Kia is betting big on its upcoming Syros sub-4 metre SUV, which will compete against the Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, Maruti Brezza, Mahindra XUV300, and the upcoming Skoda Kylaq. It is one of the upcoming Kia SUVs planned for 2025. Its price announcement will be made in February, following its public debut at the 2025 Bharat Mobility Show in January.
Speaking to an online media publicationGwanggu Lee, Managing Director at Kia India, revealed that the company believes the Kia Syros will increase its total sales by around 18 percent, reaching 300,000 vehicles next year. Currently, buyers prefer larger, feature-loaded SUVs, which contribute nearly 54 percent of total passenger vehicle (PV) sales in the country. He also stated that Kia India will continue to expand its SUV product portfolio, as there is significant potential for small and compact SUVs. In 2025, the South Korean automaker plans to launch five new SUVs, including the Syros, updated Carens, Carens EV, new-generation Seltos with a hybrid powertrain, and the Sonet EV.
Kia Syros
The Syros compact SUV will offer two powertrains – a 120bhp 1.0L turbo petrol and a 116bhp 1.5L diesel. It is the most premium, feature-loaded, and comfortable offering in its segment. The Syros comes with several segment-first features, including a 30-inch Trinity Panoramic Screen (comprising a 12.3-inch HD touchscreen, a 12.3-inch LCD cluster, and a 5-inch fully automatic AC control display), a Level 2 ADAS suite, OTA software updates, sliding and reclining ventilated rear seats, and flush-fitting door handles.
Kia Carens Facelift/EV
The Kia Carens, one of the brand’s top-selling models, is set to receive its first midlife update in 2025. The compact MPV is expected to feature subtle cosmetic changes and feature upgrades, while the engine lineup will likely remain unchanged. This means the 2025 Kia Carens facelift will continue with the 1.5L NA petrol, 1.5L turbo petrol, and 1.5L diesel engines. Interestingly, an electric powertrain might also be part of the update. The Kia Carens EV is expected to feature a 45kWh battery and an electric motor similar to the one planned for the upcoming Hyundai Creta EV.
New-Gen Kia Seltos Hybrid
The Kia Seltos, the carmaker’s best-selling model in India, is set to enter its second generation next year. The most significant update might be the introduction of a 141bhp 1.6L hybrid powertrain with an AWD system. The existing 1.5L petrol and 1.5L diesel engines will also remain available. Design and interior updates are likely to be inspired by the Kia EV5 and EV3, respectively. The SUV is expected to feature newly-designed LED headlamps and taillamps, revised front and rear bumpers, and new alloy wheels.
Kia Sonet EV
Media reports suggest that the Kia Sonet EV could also be part of the brand’s new SUV strategy. If launched, this compact electric SUV might use the 45kWh battery pack and electric motor from the forthcoming Hyundai Creta EV, delivering an expected range of around 450km. Similar to its ICE counterpart, the electric iteration will be equipped with premium features such as a Bose sound system, dual 10.2-inch displays, ventilated front seats, and more.
