Upcoming Kia SUVs In India: Syros EV To Seltos Hybrid
Kia now has a strong presence in India's mass-market segments. The second-generation Seltos, its latest launch here, is selling well. The strengthen its foothold further, the carmaker has at least five launches planned for the coming months. These will include EVs, hybrids and internal combustion products.
The Syros, launched in 2025, is currently available with two engine options- a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol and a 1.5-litre diesel. The internal combustion engine (ICE) version has seen a relatively muted response. The carmaker is now working on an electric version of it.
The Syros EV has already been spotted testing multiple times. These sightings indicate that the design will stand close to that of the internal combustion version. EV-specific styling elements like a closed-off front grille, redesigned bumpers, and aero-optimized wheels remain a strong possibility. Inside, the Syros EV will have subtle-yet-functional updates. We may see minor styling changes and the inclusion of more features. Details on this front, remain sparse at the time of writing.
The Syros EV is expected to come with two battery options- 42 kWh and 49 kWh. It is likely to have a claimed driving range of around 400 km. Power, torque and other details of this powertrain remain unclear at the moment. Market launch is expected in the coming months, and this will become Kia’s second mass-market EV in India. It will compete with the likes of Tata Nexon.EV and MG Windsor.
The Sonet enjoys strong acceptance in the Indian market. Originally launched in 2020, it received a facelift in 2024. The second-generation is expected to arrive in 2027. The project is reportedly codenamed QY2E. It will be based on the same platform as the outgoing Syros (upgraded K1) and will likely feature a strong hybrid powertrain as well.
The next-generation will get fresh styling, improved cabin experience and a longer list of features. We expect the equipment array to be brought in-line with that of the second-generation Hyundai Venue. If so, the Sonet’s 10.25-inch displays will be replaced with 12.3-inch units. Additionally, the level 1 ADAS suite of the outgoing model will likely be upgraded to a level 2 suite.
Transition to the Syros platform will improve the overall safety and crashworthiness of the new-generation Sonet. The platform will also address the ‘rear-seat space constraints’ of the outgoing model.
We expect the new Sonet to use the same set of engines as the outgoing car- 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol, 1.0L turbocharged petrol and 1.5L diesel, offered with both manual and automatic transmissions. Additionally, Kia is reported to be developing a strong hybrid powertrain for the Sonet, based on a 1.2L petrol engine. This is speculated to join the lineup in 2028 or 2029.
The new Seltos has been selling exceptionally well in India. It is now available in 10 trims, including GT and X-Lines. The carmaker will soon add new top trims to the SUV. These will include both GT line and X line variants.
Called the GTX+ and X Line (O), these will add even more features to the vehicle, like an integrated dashcam, more ADAS features, air purifier and more. The GTX+ variant will be offered with 1.5-litre turbo petrol and 1.5-litre turbo diesel engines. Market launch is expected around the festive season.
The second-generation Seltos is now being offered with three engine options- 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol, 1.5 turbocharged petrol and 1.5L diesel. Kia is said to be working on a 1.5L strong hybrid petrol engine for use on models including the Seltos. This setup will likely excel with its fuel efficiency. Market launch is expected in early 2027.
And finally, Kia will also launch a premium three-row SUV in India by the end of this year. The Sorento, already sold in multiple global markets, will soon be brought to India as well. It will retain much of the international model’s design. It will come with a bold grille design, vertically stacked LED headlamps, and an upright design.
The cabin will have a modern, tech-heavy design. The feature list will include a large touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument cluster, ventilated seats, ADAS, and several other features. More importantly, the Sorento will feature a strong hybrid powertrain. It will have a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine at its centre.