2025 Hottest Compact SUV : The compact SUV segment in India is set for a seismic shift in 2025, with automakers launching feature-packed, tech-savvy models that blend urban practicality with adventurous styling. From hybrid powertrains to Level 2 ADAS, these upcoming SUVs promise to redefine affordability and innovation. Here’s a deep dive into the most anticipated models, their specs, and why they’re worth the wait.
Kia’s Syros, codenamed Clavis, is set to launch on February 1, 2025, with prices expected to start at ₹10 lakh (ex-showroom). Bookings are already open, and deliveries will begin in March 2025. Positioned between the Sonet and Seltos, the Syros targets buyers seeking premium features in a sub-4-meter package.
The Syros breaks the mold with its boxy, upright silhouette, inspired by global SUV trends. Key highlights include a clamshell bonnet, LED projector headlamps with C-shaped DRLs, and a floating roof design. The rear features vertical LED taillights and a sporty bumper. Inside, dual-tone leatherette seats, a panoramic sunroof, and ambient lighting create a lounge-like ambiance.
The Syros offers two engine choices:
: 120 bhp, 172 Nm, paired with a 7-speed DCT.
: 116 bhp, 250 Nm, mated to a 6-speed torque converter automatic.
The diesel variant’s low-end torque suits highway cruising, while the petrol-DCT combo delivers zippy city performance.
Kia loaded the Syros with segment-first tech:
: Infotainment and digital cluster with wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay.
: Dolby Atmos support.
: Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and autonomous emergency braking.
Safety features include six airbags, ESC, and a 360-degree camera.
: ₹10 lakh – ₹15 lakh (ex-showroom).
: 18 kmpl (petrol), 20 kmpl (diesel).
Skoda’s answer to the compact SUV race, the Kylaq, launches in January 2025 with prices starting at ₹7.89 lakh (ex-showroom). Built on the MQB-A0-IN platform (shared with Kushaq), it aims to disrupt the market with German engineering at Maruti prices.
The Kylaq sports Skoda’s new “Modern Solid” design: a hexagonal grille, split LED headlamps, and 17-inch alloy wheels. The cabin features a minimalist dashboard with a 10-inch touchscreen, soft-touch materials, and ventilated front seats.
Powered by a 1.0L TSI Turbo-Petrol engine (115 bhp, 178 Nm), the Kylaq offers a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. It accelerates 0–100 km/h in 12.1 seconds, with a top speed of 175 km/h.
: With navigation and drive modes.
and Cooled Glovebox.
, ESC, and rear parking sensors.
: ₹7.89 lakh – ₹12.50 lakh (ex-showroom).
: 18.5 kmpl (manual), 17.2 kmpl (automatic).
Hyundai’s Venue facelift arrives in Q3 2025, priced from ₹8 lakh (ex-showroom). It’ll be the first model produced at Hyundai’s new Talegaon plant, emphasizing local manufacturing.
The Venue adopts Hyundai’s “Parametric Dynamics” design: a cascading grille, parametric-jewel LED headlamps, and connected taillights. The cabin gets a 10.25-inch dual-screen setup, ambient lighting, and a sunroof.
Retaining the current engines:
: 83 bhp, paired with a 5-speed manual.
: 120 bhp, with a 7-speed DCT.
: 100 bhp, with a 6-speed manual.
: Forward collision warning, lane assist.
and Ventilated Seats.
and hill-start assist.
: ₹8 lakh – ₹13 lakh (ex-showroom).
: 18 kmpl (petrol), 24 kmpl (diesel).
Maruti’s Fronx Hybrid debuts in Mid-2025, starting at ₹9.5 lakh (ex-showroom). It combines the Fronx’s sporty design with Toyota’s hybrid tech.
The Fronx Hybrid mirrors the standard model’s coupe-like design but adds blue accents and aerodynamic alloys. The interior features a 9-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and dual-tone upholstery.
The 1.2L Z-Series Hybrid engine pairs with an e-CVT, delivering 94 bhp and 25 kmpl mileage. The hybrid system enables silent electric-only drives under 40 km/h.
: Remote AC control and geo-fencing.
, ESC, and rear camera.
: ₹9.5 lakh – ₹12 lakh (ex-showroom).
: 25 kmpl (hybrid mode).
Volkswagen’s Tera, a rebadged Skoda Kylaq, launches in Late 2025 with prices from ₹8.5 lakh (ex-showroom). It aims to capture budget-conscious buyers wanting European build quality.
The Tera features a sleek LED light bar, 17-inch alloys, and a minimalist interior with a 8-inch touchscreen.
Shares the Kylaq’s 1.0L TSI engine (115 bhp) with 6-speed manual/automatic options.
with wireless Android Auto.
, ESC, and tire pressure monitoring.
: ₹8.5 lakh – ₹11.5 lakh (ex-showroom).
: 17.5 kmpl.
| Model | Price (₹ lakh) | Engine | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Syros | 10 – 15 | 1.0L Turbo/1.5L Diesel | Harman Kardon audio, ADAS |
| Skoda Kylaq | 7.89 – 12.5 | 1.0L TSI | 10-inch screen, ventilated seats |
| Hyundai Venue | 8 – 13 | 1.0L Turbo/1.5L Diesel | Bose audio, Parametric grille |
| Maruti Fronx Hybrid | 9.5 – 12 | 1.2L Hybrid | 25 kmpl mileage, e-CVT |
| Volkswagen Tera | 8.5 – 11.5 | 1.0L TSI | European design, 8-inch screen |
: Which compact SUV offers the best features for ₹10 lakh?
A: The Kia Syros leads with Harman audio, ADAS, and a panoramic sunroof.
: Are diesel engines still relevant in 2025?
A: Yes! Models like the Hyundai Venue Diesel and Kia Syros Diesel offer 24 kmpl+ mileage, ideal for long drives.
: Which SUV is safest?
A: The Kia Syros and Hyundai Venue both offer 6 airbags and ADAS.
: Is the Maruti Fronx Hybrid worth the premium?
A: If you drive 1,500+ km monthly, its ₹1.5/km running cost justifies the price.
: Can the Skoda Kylaq handle rough roads?
A: With 180mm ground clearance and robust suspension, it tackles potholes confidently.
2025’s compact SUV lineup proves that affordability no longer means compromise. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast eyeing the Kia Syros, a efficiency seeker leaning toward the Fronx Hybrid, or a budget buyer considering the Skoda Kylaq, there’s an SUV for every priority. As these models hit roads, one thing’s clear: India’s compact SUV race is just getting started.