Kia Syros vs Škoda Kylaq: Compact SUVs with Big Promises

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Introduction: Two New Players Kia Syros and skoda Kylaq in the Compact SUV Segment

India’s compact SUV market has welcomed two exciting new contenders in 2025: the Kia Syros and the Škoda Kylaq. Both models aim to blend premium features with practicality at competitive prices, but they approach the segment with distinct philosophies.

If you’re torn between the stylish Syros and the European-engineered Kylaq, this detailed comparison will help you make an informed decision.

1. Design and Road Presence

Kia Syros Launched in India
Kia Syros Launched in India

Kia Syros embraces a bold, boxy design inspired by the EV9. The Digital Tiger Face grille, vertical LED DRLs, and L-shaped tail lamps give it a futuristic stance.

Front three-quarter view of the 2025 Škoda Kylaq in Lime Green, showcasing bold grille and LED DRLs
The Škoda Kylaq’s striking front stance features a bold grille, split LED headlamps, and sculpted bumper lines for a commanding road presence.

Škoda Kylaq, on the other hand, exudes European flair with its sharp cuts, Crystalline LED headlamps, blacked-out grille, and muscular proportions.

FeatureKia SyrosŠkoda Kylaq
Design ThemeEV9-inspired, upright SUVModern-solid, Euro-sophisticated
HeadlampsLED (higher variants)Crystalline LED Projectors
WheelsUp to 17-inch alloysR17 Dual-Tone Alloys (Prestige)
SunroofPanoramic (HTX+ & above)Electric Sunroof (all variants)

2. Engine and Performance

Comparison between the engines ofthe Kia Syros and Skoda Kylaq
Comparison between the engines ofthe Kia Syros and Skoda Kylaq

Kia Syros offers both 1.0L Turbo Petrol and 1.5L Diesel options, with Manual, DCT, and AT transmissions. It caters to both performance and efficiency seekers.

Škoda Kylaq is powered solely by a 1.0L TSI petrol engine mated to a 6-speed MT or Tiptronic AT, known for refinement and fuel efficiency.

SpecsKia SyrosŠkoda Kylaq
Engine Options1.0L Turbo Petrol, 1.5L Diesel1.0L TSI Petrol
TransmissionMT, DCT, AT6MT, 6AT Tiptronic
Max Power~120 PS114 hp (85 kW)
Fuel EfficiencyDiesel: High, Petrol: ModerateMT: 19.68 km/l, AT: 19.05 km/l

3. Interiors and Comfort

Interior dashboard of Škoda Kylaq with digital cockpit and infotainment screen
Inside, the Kylaq offers a digital cockpit, floating touchscreen, and bold green accents for a youthful yet premium vibe.

Both SUVs aim to deliver premium interiors with high-tech interfaces and useful comforts.

FeaturesKia SyrosŠkoda Kylaq
Touchscreen10.25-inch (HTX & above)25.6 cm Floating Touchscreen
Instrument ClusterDigital (Top variants)20.32 cm Virtual Cockpit
Ventilated SeatsYes (HTX & above)Yes (Signature+ & Prestige)
UpholsteryLeatherette (HTX+)Leatherette (Signature+ & Prestige)
Boot SpaceNot specified446L (Best-in-Class)
Interior of the Kia Syros
Interior of the Kia Syros

4. Features and Technology

front of the Kia Syros
fornt of the kia Syros

The Syros pulls ahead with ADAS Level 2 in its top variant, whereas Kylaq focuses on usability and smart daily-driver tech.

Tech/Safety HighlightsKia Syros (HTX+ (O))Škoda Kylaq (Prestige)
ADASYes, Level 2 (HTX+ Optional)No
360-degree CameraYes (Top variant only)No
Connected Car TechKia Connect (HTX & above)Škoda Play Store + Smart Connectivity
Safety Rating (India)5-Star Bharat NCAPNot yet rated
Airbags6 Standard6 Standard

5. Pricing and Variants

Škoda Kylaq driving on a scenic road, front view with full headlights
Designed for Indian roads, the Kylaq blends urban agility with long-distance comfort—seen here on a highway escape.
ModelStarting Price (Ex-Showroom)Top Variant PriceFuel Options
Kia Syros₹8 Lakh₹14 LakhPetrol & Diesel
Škoda Kylaq₹8.25 Lakh₹13.99 Lakh (Signature+)Petrol Only

The Syros offers broader drivetrain variety and ADAS tech, while Kylaq stays focused with a more streamlined lineup.

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

Comparison between the Kia Syros and Skoda Kylaq

Choose Kia Syros if:

  • You need diesel engine options
  • You want ADAS Level 2 safety tech
  • You prefer a panoramic sunroof and digital cluster
Side profile of Škoda Kylaq 2025 SUV with dual-tone alloys and muscular body design
With clean character lines and premium alloy wheels, the Kylaq exudes strength and modernity from every angle.

Choose Škoda Kylaq if:

  • You trust European build quality and road manners
  • You want a spacious boot and clever cabin features
  • You value fuel efficiency and a mature design

Both compact SUVs are well-equipped, stylish, and suited for Indian buyers. Your choice depends on your driving needs and preferences.

Rear three-quarter view of Škoda Kylaq showing LED tail lamps and sporty rear bumper
The Kylaq’s rear design features C-shaped LED tail lamps and sculpted bumpers that reflect Škoda’s sharp European styling.

FAQs

Q. Does the Kia Syros come with a diesel engine? Yes, the Syros offers a 1.5L CRDi diesel with both manual and automatic options.

Q. Which SUV has ADAS features? Only the Kia Syros HTX+ (O) comes equipped with Level 2 ADAS.

Q. What’s the boot space of the Škoda Kylaq? The Kylaq offers 446L of boot space, best-in-class among its rivals.

Q. Which SUV is more affordable? The base variant of the Syros is slightly cheaper, starting at ₹8 lakh.

Q. Which one is better for long drives? Both are capable, but the Syros diesel and the Kylaq’s 1.0 TSI AT are both excellent for highways.

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