• Kia is set to launch its compact SUV, 'Syros', in India next year, marking a significant milestone in the company's journey.
• The Syros SUV will be available in two trims and is equipped with advanced safety features.
• Despite rising commodity prices and supply chain-related costs, Kia India has announced a price hike of up to 2% across its lineup from January 1.
• Kia's commitment to the Indian market is evident from its sales figures, with the company having sold 1.6 million units in India and overseas markets combined to date.

South Korea's second-largest carmaker, Kia, is set to make a significant impact on the Indian market with the launch of its compact SUV, 'Syros', next year. The unveiling of the new model in India marks a significant milestone in Kia's journey in the country. The Syros SUV will be available in two trims, one with a 1.0-liter gasoline turbocharged engine and the other with a 1.5-litre diesel engine.

The introduction of the compact car in India is part of a broader strategy to expand its presence in the Asia-Pacific region, Latin America, and the Middle East. The new model is equipped with advanced safety features such as front collision avoidance, lane-keeping assistance, surround view monitor, and driver awareness warning systems. However, the company has not yet disclosed the vehicle's price.

Kia's Strategy Amid Rising Costs

In addition to the launch of the new model, Kia India has also announced a price hike of up to 2% across its entire lineup, effective from January 1. The decision to increase prices is primarily due to rising commodity prices and escalating supply chain-related costs. Despite these challenges, Kia is committed to absorbing a significant portion of the cost increase to minimize the financial impact on its customers.

Hardeep Singh Brar, senior vice president, sales and marketing, Kia India, stated, At Kia, we are committed to delivering exceptional, technologically advanced vehicles of the highest quality to our valued customers. However, due to the persistent rise in commodity prices, unfavorable exchange rates, and increased input costs, a necessary price adjustment has become unavoidable.

Kia's Commitment to the Indian Market

Kia's commitment to the Indian market is evident from its sales figures. The company has sold 1.6 million units in India and overseas markets combined to date. Its best-selling innovation, Seltos, has surpassed 670,000-unit sales, followed by Sonet with over 480,000 units, Carens with 214,400 units, and Carnival with over 15,000 units.

The launch of the Syros SUV comes at a time when the Indian automotive market is witnessing a shift towards SUVs and electric vehicles. Other carmakers like Maruti Suzuki and Mercedes-Benz are also gearing up to launch their electric vehicles in India in 2025.