros edges out with four ventilated seats, a more advanced sound system, and a luxurious dual-pane sunroof. Additionally, the Syros offers more comprehensive safety features, making it the more premium option overall.

Engine and Performance Comparison
When it comes to engine options, the Skoda Kylaq is powered by a 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine, producing 115 hp and 178 Nm of torque. It is offered with two gearbox options: a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque converter automatic.

On the other hand, the Kia Syros offers two engine options: a 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine, delivering 120 hp and 172 Nm of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DCT gearbox. Additionally, the Syros will also offer a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine generating 115 hp and 250 Nm of torque, available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic.

The Syros, with its slightly more powerful petrol engine and additional diesel option, gives buyers more choice in terms of performance. Its 7-speed DCT transmission also offers a smoother driving experience compared to the Kylaq’s more traditional gearbox options.

Both the Kia Syros and the Skoda Kylaq offer strong competition in the sub-compact SUV segment. While the Kylaq excels in pricing and delivers a solid set of features, the Kia Syros stands out with its more premium offerings, such as dual 12.3-inch displays, a Harman Kardon sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced safety technologies like the 360-degree camera and Level 2 ADAS. If you’re looking for a vehicle that offers a more luxurious and tech-savvy experience, the Syros is the better option. However, if budget is a key consideration, the Kylaq remains a strong contender.