Kia’s new smaller SUV, shorter than 4 meters and codenamed AY, will bear the commercial name Syros and not Clavis as some earlier information suggested.
Sources say that Kia did consider the Clavis name for the new compact SUV, but later dropped it since the Carens and Carnival MPV models start with a ‘C’. Since the Syros will be marketed as a ‘compact SUV’, the brand has decided to stick with its current nomenclature by naming its SUVs with the initial letter ‘S’, such as the Seltos and Sonet.
The Syros is expected to go on sale at the beginning of 2025 (although its premiere could take place at the end of this year), and the offer will include several powertrain options, namely SUS and EV. Models with SUS engines are expected to go on sale before the EV, with unofficial mentions of a 1.2 liter naturally aspirated petrol, a 1.0 liter turbo petrol and a 1.5 liter diesel. The range will include 5- and 6-speed manual gearboxes, as well as a 7-speed automatic with a double clutch.
Details about the electric version are not yet known.
This compact SUV is based on the brand’s Design 2.0 philosophy, which is inspired by models such as the EV9 and Carnival.
Regarding the interior, a two-spoke multifunctional steering wheel and two screens are expected, while the equipment should also include LED lighting, an electric sunroof, a 360-degree camera, automatic wipers, smartphone connection and a premium audio system.
The Syros will sit between the Sonnet and Seltos in Kia’s Indian lineup, and to differentiate itself from the Sonnet, it will be positioned as a lifestyle vehicle with more rugged styling and a blockier design. However, it won’t get 4×4 drive.
Kia India plans to produce close to 100,000 units annually, with 80 percent of the range equipped with internal combustion engines. Some of it will be intended for export.
Prepared by: Ivan Mitić – Autoblog.rs
Source: autoblog.rs
