The Quick Update
- What Happened: Kia has entered India’s compact electric SUV segment with the Syros EV, directly challenging the Tata Nexon EV. A specification-by-specification comparison of both top-end variants shows the Syros EV leading in battery size, performance and cabin features, while the Nexon EV maintains a significant pricing advantage.
- The Key Number: ₹3.5 lakh — the price difference between the Kia Syros EV X-Line and Tata Nexon EV Empowered+ A 45.
- Why It Matters: As competition intensifies in India’s electric SUV market, buyers are increasingly weighing performance and premium features against overall value for money.
The Comparison
Price
| Model | Ex-showroom Price |
|---|---|
| Kia Syros EV X-Line | ₹20.00 lakh |
| Tata Nexon EV Empowered+ A 45 | ₹17.49 lakh |
The Syros EV commands a premium of ₹3.5 lakh over the Nexon EV, making pricing the biggest differentiator between the two.
Battery & Performance
| Specification | Kia Syros EV | Tata Nexon EV |
|---|---|---|
| Battery | 51.4 kWh | 45 kWh |
| Power | 171 hp | 144 hp |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Claimed Range | 526 km | 489 km |
| 0-100 km/h | 8.1 sec | 8.9 sec |
The Syros EV offers a larger battery, higher output and a claimed driving range that is 37 km higher than the Nexon EV.
Charging
- Kia supports 100 kW DC fast charging with a 10-80% charging time of 39 minutes.
- Tata supports 60 kW DC charging, reaching 10-80% in 40 minutes.
- Despite the higher charging power, real-world DC charging times remain almost identical because of the Syros EV’s larger battery.
Dimensions & Practicality
The Kia Syros EV offers several practical advantages:
- 52 mm longer wheelbase
- 390-litre boot
- 16-litre frunk
- Larger 17-inch wheels
The Nexon EV is similar in overall length but trails the Syros in cabin and luggage space.
Features
The Syros EV adds several premium features including:
- Powered driver’s seat
- Sliding and reclining rear seats
- Rear-seat ventilation
- Larger 12.3-inch digital driver’s display
- Flush door handles
The Nexon EV counters with:
- JBL 9-speaker audio system
- Air purifier
- Multiple exterior colour options
Both SUVs offer Level 2 ADAS, panoramic sunroof, connected car technology, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality and adaptive cruise control.
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Safety
Both SUVs include six airbags, electronic stability control, a 360-degree camera and Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).
However, the Tata Nexon EV already holds a 5-star Bharat NCAP safety rating, while the Kia Syros EV is yet to undergo Bharat NCAP testing.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the Kia Syros EV if you want:
- Longer claimed range
- More powerful performance
- Premium rear-seat comfort
- Faster charging hardware
- Larger cabin and boot space
Choose the Tata Nexon EV if you want:
- Better overall value
- Proven 5-star Bharat NCAP safety
- Lower purchase price
- Well-established EV ecosystem
- Strong feature package without stretching the budget
Read More: Catch up on All India EV’s related coverage on India’s evolving commercial EV subsidies and battery swapping policies at All India EV
