Kia Seltos

Expert Review by Maxabout

The introduction of Kia Seltos in 2019 has made a big name in the Indian automobile industry. Being a compact SUV has made buyers go for it because of the unique combination of style, performance, and features. The Seltos in my first observation welcomes the elements of competitiveness in its class with premium appeal and collection of features that cut across all consumer segments. Its performance in India has added more weight reasons to its popularity, as it has been a major factor in the advancement of Kia in the market under review.

Design and Aesthetics

KIA SELTOS has a very attractive and stylish design that one would surely go for at first sight. It's exterior features the familiar “tiger nose” grille which is a common feature of Kia vehicles but was improved in the latest variant. Other features such as the simple structure of aqble headlamps and star map LED DRLs play in modern aspects very well. It is nice to note that the side profile comes with sharp character lines and varying sizes of 16, 17 or 18 alloy wheels depending on the variant.

On the inside, the Seltos is still pursuing the charm with an elaborate cabin design that gives the feeling of class. Two displays are featured on the dashboard which integrates a 10.25 inches touch Infotainment system and a digital gauge cluster. The choice of materials used and color schemes offered are different from variant to variant from black, beige and more peppy conclusive like sage green and black in the X-Line variant. Functionally, the interior aesthetics are both contemporary and practical, with due regard to the comfort of the occupants of the vehicle, including the driver and the passengers.

Performance and Powertrain

Demands for various engines, all the choice of the Kia Seltos SUV is accomplished. A petrol motor - 1.5 naturally aspirated, 1.5 turbo petrol and 1.5 diesel engine gives visit variations to the lineup of the automobile constructors. The naturally aspirated petrol unit, which is the most basic variant, produces an output of 113 bhp with a torque of 144 Nm respect. The petrol turbo variant when engaged suppiles a higher torque range of 253 Nm against a powerful 158 bhp. The efficiency in the diesel engine allows it to churn out 114 bhp with a maximum of 250 Nm of torque.

Transmission options comprise a six-speed manual, a CVT, a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic (DCT) and an intelligent manual transmission (iMT). In my opinion, considering all the experiences I had with the Seltos, it is able to perform decently in all kinds of situations with the diesel variant being fuel efficient and the turbo-petrol being more engaging. The suspension system still however places good emphasis on handling but this can be felt during rides on bad roads.

Features and Technology

City is big but does not lack features and that makes Kia Seltos one of the most advanced vehicles in the class. The sound system is compatible with the smartphone application as the Android Auto and Apple Carplay options are provided with the high-end variants including the Bose sound system. Additionally, Seltos provides more comfort and convenience with technologies such as advanced concealing panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats and dual zone climate control system.

Safety is taken seriously with implementation of Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems distributed which come with adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, automatic emergency brake and more. There are also six airbags and electronic stability control alongside a 360-degree camera for the Seltos.

Variants

The Kia Seltos comes in various models such as the Tech Line and the GT Line as well as the X-Line with varying specifications and styling features. The Tech Line, as its name suggests, is made for practicality, while the GT Line adds more sportiness and new age technology. The X-Line is in the highest position within the hierarchy and contains the most advanced features and distinct design elements.

Of these variants the HTX+ is most often recommended owing to its overall features to price ratio. The HTX, for example, covers many of the premium features that are only available in the higher trims at no extra cost as compared with products in the GT Line or X-line.

Market Position and Pricing

Seltos comes at a pricing range that fans can afford, starting at about Rs. 10 90 lakh to over Rs. 20 37 lakh for the high-end variants. However, this pricing policy places it head on competition against other models selling at the same price, which are the Hyundai Creta, Skoda Kushaq and Volkswagen Taigun. However, within this competitive environment Eltos features the most due to a blench of feature and premium touch.

Target Audience

This compact SUV is made for a wide age group starting from youths to working professionals as well as families. The mixing of performance, features and design sufficiently meets the needs of the technology and comfort oriented consumers. The vehicle can easily be moved around in cities and also used for long trips.

Value for Money

With regard to value for money, the Kia Seltos is fairly well positioned. The long feature list combined with the effective pricing makes the compact SUVs segment more enticing. The safety factor is also coupled up with the provision of more than one powerplant option.

Mileage and Fuel Efficiency

Seltos efficiency in fuel consumes fuel cessation fuel consumption on bettered diesel variants hitting a maximum of up to 20.7 kmpl. Petrol variants are not as efficient, the turbo petrol performing real life circumstances is a little less with a figure at about 14 kmpl. Within this subdivision, these features are competitive which makes the Seltos favorable for all who will be keen on the running costs.

Competitors and Comparison

The Kia Seltos must contend with formidable models such as Hyundai Creta, Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun, and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder. Each rival has its own advantages: the Creta has more or less the same functional benefits, there is the Kushaq with excellent fit and finish, and the Taigun earning its reputation in terms of body and performance. Where the Seltos really stands out is in providing an attractive combination of looks, features, and performance which gives it an upper hand in the market.

Conclusion

To conclude, Kia Seltos is made efficiently efficient, range and functionality are equally charactaristic to catch potential buyers in that compact model. Its attractive look25, good engine specifications, and an array of features will make it appealing in its category. Seltos could sustain and build on its revenue generation levels within the Indian markets from potential customers who are looking for a contemporary family SUV. From the perspective of a reviewer, the Seltos is one of the best models that live to the expectation, and every person looking forward to buying a car should include this model in his/her wish list.