The Kia Syros electric vehicle (EV) and Maruti Suzuki
e Vitara are priced almost identically at the top end, but they cater to
different buyers.
Here’s a detailed comparison of their design, range, features, performance, safety, and overall value to help you choose the right electric SUV.
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| In charging, Kia takes the lead compared to Maruti e Vitara. |
The electric SUV market in India is heating up, and Kia has strengthened its portfolio with the launch of the Syros EV, its second mass-market electric vehicle.
While the compact SUV primarily rivals models like the Tata Nexon EV and Mahindra XUV 3XO EV, its top-spec pricing overlaps with the larger Maruti Suzuki e Vitara.
Despite belonging to different segments, both electric
SUVs compete for buyers looking for a premium EV experience.
Here’s a detailed comparison:
Dimensions: Bigger isn’t always better
The Maruti Suzuki e Vitara clearly has the size advantage. It is 280 mm longer than the Syros EV and rides on a 150 mm longer wheelbase, giving it a stronger road presence and potentially better cabin space.
However, the Kia Syros EV isn’t exactly compact in every dimension. It is 5 mm wider and 30 mm taller, creating a roomy interior feel.
It also offers a practical 16-litre front trunk (frunk) for storing charging cables or small luggage, something the e Vitara does not provide.
The e Vitara counters with larger alloy wheels, adding
to its premium appeal.
Battery, range and performance
One of the biggest surprises is how efficiently Kia has tuned the Syros EV.
Although its battery pack is nearly 10 kWh smaller than the e Vitara’s, the Syros EV trails by only 17 km in ARAI-certified driving range.
This makes it an impressive option for buyers prioritising efficiency.
Both SUVs feature front-wheel-drive layouts and deliver similar power outputs, but the Syros EV generates 62 Nm more torque, translating into quicker acceleration.
Kia claims a 0.6-second faster 0-100 km per hour
sprint, making the Syros EV the more spirited vehicle to drive.
Charging: Kia takes the lead
Charging capability is another area where the Syros EV gains an advantage.
The Syros EV supports 100 kW DC fast charging, compared
to the 70 kW DC charging limit on the e Vitara. This allows faster charging
stops during long-distance travel.
Features and cabin technology
Kia has loaded the Syros EV with technology and comfort features that are rarely seen in this segment.
Highlights include:
Larger infotainment and digital instrument displays
Dedicated climate-control touchscreen
Panoramic sunroof
Rear window sunshades
Ventilated rear seat cushions
Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality
Paddle shifters for regenerative braking adjustment
Roof rails and logo-projecting puddle lamps
However, the Maruti Suzuki e Vitara has a more extensively electrically-adjustable driver’s seat and a Snow drive mode.
But overall, it offers fewer premium features.
Colour choices are another strong point for the e
Vitara. Buyers get six monotone and four dual-tone paint options, while the
top-spec Syros EV X-Line is limited to Aurora Black Pearl and Matte Graphite,
both of which require higher maintenance.
Safety: e Vitara holds the edge
Safety is where Maruti Suzuki gains a clear advantage.
The e Vitara comes equipped with seven airbags, rain-sensing wipers, adaptive cruise control, and has already secured a 5-star Bharat NCAP crash safety rating.
The Syros EV offers side parking sensors and advanced driver assistance features but is yet to undergo Bharat NCAP testing.
But the petrol-powered Syros earned a 5-star Bharat
NCAP rating, suggesting the electric version could perform similarly once tested.
Battery-as-a-Service makes ownership easier
Both manufacturers also offer Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) options, reducing the vehicle’s upfront purchase price by separating battery ownership from the vehicle cost.
For instance, the e Vitara Alpha is available at an effective starting price of Rs 14.49 lakh (Rs 1.5 million) under the BaaS programme —around Rs 5.5 lakh (Rs 550,000) lower than its standard sticker price —with a battery usage charge of Rs 4.39 per km.
Kia has yet to announce BaaS pricing for the Syros EV X-Line.
READ ALSO | Global rollout of Kia EV3 with 600-km range
E-Vroooom’s views
Which electric SUV should you buy?
The Kia Syros EV stands out for buyers seeking maximum features, quicker performance, faster DC charging, innovative technology, and exceptional value.
Its generous equipment list makes it one of the most feature-rich electric SUVs in its price bracket.
The Maruti Suzuki e Vitara, on the other hand, appeals to buyers who prioritise a larger vehicle, greater colour choice, proven crash safety, and a more conventional SUV design.
If cutting-edge features and technology matter most, the Kia Syros EV is the stronger buy but if safety credentials and long-term practicality are your priorities, the Maruti Suzuki e Vitara remains an excellent alternative.
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