PROS

  • Perky engine
  • Great space efficiency
  • Good warranty cover

CONS

  • Immensely annoying speed warning system
  • Expensive to service
  • Halogen lights are poor

The facelifted 2023 Kia Seltos range has arrived in Australia, boasting new design, interior gear and technological advancements that should help keep it near the pointy end of the highly competitive small SUV segment.

The Seltos rivals small SUVs that have similar intent – practicality in a compact footprint – such as the Toyota Corolla Cross and Nissan Qashqai, both of which are all-new models with forms of hybrid technology available.

The Seltos doesn’t have any hybrid petrol-electric powertrain offered.

2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review

In this test, we’re driving the Sport+ 1.6-litre turbo-petrol version, which could be the sweet spot for those who love a bit of a speedy drive in their compact crossover.

There is a cheaper version with the still very good 2.0-litre engine and CVT auto, but it’s front-wheel drive, so mightn’t suit those who think they’ll actually venture outside the city limits.

No matter which version of the 2023 Kia Seltos Sport+ appeals to you though, it is missing a few crucial items that should be standard for the price – read on to find out more.

WATCH: Paul’s video review of the Seltos GT-Line 1.6T AWD

How much does the Kia Seltos Sport+ 1.6T AWD cost?

You can get into a Seltos Sport+ for $35,800 plus on-road costs, but you won’t be getting the desirable turbocharged petrol engine for that money – the Seltos Sport+ 2.0 FWD model with the CVT automatic transmission is the sub-$36k offer.

But if you can justify the extra spend on the turbo engine, eight-speed auto and all-wheel drive, the Seltos Sport+ 1.6T AWD model comes in at $39,300 plus on-road costs or $41,990 drive-away. So, the difference in list price is a not-insubstantial $3500, or just under 10 per cent of the cost of the non-turbo.

That’s a big step up, and that’s not the end of the extra spending you’ll need to do for this turbo-petrol mill, either; it is more expensive to service, and it needs servicing more regularly, too. More on that further down.

2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review

2023 Kia Seltos pricing ($RRP):

  • Kia Seltos S 2.0 FWD: $29,500
  • Kia Seltos Sport 2.0 FWD: $32,700
  • Kia Seltos Sport+ 2.0 FWD: $35,800
  • Kia Seltos Sport+ 1.6T AWD: $39,300
  • Kia Seltos GT-Line 2.0 FWD: $41,500
  • Kia Seltos GT-Line 1.6T AWD: $44,900

Prices exclude on-road costs

Kia Australia also offers the following nationwide drive-away prices:

  • Kia Seltos S 2.0 FWD: $31,690
  • Kia Seltos Sport 2.0 FWD: $35,390
  • Kia Seltos Sport+ 2.0 FWD: $38,490
  • Kia Seltos Sport+ 1.6T AWD: $41,990
  • Kia Seltos GT-Line 2.0 FWD: $44,590
  • Kia Seltos GT-Line 1.6T AWD: $47,690

2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review

What is the Kia Seltos Sport+ 1.6T AWD like on the inside?

This updated version of the Seltos takes a big step up inside, with new screens and interior tech that makes it feel like a shrunken Sportage or Sorento.

In the Sport, Sport+ and GT-Line versions, the Seltos scores a neat new all-digital cockpit with twin 10.25-inch displays – one for driver info, the other for infotainment. It’s a nice improvement over the still decent setup in the pre-facelift Seltos.

There’s also voice control and the 10.25-inch screen in these versions also has Kia Connect – internet connected satellite navigation, an intelligent voice assistant, and you can control some functions remotely with your phone.

2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review
2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review

Each of the displays is quick to respond, and well thought out in terms of usability.

The fact there’s an array of hard buttons below pleases this tester greatly – touchscreens that control everything aren’t as user-friendly as car companies make them out to be. You’ll find single zone climate control in the button array, too.

Storage is pretty good for loose items – there’s a pair of cupholders between the front seats and a little wallet cubby, plus in front of the shifter there is another deep tray with a shelf on top, which is great for storing your phone (there are USB ports below).

All four doors have bottle holders, and between the outboard rear seats in the Sport+ there’s a flip-down armrest. You don’t get that in the lower grades.

2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review
2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review
2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review
2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review

There’s also just the one seatback (map) pocket, which seems odd. But at least the seatbacks are of the hard-wearing variety, making it suitable for kicking kids.

A big round of applause to Kia for making directional air vents standard on all grades for the update – those were previously only in the GT-Line. Oh, and there are two USB-C charging ports, too. Nice.

There are dual ISOFIX child-seat anchor points, and three top-tether hooks. You’ll fit two child seats in, and a rearward-facing capsule shouldn’t cause too much of an issue for front seat passengers.

