New Delhi: The Seltos returns in a new avatar today. Hard to believe that Kia only entered India in 2019. The first Seltos clicked well with buyers like me who enjoy a balanced mix of style and features without burning a hole in the pocket. Now the next generation tries to take that story a bit forward.
The new model is longer and wider. It uses the K3 platform which pushes the wheelbase further by around 30mm. It should make the cabin feel less tight for families.
New Kia Seltos: Bigger Size and Updated Platform
The SUV still feels familiar but more grown up. The roof line is flatter and the surfaces are smoother. Flush-type door handles replace the older pull-style ones. Kia teases have already shown a 4X4 badge on the bootlid, hinting at something more exciting for those who enjoy weekend hill runs near Lonavala.
Key exterior updates:
- New Tigerface grille
- Redesigned LED headlamps
- Vertical LED DRLs
- Connected LED tail lamps
- New alloy wheels
- Panoramic sunroof and roof rails
It aligns with Kia’s recent global styling direction. Personally, the vertical DRLs give it a more serious attitude on the road.
New Kia Seltos: Fresh Cabin and Tech Upgrades
The interior design takes a big step forward. Lighter colours and cleaner surfaces give it a premium touch. I spotted the new three-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel in spy shots. It now holds the audio, telephony and ADAS buttons right where thumbs rest.
The dual-screen setup grows bigger too. Two 12.3-inch digital displays sit side by side like one long curved unit. That should please tech lovers. The central console is less cluttered and the start/stop button moves closer to the driver’s hand.
Features expected at launch:
- Level 2 ADAS
- 360-degree camera
- Ventilated seats
- Dual zone climate control
- Electronic parking brake with auto hold
- Wireless charging
- Connected car suite
- Ambient lighting and metal pedals
One quirky change was spotted in the recent leaks. Instead of two physical knobs like before, the new infotainment set-up gets only a single scroll button. Fans of old-school tuning might sigh.
Engine Options Stay Familiar
Kia is expected to continue the same set of engines from the current generation:
- 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol
- 1.5L turbo petrol (TGDi)
- 1.5L diesel
Outputs currently stand at around 114 hp and 144 Nm for the NA petrol, 158 hp and 253 Nm for the turbo petrol, and 115 hp and 250 Nm for the diesel. Gearbox choices should include both manual and automatic units. Top speed figures often float around 190 kmph for turbo petrol models, depending on tune.
No major price surprises are expected since there is no new hybrid kit or imported drivetrain involved. Kia usually plays sharp in pricing compared to rivals like Hyundai Creta, Honda Elevate, Maruti Grand Vitara and MG Astor.
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