2024 Kia Seltos Gets New Automatic Variants
Kia has introduced two new automatic variants of the Seltos, expanding the lineup with the HTK+ Petrol CVT and HTK+ Diesel AT trims. Priced at Rs 15.40 lakh and Rs 16.90 lakh (ex-showroom), respectively, these variants offer a more affordable option for buyers seeking petrol CVT or diesel automatic models.
Positioned below the HTX trims, the HTK+ variants provide a cost-effective alternative, with the petrol CVT trim priced Rs 1.20 lakh lower than the HTX CVT, and the diesel AT variant Rs 1.30 lakh cheaper than the HTX trim.
While offering competitive pricing, the HTK+ variants do come with some feature omissions compared to higher trims. These include the absence of a panoramic sunroof, LED headlamps, LED fog lamps, LED tail lights, and 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels. Instead, they feature 16-inch wheels and an 8-inch touchscreen display, replacing the 10.25-inch unit found in higher trims.
The highlight of the update lies in the added features, which include Smart Key with push button start/stop, Smart Key remote engine start/stop, Star Map LED connected tail lamps, fully automatic climate control AC, and a dual-pane panoramic sunroof for the HTK+ Turbo 1.5 variant only. Notably, existing features like 16-inch alloy wheels, steering mounted controls, cruise control, rear defogger, rear washer and wiper, power folding ORVMs, 8-inch touchscreen infotainment screen, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, projector fog lights and others remain unchanged.
With the introduction of these new automatic variants, Kia aims to provide more options to customers while maintaining the Seltos’ appeal as a feature-packed and versatile SUV in the Indian market.
Kia Motors entered the Indian market with the launch of Seltos on 20 June 2019. The Compact SUV was launched in the highly competitive segment. It rivals other players such as the Hyundai Creta, Tata Harrier, MG Hector, Skoda Kushaq and Volkswagen Taigun.
Seltos is offered in three engine options. For those seeking performance, a 1.5-litre T-GDi petrol engine if offered which produces about 160 horses and 253 Nm of torque. No manual option is offered with this engine. Buyers can choose a 6-speed iMT or a 7-speed DCT.
A 1.5 liter petrol engine is also offered which makes less power and focuses more on fuel efficiency. This engine produces 115 hp and 144 Nm of torque. This engine comes mated with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed IVT.
For the diesel-heads, Kia Seltos offers a 1.5 liter CRDi diesel engine that pumps out 116 hp and 250 Nm of torque. Paired with either a 6 speed manual or a 6 speed AT.
The ex-showroom prices of Kia Seltos start at Rs. 10.90 lakhs for the base trim and go up to Rs. 20.30 lakhs for the top-end variant.
The Seltos prioritizes safety with a robust structure, six airbags as standard, ABS with EBD, ESC, hill-start assist, and a suite of electronic driver aids. The ADAS features in the 2023 facelift further elevate safety standards by providing a total of 17 features including forward collision warning, lane departure warning, blind spot collision warning and many more.
Overall, the Kia Seltos is a compelling choice for the compact SUV segment. It offers a stylish design, a feature-rich cabin, a variety of engine options, and a strong focus on safety. With its competitive pricing, the Seltos is an appealing option, especially for those seeking a feature-packed and well-rounded SUV.