Kia India Launches Syros HTK(EX) SUV With Petrol and Diesel Options

Kia India has expanded its compact SUV portfolio with the introduction of the HTK(EX) variant to the Syros SUV lineup. The new trim was announced on January 16, 2026, and is positioned between existing variants to better align with customer demand and pricing expectations.

The HTK(EX) variant is priced at ₹9,89,000 for the petrol version and ₹10,63,900 for the diesel version, both ex-showroom.

Kia Syros HTK(EX): Price and Variant Details

Kia Syros HTK(EX) Price in India

• Petrol variant: ₹9,89,000 (ex-showroom)

• Diesel variant: ₹10,63,900 (ex-showroom)

Expanded Syros Trim Lineup

With the introduction of the HTK(EX), the total number of Syros variants now stands at seven.

Reason Behind the New Variant

According to Atul Sood, Senior Vice President and National Head of Sales and Marketing at Kia India, the decision to introduce the HTK(EX) trim was driven by customer feedback and market preferences.

Features and Equipment Offered

Exterior and Convenience Features

The Syros HTK(EX) is based on the HTK(O) trim and adds several premium features, including:

• LED daytime running lights

• LED headlamps

• LED taillamps

• 16-inch alloy wheels

Cabin and Technology Highlights

Key interior and technology upgrades include:

• Electric sunroof

• 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system

• Electrically adjustable and foldable outside rearview mirrors

• Rear parking camera with sensors

Safety Features and Crash Test Rating

Safety Package on Kia Syros HTK(EX)

The variant carries over 20 safety features as standard.

Key Safety Equipment

• Six airbags

• ABS with EBD

• Electronic Stability Control

• Hill Start Assist

• Vehicle Stability Management

Bharat NCAP Rating

The Kia Syros has received a 5-star rating from the Bharat New Car Assessment Program (BNCAP), positioning it among the safest offerings in its segment.

Powertrain Options and Platform

Engine and Platform Details

The HTK(EX) variant is offered with both petrol and diesel powertrains, providing broader choice compared to some rivals.

Architecture and Design Philosophy

• Built on Kia’s reinforced K1 platform

• Designed under Kia’s “Opposites United” design philosophy

Segment Positioning and Rivals

Kia Syros HTK(EX) Rivals in India

The Syros HTK(EX) competes in a crowded compact SUV segment that includes:

• Hyundai Exter

• Tata Punch

• Maruti Suzuki Fronx

• Nissan Magnite

At the ₹10 lakh price point, the variant directly rivals mid-range trims of these models.

Feature Comparison With Competitors

Technology and Comfort Comparison

• The 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system is larger than most displays offered by rivals at similar prices

• The electric sunroof is not standard across all competing models in this segment

• Full LED lighting (DRLs, headlamps and taillamps) enhances premium appeal

Safety Comparison Across Rivals

Crash Test Ratings Explained

• Kia Syros: 5-star BNCAP

• Tata Punch: 5-star Global NCAP

• Nissan Magnite: 4-star Global NCAP (2020 test)

• Hyundai Exter and Maruti Suzuki Fronx: Tested under different protocols

Standard Safety Features Across Segment

All models offer six airbags, ABS with EBD and electronic stability control either as standard or optional.
The Syros HTK(EX) includes these as standard, along with Hill Start Assist and Vehicle Stability Management.

Powertrain Availability Comparison

Petrol and Diesel Options

• Syros HTK(EX): Petrol and diesel available

• Hyundai Exter & Tata Punch: Primarily petrol

• Maruti Suzuki Fronx & Nissan Magnite: Petrol options offered

This gives the Syros an advantage for buyers seeking diesel power at this price level.

Kia India Manufacturing and Market Presence

Kia India Operations Overview

• Manufacturing facility located in Anantapur District, Andhra Pradesh

• Facility established in 2017

• Production began in August 2019

• Annual capacity: 300,000 units

Sales and Exports

• Around 1.5 million vehicles dispatched

• Over 1.2 million sold domestically

• More than 367,000 exported

Network and Connected Cars

• Nine vehicles currently on sale in India

• 821 touchpoints across 369 cities

• Over 495,000 connected cars on Indian roads

Final Takeaway

The Kia Syros HTK(EX) strengthens Kia’s compact SUV lineup by offering premium features, strong safety credentials, and both petrol and diesel options at a competitive price point. With a 5-star BNCAP rating, large touchscreen, sunroof, and full LED lighting, the new variant is positioned to appeal to buyers considering feature-rich mid-range trims in the sub-₹10 lakh SUV segment.