Kia Seltos: In a nation full of compact SUVs that clog every street, the Kia Seltos has miraculously found a way to stand out. “Whenever the Seltos goes on the road in India, all eyes are on it.”
It’s not just the way it looks (though that certainly won’t hurt), but the way it mixes style, performance, tech and comfort into a package that feels far more premium than its price tag would have you believe.
Let’s unpack what is driving the Kia Seltos to vie so competitively in the mid-size SUV segment — and where it still has space to improve.
Design: Aggressive, Spor ty and Unique
The Seltos scores full points in the looks category. Whether you’re looking forward to it or behind it, it’s obvious that Kia put some thought into this one.
Its long face, signature ‘Tiger Nose’ grille and sleek LED headlamps coupled with sharp lines all work together to create an aggressive, contemporary look.
As a road presence, it’s undeniable — particularly in the GT Line and X-Line trims, and with their blacked-out elements and sportier alloys. It’s a high-class SUV without coming off too strong.
Inside, Utility Meets Luxury
Inside, the Seltos does not disappoint. There’s a feeling of quality in the cabin, which is nicely composed of soft-touch materials, appealing accents and intelligent layout choices.
The dashboard is a clean, practical layout with a big 10.25-inch infotainment screen at the top (if you pay extra for near-top-spec ‘Exclusive’ trim) that joins neatly to the instrument cluster.
Space is ample — there is lots of head- and legroom for all four seats. At 433 litres the boot is plenty big enough for weekend luggage or your weekly shop.
And don’t get me started on the ventilated seats, air purifier and BOSE sound system — all game changers at this price point.
The Drive: Choices to Fit Any Driver
Seltos’ greatest powertrain advantage So Pent-up demand will not be the only negotiating point.
If you like petrol, diesel, turbocharged punch or automatic convenience, there’s probably a Seltos that’s right for you.
1.5L petrol (naturally aspirated) – responsive and very drivable for quick city runs
1.5L turbo petrol – it’s pretty zippy and positive with plenty of get up on the highway
1.5L diesel – thrift and torque, well-suited for hunkered down travelling folks
The range of transmissions are manual, iMT (clutchless manual), IVT (CVT), 6-speed torque converter, and there is even a 7-speed DCT for the turbo petrol model.
The ride quality is well judged — neither too firm nor too soft. It takes potholes and sharp turns in stride, although some may find it feels a tad firm over rougher roads, especially on the sportier trims.
Features Galore
Kia knows Indian buyers love their features, and the Seltos is no holds barred. Highlights include:
Panoramic sunroof
360-degree camera
ADAS level 2 (in one of the newer versions)
Ventilated seats
Wireless charging
Ambient lighting
Dual-zone climate control
The infotainment system works with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though not wirelessly in some trims — you’d think, it being 2025, they’d validate that checkmark.
Safety: Getting Better
The Seltos Has Your Safety in Mind The upgraded Seltos is now safer than ever with an available of up to six airbags, ESC, hill assist control, and ADAS tech on higher trims.
Kia has also designed structural upgrades for the new model to address issues identified by its original Global NCAP test.
Yet a stronger safety rating would add an extra layer of confidence. This is still one of the few places where rivals can make you feel a lot more cosseted, the Hyundai Creta and Maruti Grand Vitara aside, that is.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Modern style both inside and out
Variety of engines and gearboxes
Packed with premium features
Cabin is comfortable with plenty of space in it
Slick infotainment operation Smooth infotainment experience
Now with ADAS and more safety tech
Cons:
Stiffer ride on some variants
Some important features are buried on base trims
No wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto on lots of trims
Lingering buyer anxieties about safety concerns from the past
Not available with AWD for those who like to get out and adventure
Kia Seltos: Conclusion: An Integrated Offering
The Kia Seltos is not only boldly styled, but it also has substance, versatility and attention to detail to back it up. Whether you are a city dweller, a highway driver or simply someone who enjoys being saturated in tech, there is to be a Seltos for you.
It’s not a looker, it certainly isn’t perfect, but it’s a compact-SUV that feels way more premium than it should, which is also exactly why it’s become the favored family car of India.
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