
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- The Kia Syros offers two engine options with HTK (O) variant: 1.0-litre turbo petrol and 1.5-litre diesel unit
- The Skoda Kylaq is available only with a 1.0-litre TSI petrol unit
- Kia Syros HTK (O) is priced at Rs 9.99 lakh (ex-showroom)
- The Skoda Kylaq is priced at Rs 9.59 lakh (ex-showroom) for MT while Rs 10.59 lakh (ex-showroom) for the AT
In the bustling competition of the compact SUVs, two new players have emerged to join the league. The Skoda Kylaq and the Kia Syros, both promise impressive features and impressive performance on the go. In this article, we'll pit the Skoda Kylaq's Signature variant against the Kia Syros HTK (O) variant, to figure out which is better for you. Before diving deep into the comparison, make sure to join the 91Wheels WhatsApp community to never miss out on any automotive updates.
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Design

The Skoda Kylaq follows the brand's Modern Solid design language. The front fascia resembles the bigger sibling Kushaq. It features a slightly smaller grille than that of Kushaq and a split DRL and headlamp setup. However, those pronounced creases on the bonnet give it a very sporty look. On the lower side, there's a very subtle cladding along with a silver skid plate. At the rear, it features squared-out taillights joined by a dark applique with Skoda lettering on it. Moreover, there's a thick cladding on the bumper too.

On the other hand, Kia Syros takes its design cues from the bigger siblings, EV6 and EV9. The front profile gets sleek LED DRLs along with vertically stacked three-pod LED headlamps. The Syros features a boxy design and rides on 17-inch wheels, but you'll find 16-inch wheels in the HTK (O) variant. Coming to the rear, it boasts those L-shaped LED taillamps along with a roof-mounted spoiler. Moreover, the bumper gets a silver skid plate which adds a sporty touch.
Features

Stepping inside, the Kylaq shares a similar dashboard layout as the bigger sibling Kushaq. Both of them boast the same side AC vents, and a two-spoke steering wheel. While other features include a 7-inch infotainment with wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Cruise control and TPMS. Meanwhile, for the safety, it relies on six airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, ISOFIX child seat mounts and rear parking sensors. However, there's no ADAS on offer, even in the top spec.

When it comes to the Syros, it offers a very subtle dashboard layout with a 12.3-inch infotainment and a 12.3-inch instrument cluster. Similar to the Kylaq, the Syros also gets a two-spoke steering wheel as of its bigger siblings. Moreover, it offers a rearview camera, Type C charging port, rear AC vents, and leatherette seat upholstery. For safety, it relies on six airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, hill start assist, front and rear parking sensors, and ISOFIX child seat.
Feature | Skoda Kylaq Signature | Kia Syros HTK (O) |
---|---|---|
Dashboard Layout | Similar to Kushaq | Minimalist design |
Infotainment | 7-inch touchscreen (wired Android Auto & Apple CarPlay) | 12.3-inch touchscreen |
Instrument Cluster | Analog | 12.3-inch digital cluster |
Steering Wheel | Two-spoke | Two-spoke |
Cruise Control | Yes | No |
TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) | Yes | No |
Rear AC Vents | No | Yes |
Rear View Camera | No | Yes |
Charging Port | Standard USB | Type-C |
Seat Upholstery | Fabric | Leatherette |
Safety Features | 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, ISOFIX, rear parking sensors | 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, hill start assist, front & rear parking sensors, ISOFIX |
ADAS | No | No |
Powertrains
The Skoda Kylaq is available with only one engine option: a 1.0 Litre TSI, 3-cylinder petrol unit. This powerhouse churns out 114 bhp and 178 Nm of torque, paired along with a 5-speed manual transmission. Meanwhile, the Kia Syros offers two engine options with the HTK (O) variant. It gets a 1.0-litre turbo petrol unit and a 1.5-litre diesel unit clubbed along with a 6-speed manual transmission. The diesel engine belts out 114 bhp and 250 Nm of torque while the petrol engine produces 118 bhp and 172 Nm of torque.
Specification | Skoda Kylaq Signature | Kia Syros HTK (O) - Petrol | Kia Syros HTK (O) - Diesel |
---|---|---|---|
Engine Type | 1.0L TSI, 3-cylinder Petrol | 1.0L Turbo Petrol | 1.5L Diesel |
Power Output | 114 bhp | 118 bhp | 114 bhp |
Torque | 178 Nm | 172 Nm | 250 Nm |
Transmission | 5-speed Manual | 6-speed Manual | 6-speed Manual |
Pricing
The Skoda Kylaq's signature variant is priced at Rs 9.59 lakh (ex-showroom) with the manual transmission while it is priced at Rs 10.59 lakh (ex-showroom) with the automatic transmission. On the other hand, Kia Syros HTK (O) variant is priced at Rs 9.99 lakh (ex-showroom).
Variant | Manual Transmission | Automatic Transmission |
---|---|---|
Skoda Kylaq Signature | Rs 9.59 lakh (ex-showroom) | Rs 10.59 lakh (ex-showroom) |
Kia Syros HTK (O) | Rs 9.99 lakh (ex-showroom) | Not Available |
Read more: Skoda Kylaq Prestige Vs Kushaq Prestige 1.0-litre TSI - Is the Baby Kushaq A Better Deal For You?
Verdict
In the competitive field of compact SUVs, both the Kylaq and Syros offer distinct advantages. The Kylaq stands out with its dynamic design and engaging driving experience, appealing to those who prioritise performance and a sporty aesthetic. The Syros impresses with its advanced features, including a larger infotainment system and additional safety features, catering to tech-savvy drivers out there. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preferences: if you value driving dynamics and a spirited design, the Kylaq is a compelling option, if cutting-edge features and enhanced safety are your priorities, the Syros is better consideration.