Favoured for their styling, practicality and affordability, the compact SUVs are becoming increasingly popular among Indian buyers. The sub-4 meter SUV segment already offers multiple choices, and the competition is set to get fiercer in 2025 with the arrival of three all-new models. Kia Syros and Skoda Kylaq are set to hit roads in early weeks of February, while the new-generation Hyundai Venue will arrive in towards the end of 2025. Maruti Suzuki will introduce the updated Fronx with a new strong hybrid powertrains. Let’s delve into some key details of these upcoming compact SUV models.
Kia Syros
Kia Syros is the premium subcompact SUV from the South Korean automaker, which will go on sale on 1st February with the official price announcement. It will come in six trims, namely, HTK, HTK (O), HTK+, HTX, HTX+ and HTX+ (O). The SUV’s engine setup includes a 1.0L turbo petrol and a 1.5L diesel, delivering power worth 120bhp with 172Nm and 116bhp with 250Nm, respectively. Transmission choices include a 6-speed manual (standard), a 6-speed torque convertor automatic (with diesel engine only) and a 7-speed DCT automatic (with petrol engine only). The higher automatic variants will be available with the paddle shifters.
Kia Syros is the most flexible, spacious and premium car in its segment. The compact SUV comes with features such as a dual 12.3-inch displays (for infotainment and instrument cluster), a 5-inch climate control screen, wireless smartphone connectivity, wireless phone charging, reclining and sliding second row seats with centre armrest, an 8-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, six airbags, dual pane panoramic sunroof, Level 2 ADAS and many more.
Skoda Kylaq
Skoda Auto has already revealed the prices, variants, features and engine specifications of the all-new Kylaq compact SUV. Deliveries of the model are slated to begin nationwide from 27th January 2025. The Kylaq model lineup comes in four trims – Classic, Signature, Signature+ and Prestige, and seven colour options – Deep Black, Brilliant Silver, Tornado Red, Lava Blue, Carbon Steel, Candy White and Olive Gold.
The Skoda Kylaq is being offered in a single 1.0L turbo petrol engine and two gearbox options – a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque convertor automatic. This motor pushes out a maximum power of 115bhp and 178Nm of torque. This compact SUV is claimed to accelerate 0 to 100kmph in 10.5 seconds. The top-end Prestige automatic trim gets paddle shifters. Prices of the petrol manual variants fall within the range of Rs 7.89 lakh – Rs 13.35 lakh. The petrol automatic variants are priced from Rs 10.59 lakh to Rs 14.40 lakh (all, ex-showroom).
Maruti Fronx Strong Hybrid
Maruti Fronx subcompact SUV has been a volume generator for the Indo-Japanese automaker since its market launch. Now, the company is planning to give a major update to its top-selling model by introducing its own strong hybrid powertrain. Maruti Suzuki is reportedly working on a new series strong hybrid system for its mass-market vehicles, and the updated Fronx will be the first one to feature it.
The 2025 Maruti Fronx facelift will receive the Swift’s 1.2L Z-Series petrol engine paired to the strong hybrid tech, delivering a mileage over 35kmpl. If media reports are to be believed, the new Fronx could be the brand’s second model to come with the ADAS suite, following its debut on the e Vitara electric midsize SUV. Minimal changes are expected to be made to its design and interior.
New-Gen Hyundai Venue
The South Korean automaker has started testing the second-generation Hyundai Venue in the country. The SUV’s all-new model (codenamed QU2i) will make its debut towards the end of 2025. Hyundai’s Talegaon manufacturing facility will serve as production hub of the 2025 Hyundai Venue. Details of the new-gen model are limited. Though, it’s expected to receive major upgrades inside and out.
Inside, the dashboard could be redesigned along with the switchgears, steering wheel and seats. The ADAS suite might also be updated. The new Venue is expected to come with the larger displays, better material quality and several new features. Rumour has it that Hyundai might equip the new Venue with a panoramic sunroof. Under the hood, the compact SUV will continue to feature the 1.0L turbo petrol, 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol and 1.5L diesel engines. Existing transmissions options are also likely to be retained.
