Korean car maker Kia started its India journey back in 2019 with the Seltos compact SUV. Despite several more launches, the car remains a bestseller for the brand in the country. Now it has got a facelift and there have been prominent changes in design, features and yes there’s a new turbo engine as well.
Design
The new Kia Seltos has many new design elements and the brands’ ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy is quite evident on the car. The face has gone in for a makeover and that includes a redesigned grille, new DRLs and tweaked bumpers. The connecting tail lamps too add their charm on the SUV. The SUV also sees the introduction of the India-exclusive Pewter Olive colour. The car gets Tech Line, GT Line and X Line trims and all look quite different from each other. The car gets 18-inch Crystal Cut Glossy Black Alloy Wheels.
Interiors
The cabin as expected is loaded with features and the highlight here is the new design of the cluster as well as the touch screen which are a part of a new unit. Another big change is the presence of a panoramic sunroof on the car. Rest of the features are carried forward from earlier which include a premium Bose surround sound system, dual zone climate control, ventilated and electric seats as well as a wireless charger and an Electric Parking Brake. There’s ample space in the cabin on both the rows and that is the case with the boot space well.
Engine
There are multiple engine and gearbox options on the new Seltos. While there are the tried and tested 1.5 litre Petrol and Diesel engines, the SUV now also the new 1.5 litre turbo Petrol engine which is quite peppy and fun to drive. The engine comes a combination of DCT gearbox and combination makes the new Seltos quite a potent presentation in the market. This Smartstream G1.5 T-GDi Petrol engine is the most powerful in the segment and generates 160 PS of power and 253 Nm of Torque. Kia is also offering the iMT transmission in certain variants of the SUV.
Safety
The new Seltos is packed with 32 safety features, including 15 safety features which are standard across the range. These include 6 airbags, Hill-Start Assist Control, Electronic Stability Control, and Vehicle Stability Management. In addition to this the SUV gets 17 ADAS Level 2 autonomous features. One camera and three radars help in providing features like advanced Forward collision avoidance assist, lane keep assist, and smart cruise control with Stop & Go.
Prices
New Seltos starts at an introductory price of Rs. 10.90 lakh (ex-showroom). There are as many as 18 variants with top of the trim with ADAS – GT-line & X Line in both Diesel and Petrol engines, costing Rs. 19.80 lakh and Rs. 20 lakh ex-showroom respectively. According to Kia, the new Seltos received an overwhelming response, recording the segment’s highest day 1 booking of 13,424 units.
The author is a Senior Editor at carandbike.com.