Did you know that the Seltos nameplate is used for three different models? Besides the standard SP2 model, which we have here in Australia, the company also designed a smaller version of the crossover (SP2), which is sold in emerging markets. Finally, there is a KX3 model, stretched and reserved for Chinese drivers.
The Seltos is still a pretty fresh model. The Australian version debuted in 2019 and now competes in a really crowded segment, where you can find names like Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-30, and Toyota C-HR. Despite the tough competition, it has a few aces up its sleeve, which helps Kia Seltos stand out from the crowd. This model is practical, with a larger cargo area than HR-V, but it is also well-equipped and looks stylish.
The First Generation of Kia Seltos
The Kia Seltos has been in production for just three years. It arrived in Australia in 2019, and we haven't seen too many changes since then. This small crossover shares most parts with Hyundai Kona, though it is slightly bigger and more practical. It measures 2,630 millimetres in wheelbase, with its overall length going up to 4,370mm. The width is 1,800 millimetres, and the overall height is 1,620mm.
Kia Seltos Dimensions
- Wheelbase: 2630mm
- Height: 1615mm
- Length: 4370mm
- Width: 1800mm
- Ground clearance: 177mm
- Turning circle: 10.6m
As we've just mentioned, this crossover comes in three variants, designed for specific parts of the world. Interestingly, there are also sub-variants of the standard SP2 model, and one of them is developed for the Australian market. Compared to models offered in Noth America and Europe, it comes with a few suspension tweaks to suit Australian roads better.
Still, there's nothing intriguing about this suspension setup. You will find a typical MacPherson strut at the front, while the rear axle utilises a good old torsion beam. It's a simple setup, but other models in the segment offer similar design solutions. All in all, the ride quality is good. It’s a little bit on a firm side, but every Kia Seltos review we've read claims the same – that this crossover deals with road imperfections pretty well. The car is stable, and there isn't much body roll in corners. On the other hand, steering feedback could be better.
Kia Seltos Interior
This crossover has several strong points, and cabin design is one of them. The model's above-average size for the segment reflects on the interior as well. You will find a surprisingly large amount of leg and headroom. This is one of the rare models in the class that accommodates adults in both rows with ease.
The boot space is also impressive. You get around 433 litres behind the second row of seats in higher grades. On the other hand, the base model comes without a spare tyre, with a boot that goes up to nearly 500 litres. For comparison, that’s more than you get in a much bigger and more expensive Kia Sportage (466 litres).
With the rear seats down, the cargo volume goes all the way up to 1,393 litres.
Engines
Two powertrain options are available for this model in Australia. If you pay the base Kia Seltos price, you will get a 2.0-litre inline-four petrol engine, good for about 110kW and 180Nm of max torque. What's important to know is that this is an Atkinson-cycle engine (frequently used by Toyota), which features a slightly different design from standard Otto-cycle engines. We will skip the theory and just say that the throttle isn't as responsive, but the fuel economy is way better.
Which Kia Seltos trim level is fuel efficient?
A CVT gearbox comes in pair with this Atkinson cycle engine – another design solution that has a highly positive effect on fuel economy, so it’s no wonder that this is one of the most economical models in the class (among petrol-powered). The company claims 6.8 L/100km for the 2.0L Kia Seltos.
In higher grades, this crossover can be equipped with a 1.6-litre turbo-four engine, which features a max output of 130kW and 265Nm of torque. Also, this engine comes with a fast-shifting 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, sending power to all wheels. This setup offers notably better performances but not as fuel-efficient.
Kia Seltos 2.0 Specs
- Engine Capacity: 1999cc
- Number of cylinders: inline-four
- Forced induction: -
- Fuel Type: Regular Unleaded Petrol
- Maximum power: 110kW
- Maximum torque: 180Nm
- Transmission: CVT
- Fuel consumption: 6.8L/100km (combined)
Kia Seltos 1.6T Specs
- Engine Capacity: 1591cc
- Number of cylinders: inline-four
- Forced induction: Turbocharger
- Fuel Type: Regular Unleaded Petrol
- Maximum power: 130kW
- Maximum torque: 265Nm
- Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch
- Fuel consumption: 7.6L/100km (combined)
Kia Seltos Grades
There are seven grades offered for the Kia Seltos – S, S with Safety Package, Sport, Sport with Safety Package, Sport Plus, Sport Plus DCT, and GT Line.
The base Kia Seltos S comes with a pretty long list of standard equipment. Among exterior features, you will find body-coloured bumpers, handles and side mirrors, as well as roof rails and rear spoiler. On the inside, the list of standard features includes power windows, ambient lighting, two 12V power outlets, one USB port etc. An 8-inch touchscreen is also standard, as well as wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, 6-speaker audio system etc.
The Seltos S with Safety Package adds exterior features like electric-folding side mirrors with mounted side indicators. At the same time, there are also several advanced driver aids, such as upgraded cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, forward collision warning, driver attention alert etc.
The Kia Seltos Sport loses safety features from the Safety Package but adds fog lights and an upgraded steering wheel with shift knobs. Still, the most significant upgrade is probably the bigger 10.25-inch touchscreen, which comes with built-in navigation. Apple CarPlay voice recognition is also on the list of standard equipment.
Logically, the Sport with Safety Package brings back familiar safety features from the S with Safety Package model.
Seltos Sport Plus is the next grade, and it adds a few convenience features, such as heated side mirrors, LED interior light and rear privacy glass.
All grades from above come equipped with a 2.0-litre inline-four and CVT transmission. The Sport Plus model can be fitted with the turbo-four as well, and that version is called Seltos Sport Plus DCT because this engine is coupled with a dual-clutch transmission instead of CVT.
The Kia Seltos GT Line comes only with the turbo-four and brings few extra features. Some of the highlights are complete LED lighting (headlights, daytime running lights, and taillights), silver door handles, rain-sensing wipers, to name a few. On the inside, the list of exclusive features includes a 7-inch digital instrument cluster screen, head-up display, wireless charging, 8-speaker BOSE audio system, heated and ventilated front seats, second-row air vents, and many more.
Which Kia Seltos model is the best?
We believe that the best value lies with the Kia Seltos Sport with Safety Package. It is a well-rounded grade, which will satisfy most drivers. It comes packed with all the driver aids you need, as well as with a decent amount of tech features. If you want better performance, the Seltos Sport Plus DCT should be your pick.
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By Nebojsa Grmusa