The current trend among automakers is for them to go 100% electric propulsion. But some brands prefer to keep a foot in gasoline power. That’s Kia, which could unveil a new small gasoline-powered SUV in Europe.
A Gasoline Engine Under the Hood
The automotive industry is increasingly turning to electric. Like other brands, Kia now offers a much larger electrified lineup by 2026. In total, there are six 100% electric models in the Korean automaker’s catalog.
Yet Kia plans to keep a foothold in the combustion arena. A new vehicle could enrich the current lineup. It is a new A-segment SUV. This model isn’t entirely new to Kia; in fact, this SUV is already sold in India.
But if this model is making headlines, it’s because it was spotted a few days ago in Spain for testing. That has fueled speculation about a possible European arrival of this SUV. Its name? Syros. Under the hood, there is a 1.5-liter diesel engine producing 116 horsepower and a 1.0-liter turbo gasoline engine delivering 120 horsepower. According to rumors, Kia could officially unveil the Syros for Europe sometime in 2027.
Among the smallest in the segment for its dimensions
In addition to its combustion option, the Syros measures about 4 meters in length, or about 2 cm shorter than the Kia EV2. Its height stands at 1.68 meters and its wheelbase at 2.55 meters. As for the cargo area, it can hold up to 465 liters. That places this SUV among the smallest in its class. Inside, drivers will find a well-equipped cabin with an interior similar to that of the EV2.
However, nothing is official yet. To learn more, we’ll have to wait for Kia’s formal decision on the matter. But if the aim of keeping a foothold in the combustion remains, it would be a real surprise. After all, the European trend is more toward a big push into electric. Not to mention that newer standards are approaching on the Old Continent.
Nonetheless, it would give customers a genuine alternative when buying an SUV. Moreover, the Syros could offer a very attractive starting price, around €20,000 (roughly $21,000 in USD).
Kia will thus be watched closely in 2027. Such an offering could well attract many customers looking for an affordable SUV.