If you haul adults more often than youngsters, you’ll comfortably fit two in the back seat, and uncomfortably fit three across. Legroom and headroom despite the latter criticism is exceptional for a small SUV – I’m 6’0” or 182cm, and I can fit behind my own driving position with room to spare.

2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review
2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review

There’s another oddball missing item when it comes to the boot – there is no parcel shelf or cargo cover in any version apart from the top-spec GT-Line. Such a weird omission.

The boot itself is great for the class – there’s 433 litres of cargo volume in the Sport+, and it (like the Sport and GT-Line) has a full-size spare wheel.

The base model S gets a space-saver but scores a deeper boot as a result (468L). Fold down the back seats and you get 1428L of cargo room – very good for the size of the car.

2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review

What’s under the bonnet?

As mentioned, this one is the Sport+ 1.6 AWD, which means it runs the 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder T-GDi petrol engine. It produces 146kW of power (6000rpm) and 265Nm of torque (1600-4500pm) – so it’s outputting the same amount of torque as before but has seen a 16kW power bump for this facelifted model.

But that 12 per cent increase isn’t the best news about this powertrain – that honour falls to Kia’s decision to ditch the frustrating seven-speed dual-clutch auto in favour of a new eight-speed auto.

The 0-100km/h time for the turbo Seltos is claimed at 8.4 seconds, so it’s hardly a hot hatch despite offering a similar power output to a VW Golf GTI (from a decade ago…).

2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review

As mentioned, if you don’t think you need the turbo engine and on-demand all-wheel drive that this Seltos has, you could consider choosing the 2.0 MPi version which has a non-turbo four-cylinder petrol engine producing 110kW (6200rpm) and 180Nm (4500rpm). And it has an actually-not-that-bad CVT auto gearbox, which is going to be perfectly fine for urban dwellers.

All versions of the Seltos have a 50-litre fuel tank, but there’s a difference in terms of economy, as you’d expect. But both engine variants can run on 91 RON regular unleaded, which isn’t always the case for forced-induction models.

Claimed fuel economy:

  • Seltos Sport+ 2.0 FWD – 6.9 litres per 100km
  • Seltos Sport+ 1.6T AWD – 7.4 litres per 100km

2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review

How does the Kia Seltos Sport+ 1.6T AWD drive?

The Seltos is a decent little thing to get around in.

Obviously the big story here is the powertrain, which is one of the more powerful units in the small SUV segment without crossing into the “performance” part of the market.

Suffice to say that while the VW T-Roc R and Hyundai Kona N won’t be shaking in their boots at the performance of the 1.6L turbo Seltos, it’s a willing and punchy engine that is aided immeasurably by its new gearbox.

2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review

Gone is the hesitant and jerky seven-speed dual-clutch (DCT) auto, and in its place is a new eight-speed torque converter automatic, which makes progress considerably smoother and more enjoyable – especially around town.

The transmission shifts smartly, and doesn’t require any thought from the driver in “regular” driving scenarios.

Ask a bit more of the powertrain and you might need to think a bit more about the shifts. There are no paddle-shifters, but there is a Sport drive mode and manual shift using the selector, if you want to pretend you’re driving a manual.

Kia Australia didn’t bother doing any work to the chassis tune for the facelift model – running the same local ride and handling setup as the pre-facelift model. That means it’s still pretty good.

2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review

That said, the steering is one thing I struggle to gel with in the Seltos – it has a bit of a heavy, dull feel to it at higher speeds, which can be a bit hard to get used to. But around town, and during parking moves, it’s simple and predictable.

The suspension is mostly quite comforting, with a nice ride characteristic unless you find yourself running over repetitive bumps or very sharp edges.

But over speed humps, the usual lumps and bumps and higher speed inconsistencies, it remains quite nicely composed. It’s not too loud inside at highway speeds, but coarse-chip surfaces can throw a bit of road roar into the cabin.

2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review

However, the most annoying thing about the driving experience is the speed sign recognition system that will incessantly bing and bong at you, every time the speed limit changes.

To turn it off (I did), you have to go through the media screen and press three different menu screens. You can’t set it as a favourite button, and you have to do it every time you start the car.

If you live in an area where there are dozens of speed limit signs within a five-kilometre radius like I do, it could be a dealbreaker.

2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review
2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review
2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review
2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review

What do you get?

