Kia Motors has recently made waves in the Indian automotive market by announcing a price cut for select variants of its popular 2023 Kia Seltos model. The revised pricing affects all variants from the mid-range HTX trim and above, excluding the top X-line trim. Buyers can now enjoy a Rs 2,000 reduction in the prices of these specific configurations, making the Seltos more appealing in terms of affordability. However, this price adjustment comes with a trade-off, as one particular feature has been omitted from the affected variants. The one-touch up and down functionality for all four power windows, a convenient and appreciated feature, is now reserved solely for the driver's window. Let's delve into the specifics of the revised pricing and the impacted variants:
Revised Pricing Details
The 2023 Kia Seltos now starts at an enticing Rs 10.89 lakh (ex-showroom) for the base variant, making it an even more compelling option for budget-conscious buyers. As you move up the trim levels, the price range extends up to Rs 20.30 lakh (ex-showroom) for the top-tier configurations.
Impact on Features
While the price reduction is undoubtedly a welcome change, it's crucial to highlight the adjustment in features. The removal of the one-touch up and down functionality for three passenger windows may impact the overall convenience and user experience within the cabin.
Variant-wise Overview
To provide a clearer understanding, let's break down the variant-wise impact:
HTX Variant
The mid-spec HTX variant witnesses a Rs 2,000 price cut but loses the one-touch up and down feature for three power windows.
GTX and GTX Plus Variants
Moving up to the higher-end GTX and GTX Plus variants, buyers can enjoy the reduced prices, but the adjustment in window functionality remains consistent.
Catching the Consumer's Eye
This strategic move by Kia aims to attract potential buyers who are price-sensitive without compromising on the overall quality and appeal of the Seltos.
The Competitive Landscape
In a market where SUVs are highly sought after, the 2023 Kia Seltos competes with several formidable contenders.
While the removal of a specific window functionality might be a consideration for some buyers, the overall value proposition offered by the Seltos remains compelling. Kia Motors has implemented a price adjustment for specific variants of the 2023 Kia Seltos, offering a uniform reduction of Rs 2,000 across the affected configurations.
Impact on Variant Pricing
Let's delve into the details of the revised pricing for the affected variants:
HTX 1.5-litre NA Petrol with 6-speed MT
- Old Price: Rs 15.20 lakh
- New Price: Rs 15.18 lakh
HTX 1.5-litre NA Petrol with CVT
- Old Price: Rs 16.60 lakh
- New Price: Rs 16.58 lakh
HTX Plus 1.5-litre Turbo Petrol with iMT
- Old Price: Rs 18.30 lakh
- New Price: Rs 18.28 lakh
HTX Plus 1.5-litre Turbo Petrol with DCT
- Old Price: Rs 19.20 lakh
- New Price: Rs 19.18 lakh
GTX Plus (S) 1.5-litre Turbo Petrol with DCT
- Old Price: Rs 19.40 lakh
- New Price: Rs 19.38 lakh
GTX Plus 1.5-litre Turbo Petrol with DCT
- Old Price: Rs 20 lakh
- New Price: Rs 19.98 lakh
HTX 1.5-litre Diesel with iMT
- Old Price: Rs 16.70 lakh
- New Price: Rs 16.68 lakh
HTX Plus 1.5-litre Diesel with iMT
- Old Price: Rs 18.30 lakh
- New Price: Rs 18.28 lakh
HTX 1.5-litre Diesel with AT
- Old Price: Rs 18.20 lakh
- New Price: Rs 18.18 lakh
GTX Plus (S) 1.5-litre Diesel with AT
- Old Price: Rs 19.40 lakh
- New Price: Rs 19.38 lakh
GTX Plus 1.5-litre Diesel with AT
- Old Price: Rs 20 lakh
- New Price: Rs 19.98 lakh
Feature Adjustment
While the price reduction is a positive aspect, it's essential to note the modification in features. The one-touch up-down function with an anti-pinch feature for all four windows has been removed. This feature, now exclusive to the driver's window, might impact the overall convenience within the cabin.
Strategic Considerations
Kia's decision to lower prices strategically positions the Seltos in a more competitive stance within the SUV market. Kia Motors has taken a strategic step by implementing a price adjustment for select variants of the 2023 Kia Seltos, making it even more appealing to potential buyers.
Revised Pricing: A Closer Look
The affected variants, ranging from the mid-spec HTX trim to the higher-end GTX Plus configurations, now feature a uniform price cut of Rs 2,000.
Feature Adjustment: One-Touch Functionality
An important feature adjustment accompanies the revised pricing. The one-touch up-down function with an anti-pinch feature, previously available for all four windows, has been retained only for the driver's window.
Pricing and Competition
With prices ranging from Rs 10.89 lakh to Rs 20.30 lakh (ex-showroom), the 2023 Kia Seltos remains a competitive option in the SUV segment. It competes with prominent models like the Hyundai Creta, Maruti Grand Vitara, MG Astor, Skoda Kushaq, VW Taigun, Tata Harrier, MG Hector, and the five-seater variants of the Mahindra XUV700.
Strategic Considerations
Kia's decision to adjust prices strategically aligns with market dynamics and consumer preferences.
The 2023 Kia Seltos, with its revised features and competitive pricing, maintains a balance between affordability and a feature-rich driving experience.