
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Kia Syros test mule spotted again with red body and heavily camouflaged
- Raises speculation about an X-Line variant, electric version, or new petrol engine in the works
- Lacks rugged styling cues of typical X-Line trims, suggesting this may not be the off-road variant
Something is brewing up with Kia, a camouflaged test mule of Kia Syros was spied testing on Indian roads. With an Intense Red coloured body under wraps, this time it's raising more questions than answers: What could it be? A new X-Line trim or the rumoured Syros EV? Well, let's dive into the details. Before moving ahead, make sure to join the 91Wheels WhatsApp community to never miss out on any automotive updates.
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Kia Syros Spied Testing

Kia's latest compact SUV, the Syros, was spied testing under heavy wraps on indian roads. But this time with a TN number plate and a red paint finish underneath the disguise. The curiosity asks, what could it be: an upcoming EV variant or the X Line trim like its siblings? Going by the spy shots, a visible exhaust pipe was visible at the back. Hinting towards the ICE version, not an EV prototype. However, EV posiibility can't be ruled out completely, due to the fact that car makers do install fake exhausts to mislead onlookers.
What Could It Be?

Kia is known to offer a rugged X Line trim of their lineup, including the Sonet, Seltos and Carens. These variants typically get matte paint jobs, all black accents, dark alloys and overall styling. However, the test doesn't carry any of these traits, suggesting that it is not the X Line trim. Meanwhile, the Syros EV, Kia could be conducting an early test using the ICE Body shell. The presence of exhaust would simply mislead the people out there. Moreover, a third possibility could be that a new powertrain could be under test. Rumours suggest that Kia is possibly working on a 1.2-litre Kappa petrol engine, aimed at providing more affordable entry level variants.
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Verdict
While it's still unclear whether the test mule represents the X-Line, the EV, or a new budget-friendly petrol variant, one thing is certain: Kia is actively expanding the lineup to keep it competitive in the fast-evolving market. The real reveal is likely a few months away, but with more prototypes expected to hit the road soon, we may not have to wait long for clarity.