Seltos S highlights:

  • 16-inch alloy wheels
  • Electric folding side mirrors
  • Mirror-mounted side indicators
  • Black Matte grille
  • Body-coloured door handles
  • Halogen headlights, projector type
  • Halogen daytime running lights
  • Dusk-sensing headlights
  • Rear fog light
  • Roof rails
  • Basic digital instrument cluster
  • 4.2-inch multi-function LCD driver display
  • Cloth seats
  • 6-speaker sound system
  • 8.0-inch touchscreen
  • Apple CarPlay (wireless)
  • Android Auto (wired, wireless)
  • Halogen interior lighting
  • Rear air vents
  • Front, rear USB-C charge ports
  • Space saver spare wheel
  • Manual air-conditioning
  • Drive Mode Select
    • incl. Eco, Normal, Sport, Smart
  • 12V outlet in front tray

2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review
2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review

Seltos Sport adds:

  • 17-inch alloy wheels
  • Front fog lights
  • Roof rails
  • Solar Glass
    • Windscreen
    • Front door
  • 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
  • 10.25-inch infotainment system
  • DAB digital radio
  • Kia Connect
  • Satellite navigation
  • Sounds of Nature
  • Wired Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
  • Premium steering wheel, shifter
  • Auto up/down driver window
  • Single-zone climate control
  • Auto defog
    2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review

2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review
2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review

Seltos Sport+ adds:

  • Adaptive cruise control with stop/go
  • AEB with Cyclist, Junction assist
  • Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
  • Cloth/leatherette seat trim
  • Driver Attention Alert
  • Electronic park brake incl. Auto Hold
  • Heated electric side mirrors
  • LED interior lighting
  • Lead Vehicle Departure Alert
  • Rear centre arm rest
  • Rear privacy glass
  • Smart key, push-button start

2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review

Is the Kia Seltos Sport+ 1.6T AWD safe?

It’s safe to say the Sport+ is safer than some of the less expensive models in the range, because it adds a few important and desirable features that the Sport and S grades don’t have.

However, based on 2019 ANCAP testing, the Seltos is a five-star safety performer across the board. The facelifted model retains the same rating.

Standard safety features include:

  • 6 airbags
  • AEB with Pedestrian detection
  • Blind-spot assist
  • Rear cross-traffic assist
  • High Beam Assist
  • Intelligent Speed Limit Assist
  • Lane Following Assist
  • Lane keep assist
  • Safe Exit Warning
  • Front, rear parking sensors
  • Reversing camera
    • incl. dynamic guidelines
  • Driver Attention Alert
  • Rear Occupant Alert

2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review

Seltos Sport adds:

  • eCall function via Kia Connect

Seltos Sport+ adds:

  • AEB with Cyclist, Junction assist
  • Adaptive cruise control with stop/go
  • Leading Vehicle Departure Alert

I can’t really see why Kia couldn’t have added the radar-based systems to all models, in order to keep up with rivals in the class like the Mazda CX-30 and Toyota Corolla Cross.

2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review

How much does the Kia Seltos Sport+ 1.6T AWD cost to run?

The Kia Seltos is covered by the brand’s impressive seven-year, unlimited kilometre warranty.

It also comes with a seven-year capped price servicing plan – but the costs of ownership will depend on whether you choose the turbo or not.

If you do, you’ll find it has shorter service intervals (12 months/10,000km) and more expensive services, too. Over seven years or 70,000km, you’ll pay $308, $500, $373, $651, $346, $630 and $671 – meaning a total cost of $3479. That’s pricey for a non-luxury car.

Let’s compare it to the Seltos 2.0 MPi – you’ll only pay $2072 for 75,000km of cover. So, if you value, er, value, then the non-turbo is a better bet for long-term ownership costs.

As for fuel consumption, the Sport+ 1.6T AWD returned a real-world figure of 9.5L/100km during my week of testing, which isn’t terrific for a small SUV, especially considering almost none of it was “spirited” driving.

2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review

CarExpert’s Take on the Kia Seltos Sport+ 1.6T AWD

You’re getting an impressive compact SUV if you choose the Kia Seltos.

The spec you choose will ultimately determine if it’s a good value offering, and personally, I think the Sport+ grade offers a lot of stuff you should be aiming for when choosing a new car

It’s just a shame it still misses out on LED headlights and daytime running lights, because that would only further the appeal of this variant.

Personally, I’d be more tempted to shop up to the GT-Line, which scores better exterior lighting and a few other niceties that makes it feel more special – and to keep the costs down a bit, I’d choose it with the 2.0 MPi FWD drivetrain.

2023 kia seltos sport+ 1.6t awd review

MORE: Everything Kia Seltos

Keyword: 2023 Kia Seltos Sport+ 1.6T AWD review

CAR'S NEWS RELATED

Kia Carens Turbo DCT Automatic Mileage Test using Tank-to-tank Method w/ Drive Impressions | Nov 2023

November 2023: Team V3Cars shares the fuel efficiency report of the Kia Carens DCT and also the variation in fuel efficiency in city and highway drives. The Carens is available with a 1.5L turbo-petrol engine, which is available with a 6-speed ACMT and a 7-speed DCT. We are testing ...

