Kia India is preparing to expand its electric vehicle portfolio with the launch of , which is likely going to be launched in August. Positioned as the brand’s most affordable electric offering in India, the compact SUV will target the mass-market compact electric SUV segment and take on rivals such as the Tata Nexon EV, Mahindra XUV 3XO EV and higher variants of the Tata Punch EV.
Ahead of its expected debut, the Syros EV has once again been spotted testing on Indian roads, offering a closer look at some of the changes that will differentiate it from the internal combustion-engined (ICE) model.
Familiar design with EV-specific touches
Despite heavy camouflage, the test vehicle retains the Syros’ upright proportions, boxy styling and tallboy stance. The biggest giveaway is the charging port, which is integrated into the left front fender above the wheel arch.
The electric SUV is also expected to receive redesigned front and rear bumpers, aero-optimised alloy wheels and a handful of EV-specific styling elements while maintaining an appearance that remains closely related to the petrol and diesel versions. Spy images further suggest subtle revisions to the rear bumper and roof rails, while bright green brake calipers hint at a sportier visual treatment.
The vertically stacked LED headlamps, L-shaped daytime running lights and vertically oriented LED tail-lamps appear to have been carried over from the standard Syros. Test mules have also revealed hardware for a 360-degree camera system and sensors that indicate the presence of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
Cabin likely to mirror ICE model
While the interior has not been revealed, the Syros EV is expected to retain the dashboard layout and premium feature set of the ICE-powered model. Buyers can expect the dual 12.3-inch display setup, panoramic sunroof, ventilated front and rear seats, wireless phone charging and connected car technology.
The electric version is also likely to introduce EV-exclusive features such as Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality. It could also receive unique graphics for the digital displays, along with revised upholstery and trim finishes to distinguish it from the standard SUV.
Battery and powertrain
The Syros EV is expected to continue using Kia’s K1 platform, which also underpins the ICE-powered Syros. Internationally, the same architecture supports the Hyundai Inster EV, making battery packs of around 42kWh and 49kWh the most likely options for the India-spec model.
The electric SUV is expected to feature a front-wheel-drive layout. If Kia adopts the larger battery pack from the Inster, the Syros EV could offer a driving range comparable to the global model, although the final ARAI-certified figures for India may differ.
DC fast-charging capability is also expected, with overseas versions of the platform capable of replenishing the battery from 10 to 80 per cent in around 30 minutes under ideal conditions.
Expected price and rivals
The Kia Syros EV is likely to be priced between Rs 15 lakh and Rs 20 lakh (ex-showroom), making it the brand’s entry point into India’s mainstream electric SUV market.
Once launched, it will join the Kia EV6, EV9 and Carens Clavis EV in the company’s growing EV portfolio while competing directly with the Tata Nexon EV and Mahindra XUV 3XO EV.