New Kia Compact SUV teased with design inspiration from the EV9 and the Carnival!

Kia has dropped a new teaser for its upcoming Compact SUV which boasts a boxy design with a tall-stance. This upcoming SUV will be positioned between Sonet and Seltos with launch expected to take place in early 2025.

Kia Compact SUV: Design

Kia’s new SUV reflects Kia’s latest Opposites United design language, giving this compact SUV a bold and assertive appearance. With its tall stance, upright hood, and aggressive front grille, the Clavis projects a powerful presence on the road. Equipped with stylish diamond-cut 16-inch alloy wheels, and an optional upgrade to 17-inch wheels, the SUV offers a more dynamic look. The rear sports EV9-inspired LED tail lamps, enhancing its sophisticated aesthetic. Measuring over 4 meters in length, this SUV is larger than the Kia Sonet, providing increased practicality with a roomier cabin and more substantial boot capacity.

While we don’t have an official look at the interiors, from what we can make from the spy shots, the cabin features twin 10.25-inch displays – one for the infotainment system and other for the fully digital instrument cluster – reminiscent of the setup in the Kia Seltos. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto ensure seamless connectivity, while a dual-tone dashboard, new 4-spoke steering wheel seen on new Kia models sold internationally like EV4, K4, etc; and panoramic sunroof add to the premium feel. Kia’s Compact SUV offers full white or black leatherette upholstery, exuding elegance and comfort for an upscale cabin experience.

Kia Compact SUV: Powertrains

Kia’s new SUV is expected to offer the same engine options as the Sonet, catering to a variety of driving preferences:

Engine	1.2 L 4 Cylinder Petrol	1.0 L 3 Cylinder Turbo Petrol	1.5 L 4 Cylinder Diesel
Drivetrain	FWD	FWD	FWD
Power	81.80 BHP	118.35 BHP	113 BHP
Torque	115 NM	172 NM	250 NM
Transmission Choice	6 Speed MT	6 Speed iMT, 7 Speed DCT	6 Speed MT / iMT / AT

Additionally, the electric version of the Clavis will feature a battery pack likely between 40 – 50 kWh, offering a range of approximately 450 – 500 KM.

Kia Compact SUV: Features and Launch

Kia’s new SUV comes loaded with features designed to elevate comfort, safety, and ease of use. Comfort-focused features like ventilated seats, powered driver seat, automatic climate control, and one touch up/down for all windows that enhances the driving experience. On the safety front, Level 2 ADAS with functions like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking for enhanced security on the road. Other safety features include six airbags, an electric parking brake with auto hold, 360 Surround View Camera, etc.

Additionally, Kia’s new SUV will be equipped with multiple drive and traction modes for adapting to diverse driving conditions, while hill descent control ensures stability on steep declines.

Upon Launch, it’s possible Kia’s new Compact SUV could be called Syros given they had trademarked the nameplate months ago, while also following the brand’s “S” naming nomenclature, you know, Sonet and Seltos. While the SUV will compete with the likes of Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV 3XO, Kia Sonet, Maruti Brezza and Fronx, and recently launched Skoda Kylaq. The SUV is expected to debut in December with launch expected to take place in early 2025.

Final Thoughts

The upcoming Kia compact SUV, possibly named Syros, looks set to make a bold entrance with its design elements inspired by the EV9 and Carnival, and a premium feature set tailored for the modern driver. With feaures like twin 10.25-inch displays and Level 2 ADAS, along with spacious cabin for better comfort, Kia is positioning this SUV to be a strong contender among rivals like the Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, and Maruti Brezza. If Kia can bring this impressive package at a competitive price, the Syros could easily become a popular choice in the compact SUV segment.