Kia Syros HTK (EX) Explained: The ₹9.89 Lakh Compact SUV That Finally Makes Sense in 2026
Published by: FunCarBox
Author: AP Singh
Last updated: January 2026
Why the Kia Syros HTK (EX) Matters in 2026
India’s compact SUV space is overcrowded—but not every variant makes sense. Buyers often face a familiar problem: base trims feel stripped, while higher trims jump prices too aggressively. The Kia Syros HTK (EX) exists to solve exactly that gap.
Priced at ₹9.89 lakh (petrol) and ₹10.63 lakh (diesel) ex-showroom, this trim is positioned to deliver core premium features without forcing buyers into double-digit prices.
At FunCarBox, we judge cars by one metric above all: value delivered per rupee. And the HTK (EX) is Kia’s most calculated move in this segment yet.
Where the HTK (EX) Fits in the Syros Lineup
The Syros range spans from entry-level trims to tech-heavy top variants. The HTK (EX) sits between the basic HTK and the pricier HTK+ / HTX trims.
What That Means Practically
- You get essential design and tech upgrades
- You skip non-essential luxury add-ons
- You avoid the steep price escalation of higher trims
This is the “sweet-spot” variant most rational buyers look for.
Design & Road Presence: Boxy, Modern, Purposeful
The Kia Syros adopts a clean, upright, boxy silhouette—a deliberate shift away from overly rounded compact SUVs. The HTK (EX) trim brings visual upgrades that make it look far more premium than a sub-₹10 lakh car should.
Exterior Highlights
- Vertical LED headlamps with distinctive DRL signature
- LED tail lamps that enhance night visibility and width perception
- 16-inch alloy wheels with a modern geometric design
- Integrated roof rails and squared wheel arches
FunCarBox Take:
This design ages well. It prioritises presence and proportion over gimmicks. Design is a subjectiv matter, some may like it, some may not.
Interior Layout & Cabin Philosophy
Inside, the Syros HTK (EX) balances digital modernity with physical usability—something many rivals still get wrong.
Syros Top Model Cabin Pic used for reference
Dashboard & Controls
- Large 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Clean, horizontal dashboard layout
- Physical buttons retained for climate and key functions
- Ergonomically placed controls for daily ease
Cabin Feel
- Wide glass area improves visibility
- Upright seating position enhances comfort
- Materials prioritise durability over flash
This is an interior built for daily Indian usage, not showroom wow-factor alone.
Infotainment & Connectivity
The infotainment system is one of the HTK (EX)’s biggest upgrades over lower trims.
What You Get
- Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- High-resolution touchscreen with fast response
- Steering-mounted controls
- Rear parking camera with dynamic guidelines
For under ₹10 lakh, this is a strong technology offering.
Seating Comfort & Practical Space
Front Seats
- Good under-thigh support
- Upright posture reduces fatigue
- Adequate lateral support for city and highway use
Rear Seat
- Flat floor improves middle-seat comfort
- Good knee room for the segment
- Rear AC vents improve summer usability
Boot Space
- Square, usable cargo area
- Low loading lip
- Rear seats fold for extended cargo needs
Verdict:
The Syros is designed for real families, not just style.
Engine Options & Performance Character
The HTK (EX) is available with both petrol and diesel engines, both paired to manual transmissions.
Petrol Engine (1.0 Turbo)
- Smooth power delivery
- Ideal for city driving
- Quiet and refined at cruising speeds
Diesel Engine (1.5)
- Strong low-end torque
- Excellent highway composure
- Better fuel efficiency for high-usage owners
FunCarBox Insight:
Choose petrol for urban use. Choose diesel if your annual running exceeds ~15,000 km.
Mileage Expectations (Real-World)
| Fuel Type | Expected Real-World Mileage |
|---|---|
| Petrol | ~17–19 km/l |
| Diesel | ~20–22 km/l |
Mileage will vary based on traffic, driving style, and load—but these numbers reflect typical Indian conditions.
Safety: Quietly Segment-Leading
Kia has loaded the Syros HTK (EX) with safety features that many rivals reserve for higher trims.
Standard Safety Highlights
- Six airbags
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Hill Start Assist
- Vehicle Stability Management
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
This makes the HTK (EX) one of the safest compact SUVs under ₹11 lakh.
Ride Quality & Daily Drive Experience
The Syros is tuned for:
- Urban compliance over rough patches
- Stable highway cruising
- Predictable steering response
It is not a sporty SUV, and that’s a good thing. Comfort and confidence take priority.
Ownership Costs & Service Expectations
Service & Warranty
- Competitive service intervals
- Wide Kia service network
- Predictable maintenance costs
Running Costs
- Petrol: Lower upfront, slightly higher fuel spend
- Diesel: Higher upfront, lower long-term running cost
Kia ownership has matured significantly in India, and the Syros benefits from that ecosystem.
Variant Value Comparison (Quick Look)
| Aspect | HTK | HTK (EX) | HTK+ |
|---|---|---|---|
| LED Lighting | No | Yes | Yes |
| Alloy Wheels | No | Yes | Yes |
| Large Touchscreen | Smaller | 12.3-inch | 12.3-inch |
| Sunroof | No | Yes | Yes |
| Price Jump | – | Minimal | Significant |
Conclusion: HTK (EX) offers the highest value jump per rupee.
Who Should Buy the Kia Syros HTK (EX)?
Ideal For
- First-time SUV buyers
- Families upgrading from hatchbacks
- Buyers wanting features without overspending
- Urban commuters with weekend highway use
Not Ideal For
- Performance enthusiasts
- Buyers seeking automatic transmission at this price
You May find our other articles Interesting
- Best Micro SUVs Under ₹10 Lakh in India (2026)
- Petrol vs Diesel SUV Ownership Comparison
- Tata Punch Facelift launched 2026
Disclosure
This article may display contextual advertisements via Google AdSense.
Advertising does not influence editorial conclusions or recommendations.
FunCarBox Final Verdict
The Kia Syros HTK (EX) is the variant most buyers should choose.
It avoids the compromises of base trims and the price inflation of higher trims—delivering design, safety, technology, and comfort where it matters most.
At ₹9.89 lakh, it is not the cheapest compact SUV—but it may be the smartest buy in its segment for 2026.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
Is the Kia Syros HTK (EX) worth buying over the base HTK?
Yes. The HTK (EX) adds key features like LED lighting, alloys, sunroof, and a larger touchscreen for a relatively small price increase.
Does the HTK (EX) get enough safety features?
Yes. Six airbags, ESC, hill assist, and TPMS are standard.
Which engine should I choose—petrol or diesel?
Petrol suits city use; diesel is better for high annual mileage and highway driving.