If it ever feels like the rest of the world is getting all the coolest diesel vehicles while the United States continues to be ignored, you can rest assured that the feeling is correct. Kia recently unveiled its newest vehicle, the Syros. While at first glance it may seem like just another compact family econobox, under the skin it’s packed with a potent 1.5-liter turbodiesel engine that can be backed by an optional manual transmission. Sadly, for us, this right-hand-drive jewel is destined for sale in India.

“Kia India has always been driven by a challenger spirit, setting new benchmarks in the automotive industry with our commitment to innovation, technology, and customer-centric design,” said Mr. Gwanggu Lee, MD and CEO of Kia India. “Our journey since the first launch has been nothing short of remarkable, with a growing presence across the country and a focus on delivering high-quality, aspirational vehicles. With the Syros, we are further enhancing our product portfolio, offering a new species of SUV that combines superior comfort, cutting-edge technology, and bold design.”

The new Kia Syros is built on the company’s reinforced K1 platform. This compact SUV is tailored to meet the needs of both urban drivers and tech-savvy adventurers. The vehicle blends cutting-edge advancements in technology with comfort and safety. It also offers Level 2 ADAS with 16 autonomous safety features, which are complemented by a suite of 20 additional standard safety features.

On the outside, the Syros mixes bold aesthetics with functional versatility. The design commands attention, highlighted by Kia’s signature starmap LED lighting. These headlamps offer a futuristic and sophisticated look. Kia describes the Syros as having a “Signature Digital Tiger Face,” which further enhances the otherwise diminutive vehicle’s road presence. Large 17-inch Crystal Cut aluminum wheels, streamlined door handles, puddle lamps with Kia logo projection, and “muscular” contours all contribute to the vehicle’s dynamic styling.

The Syros cabin delivers a comfortable space with a first-in-segment sliding and reclining split rear bench seat. Front seats come heated and ventilated with the driver seat offering four-way power adjustability. Further elevating the cabin is a 30-inch Trinity Panoramic Display panel, connected car navigation cockpit, dual-pane panoramic sunroof, and 64-color ambient mood lighting package.

Under the hood, the Syros boasts two engine options: a gasoline-powered Smartstream 1.0-liter turbocharged engine and a 1.5-liter turobodiesel. This diesel engine is the latest high-tech common-rail direct-injection to come out of the company’s arsenal. The engine produces 114 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. The diesel engine can be paired with either an automatic or six-speed manual transmission.

The Kia Syros will be available in four standard trims and two option trims: HTK, HTK (O), HTK+, HTX, and HTX+, HTX+(O). The Syros is expected to be priced at about 1,000,000 Indian Rupees, or about $13,000.