Do the Kia Syros' sliding rear seats actually make sense, or are they just a gimmick?

Sliding rear seats are one of the standout features of the Kia Syros, something unusual in this segment. The flexibility of the interior space afforded by this feature offers the possibility of either increasing legroom or cargo space. The feature is up for debate though, whether it’s really that useful in day to day use. For some, it is a game changer for small families who want SUV like flexibility in a smaller package. But others wonder whether it's something that will be used frequently enough to warrant the probable additional expense and probable long term reliability issues. And there's talk about whether this feature on its own is enough to make the Syros stand out in a crowded market, or if it's just a marketing gimmick rather than a useful feature.