Kia's Syros compact SUV / Courtesy of Kia

Kia has unveiled its new compact SUV — the Syros — for the Indian market, aiming to level up its presence in the world's third-largest auto market, the Korean carmaker said Sunday.

The Syros boasts a compact design, measuring less than four meters in length, and is equipped with advanced smart connectivity systems to enhance safety and convenience while driving, according to Kia.

The SUV will be produced exclusively in India. The carmaker plans to export them, particularly to developing countries where demand for affordable and compact vehicles remains strong.

“The Syros will be able to help Kia expand its presence in the global auto industry, not only in India but also in key regions such as Asia-Pacific, Latin America and the Middle East,” a Kia spokesperson said.

In October, Hyundai Motor Group showed a commitment to achieve greater success in India by going public on the country's stock market.

The group's two key auto affiliates — Hyundai Motor and Kia — are actively diversifying their vehicle launch lineups there to meet growing demand from Indian customers and boost exports to other countries.

Unlike other developed territories, such as the United States and Europe, India still has enough room for growth not only for vehicles with internal combustion engines but also for electric vehicles.

Hyundai Motor and Kia also see India as a new hub for vehicle exports to regions such as Africa, Southeast Asia and other emerging markets, as the aforementioned major auto markets face saturation due to intensifying competition from legacy carmakers.

Kia expects the Syros to serve as a key strategic model to drive the carmaker's exports to the territories, as the vehicle is highly commercial with a set of diverse infotainment systems and a bold exterior design.

The vehicle is equipped with a 30-inch panoramic display, allowing drivers to be easily updated with key driving information. It also features a premium sound system by Harman Kardon.

The Syros is also loaded with a number of safety features, such as lane assistance and a forward-collision warning system.

A 360-surround view camera is another key feature for the vehicle, as demand for such parking assistance remains high in India.

“Kia will continue to strengthen our brand presence in India with the launch of the Syros equipped with cutting-edge technologies and excellent design,” Kia India CEO Lee Gwang-gu said.

“We will keep setting a new standard for the Indian auto market with our customer-centric design identity and innovative technologies.”