Kia Motors India has taken the automotive market by storm with the official launch of the much-awaited facelift of its best-selling SUV, the 2023 Kia Seltos. Packed with a host of updates and improvements, the Seltos aims to set new standards in the highly competitive SUV segment. With a starting price of Rs 10.89 lakh (ex-showroom), the 2023 Seltos aims to take on its closest rival and the segment champion, the Hyundai Creta, and the all-new Maruti Suzuki Grand-Vitara.
The base variant of the Kia Seltos is the “HTE” trim, which offers a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine with a 6-speed manual transmission, capable of producing 115 PS of power and 144 Nm of torque. It is priced at Rs 10.89 lakhs. Moving up the ladder, the “HTK” variant is available at Rs 12.09 lakhs, and the “HTK+” trim is priced at Rs 13.49 lakhs, offering added features and upgrades. The “HTX” trim takes it up a notch with a price of Rs 15.19 lakhs and offers even more advanced features.
For those seeking more power and performance, the 1.5-liter T-GDI Turbo engine is an option. This engine generates 158 bhp of power and 253 Nm of peak torque. The “HTK+” variant with a 6-speed iMT transmission is priced at Rs 14.99 lakhs, while the “HTX+” trim with a 7-speed DCT transmission is priced at Rs 19.19 lakhs. There’s also a higher-end “GTX+” variant with a 7-speed DCT transmission priced at Rs 19.79 lakhs and an even more exclusive “X-Line” trim with the same transmission priced at Rs 19.99 lakhs. These trims are well-equipped with top-of-the-line features and the 1.5-litre T-GDI Turbo engine.
Lastly, the diesel engine options are available for the “HTE,” “HTK,” “HTK+,” “HTX,” and “HTX+” trims. The 1.5-litre diesel engine with a 6-speed iMT transmission delivers 116 PS of power and 250 Nm of torque. It is priced at Rs 11.99 lakhs for the “HTE” trim, and the prices increase progressively with each higher trim level, up to Rs 18.29 lakhs for the “HTX+” trim. The “GTX+” and “X-Line” trims offer the diesel engine option with 6AT transmission and are priced at Rs 19.79 and Rs 19.99, respectively.
The 2023 KIA Seltos facelift boasts a refreshed exterior that catches the eye from every angle. At the front, the SUV features repositioned LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), adjusted headlamps, a larger front grille, and new lower bumper skid plates, giving it a bold and aggressive stance.
On the sides, KIA has revamped the alloy wheel design, with the lower models now sporting stunning 17-inch wheels. The rear of the Seltos is adorned with a connected tail lamp and a redesigned tailgate, adding a touch of elegance and dynamism. The GT Line and X-Line variants further elevate the aesthetic appeal with 18-inch alloy wheels and exclusive cosmetic enhancements.
Step inside the 2023 Seltos, and you’ll be greeted by a plethora of technological advancements and luxurious comfort. One of the highlights is the introduction of the panoramic dual display system, featuring a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment screen and a 10.25-inch digital instrument console. The intuitive voice control now supports multiple languages, allowing for seamless interaction with the car’s various functions.
The center console has undergone a redesign, incorporating physical controls for both the infotainment system and air conditioning, enhancing ease of use. Additionally, the Seltos facelift offers dual-zone climate control, a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, premium leatherette seats, and several other upgrades, ensuring a refined and enjoyable driving experience for passengers.
In terms of safety, Kia is offering the new Seltos with a comprehensive array of standard safety features. The SUV comes equipped with six airbags, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake assist, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), VSM (Vehicle Stability Management), and all four disc brakes, ensuring optimum control and protection on the road. Other safety measures include hill assist control and rear parking sensors, providing added convenience and confidence during parking maneuvers. The higher variants of the Seltos offer additional safety enhancements, such as traction control with modes, ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) level 2 features, a 360-degree camera, and a blind view monitor, making it one of the safest SUVs in its class.
Keyword: 2023 Kia Motors Seltos mid sized SUV launched at Rs 10.89 lakh - Will it beat the Hyundai Creta this time?