New Kia Seltos: The Kia Seltos, which initially made its debut in India in 2019, turned out to be the breakthrough model for the brand and facilitated the establishment of Kia as a significant player in the country. Now, the much-loved midsize SUV is gearing up for a full generational upgrade. The completely new Seltos is scheduled to have its global premiere on December 10, 2022, and the day will be marked with drastic design changes, upgrades in features, and possibly even the arrival of hybrid technology. Next, let’s unfold the topic of the next-gen Seltos.
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Origin
Since the day one, the Seltos was a global car. It is sold in various markets, including the U.S., Canada, South Africa, and Australia. The SUV did, however, make its global debut in India, which indeed points out the significance of the Indian market for Kia. Even though specifications vary from country to country, Seltos is still the most popular car across the world and very much liked in India where it has always been one of the most preferred mid-size SUVs.
Generation
The new Seltos is going to be its second generation all over again. The first model was in 2019, and after that, it went through a facelift in July 2023 with new styling, new features, and a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine that was more powerful. However, the new generation will be a complete overhaul with the introduction of a new design language as well as new powertrains and a more luxurious interior.
Platform
The present Seltos rides on the K2 platform, which is also used in the Hyundai Creta. The next-gen model of Kia will be based on a heavily modified version of this platform. The revised structure will aim at enhancing the ride quality, decreasing cabin noise and improving the overall driving experience. The forthcoming Creta (expected in 2027) will also inherit the same improved platform, which is indicative of the long-term strategy adopted by Hyundai-Kia.
Size
The upcoming Seltos will increase its dimensions. Although the precise measures remain undecided, the SUV will be broader and it will also have more extended wheelbase. This will straightaway result in more comfortable up front, particularly for the rear seat passengers, and a bigger trunk. The enlargement of the car body will at the same time enhance the SUV’s power to make a strong presence on the road.
Design
Redesigning the Seltos will be one of the main features of the next-generation. The new SUV to be will come up with a more vertical, more powerful and brawny form, sharper edges, triangular-shaped rear glass and a new silhouette for the windows. Other accessories contributing to a more luxurious appearance of the SUV include thin LED lamps for the front, vertical DRLs, a larger air intake, modified bumpers, new rims and flush door handles. The initial indications of the styling are that the newcomer could be the winner of the family resemblance influence from the Kia Telluride in terms of both boldness and luxury.
Cabin
The interior of the Seltos will be completely different. Among the new things, the reworked dashboard, better quality materials and new configuration, will be the main ones for Kia. Presently the two 10.25-inch display screens may be switched to a bigger 12.3-inch one placed in a curved mode similar to the futuristic Hyundai models. The installation of a mini-screen to the side like the one used in the Syros may also take place.
Moreover, features like a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, ambient lighting, dual-zone climate control, upgraded connected-car tech and a wireless charging pad will be available. The changes that will be made in terms of comfort and ergonomics will be very noticeable.
Hybrid
A petrol-hybrid powertrain is lighting up the prospects of new Seltos most among the mechanical changes. This will enable it to take on directly hybrid competitors such as the Grand Vitara, Hyryder and Victoris. Global markets might get an all-time electric AWD (E-AWD) system for hybrid variants but its India launch is not confirmed yet.
The hybrid will be accompanied by the engines that have been around:
1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol (114hp, 144Nm)
1.5-litre turbo-petrol (158hp, 253Nm)
1.5-litre diesel (115hp, 250Nm)
Apart from these engines, refinements, better efficiency and improved gearbox tuning are expected.
Drive
Ride quality and handling would be the benefits of the new platform, a longer wheelbase and revised suspension tuning. The existing model has a somewhat firm setting, and Kia may make it softer for better comfort without sacrificing stability at high speeds.
Price
Increment in prices is the likely outcome of significant upgrades in design, features and tech. The current Seltos is priced between ₹10.79 lakh and ₹19.81 lakh (ex-showroom). The new model will likely be above this range, particularly with the hybrid variants introduced.
