KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Both share the same 1.0L turbo-petrol and 1.5L diesel engines
- The venue offers an extra 1.2L NA petrol option with a manual gearbox
- Venue gets dual 12.3-inch curved screens and OTA updates
The subcompact SUV segment just got spicier. Hyundai has dropped its 2026 Venue, which was the most anticipated launch of the year. Meanwhile, Kia launched its Syros back in 2024. Basically, both share similar DNA, but their personalities couldn't be more different. So, if you're in the market for a fun-to-drive, feature-loaded sub-4-meter SUV. Which one among these deserves your garage? Let's find out. However, before getting into the comparison, don't forget to join the 91Wheels WhatsApp community to never miss out on any automotive updates.
Read More: Honda Seriously Considering A Sub-4M SUV For India
Design
Let's skip the usual design talk, but honestly, that's a subjective game. What I like, you might not, and what catches your eye may not work for me. But one thing worth highlighting is that Kia has gone out of the box with the Syros. It's bold, unconventional, and not afraid to experiment, especially with its futuristic front fascia and sharp proportions. That said, such a daring approach might not click with every Indian buyer. It's refreshing, yes, but also polarising. On the other hand, Hyundai's Venue plays it safe.
Interiors And Features
The new Hyundai Venue takes a big step up inside. It now gets dual 12.3-inch curved screens, a redesigned dashboard and centre console, Level 2 ADAS, ventilated front seats, electric sunroof, drive and traction modes, and OTA updates. Safety and convenience are covered with six airbags, a 360-degree camera, a blind spot monitor, BlueLink connectivity, and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. The cabin feels premium, well-built, and smartly laid out.
The Kia Syros, meanwhile, goes for a more futuristic and youthful vibe. The cabin design is bolder, with a wide integrated three-display, touch-based controls, and a rotary gear selector. It, too, offers ventilated seats, ambient lighting, Level 2 ADAS, a 360-degree camera, and connected tech. Compared to the Venue, the Syros feels airier and more design-focused, while the Venue feels more mature and driver-oriented. Apart from these, Kia Syros offers some segment-first features, including rear row sliding and reclining function; however, it is worth noting that Venue also gets reclining second row seats. Some other leading features include ventilated rear row seats and rear sun shades.
Powertrains
Under the hood, both share Hyundai Kia's tried and tested 1.0-litre turbo petrol unit and 1.5-litre diesel engine. Both can be had with a 6-speed manual, 7-speed DCT and a 6-speed AT, respectively. Apart from this, the Venue also gets an option of a 1.2-litre NA petrol unit, which comes paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox.
Pricing
When it comes to pricing, the 2026 Hyundai Venue comes at a starting price of Rs 7.90 lakh (ex-showroom); on the other hand, the Kia Syros is available at a starting price of Rs 8.67 lakh (ex-showroom). Notably, the Syros sits slightly higher than Venue in terms of pricing, but its base trim comes equipped with a decent set of useful features.
Read More: All New 2nd Generation Of Hyundai Venue Launched At Rs 7.89 Lakh
Verdict
Both SUVs cater to slightly different audiences. The Kia Syros is for those who love futuristic design and innovation. It not only looks bold inside and out but also brings in segment-first features like sliding and reclining rear seats, ventilated rear row, and rear sunshades, making it the more comfort- and feature-oriented choice. The new Hyundai Venue, meanwhile, feels more mature and balanced, offering a blend of technology, practicality, and everyday ease. It's refined, familiar, and dependable, appealing to buyers who prefer substance over flash. In short, the Syros excites with freshness, while the Venue impresses with its proven all-round ability.