View more: Kia Carens Turbo DCT Automatic Mileage Test using Tank-to-tank Method w/ Drive Impressions | Nov 2023

Rev Up Your Dreams: BAuto's Exclusive Pre-Owned Carnival – Luxury, Sportiness, and Unbeatable Deals Awaits You!

Step into the world of automotive excellence with Bermaz Auto Berhad (BAuto), your trusted distributor of KIA, Peugeot, and Mazda! Mark your calendars for an exhilarating Pre-Owned Carnival at select BAuto branches on November 25th and 26th. This is your golden ticket to delve into a curated collection of pre-owned ...

View more: Rev Up Your Dreams: BAuto's Exclusive Pre-Owned Carnival – Luxury, Sportiness, and Unbeatable Deals Awaits You!

My Kia Seltos diesel turns 3: Fuel efficiency, service & the first dent

For DPF regeneration, the service centre followed the same procedure that is meant for Hyundai Creta. BHPian dipdawiz recently shared this with other enthusiasts. 3 years and little more than 21500 Km later thought of updating this thread. Done 3rd year service from Advaith Kia Bansankari. Service experience is ...

View more: My Kia Seltos diesel turns 3: Fuel efficiency, service & the first dent

Toyota Urban Cruiser vs Kia Sonet vs Haval Jolion: Here's our winner

The new Urban Cruiser is bigger and better than the model it replaces, but does that mean we would choose it over other competent rivals? Let's compare the Toyota with rivals from Kia and Haval. The Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid is an important product for the Japanese marque, not only ...

View more: Toyota Urban Cruiser vs Kia Sonet vs Haval Jolion: Here's our winner

Kia’s cheaper, smaller EV3 electric SUV spotted testing as EV9’s younger sibling

A smaller, cheaper electric SUV based on Kia’s flagship EV9 is due out next year. Ahead of its launch, the Kia EV3 was spotted testing in South Korea, giving us a good look at the new EV’s actual size. Kia introduced the EV3 concept last week at the 2023 ...

View more: Kia’s cheaper, smaller EV3 electric SUV spotted testing as EV9’s younger sibling

U.S. probes Hyundai, Kia recall into 6.4 million vehicles over fire risks

Companies Hyundai Motor Co Carparts.Com Inc Kia Corp WASHINGTON, Nov 20 (Reuters) – U.S. auto safety regulators said Monday they had opened a probe into 16 separate recalls issued by Hyundai (005380.KS) and Kia (000270.KS) covering 6.4 million vehicles relating to brake fluid leaks that could result in fires. ...

View more: U.S. probes Hyundai, Kia recall into 6.4 million vehicles over fire risks

Hyundai and Kia are ‘pulling ahead’ with strong EV demand despite rival concerns

Despite concerns over a cooling EV market, Hyundai and Kia are “very bullish” as demand for their electric vehicles remains strong. Over the past few months, I’m sure you’ve read headlines like “Automakers overestimated EV demand,” but some believe they are right on track. This includes Hyundai, Kia, and ...

View more: Hyundai and Kia are ‘pulling ahead’ with strong EV demand despite rival concerns

$1B Lawsuit Against Hyundai And Kia Isn't Going Away

A judge rejected the automakers’ motion to dismiss the lawsuit from insurance companies over vehicle thefts.

View more: $1B Lawsuit Against Hyundai And Kia Isn't Going Away

Hyundai, Kia see strong demand for EVs, despite rivals' concerns

Hands-on: The Kia EV9 is huge, but its backseat and frunk are not

Kia launches $20K EV5 electric SUV in China to rival leaders BYD and Tesla

Read About The Refreshed 2024 Kia Sorento For SEO Purposes

Los Angeles 2023: Kia EV3 and EV4 Concepts get North American Premiere

Los Angeles 2023: 2024 Kia Sorento Shows Off New Image

Kia gears up for LA show with 2 concept EVs

Kia shows its EV3 and EV4 concepts at LA Auto Show

Old Kia Sorento Hybrid Will Be Sold Alongside New 2024 Model Next Year

Hyundai, Kia must face insurers' lawsuits over vehicle thefts

Hyundai, Kia EVs Charge The Fastest, Tesla Barely Makes It Into Top 10: Edmunds

Which EVs charge the fastest? Hyundai, Kia, and Porsche lead in new charging test

OTHER CAR NEWS

; Top List in the World https://www.pinterest.com/newstopcar/pins/
Top Best Sushi Restaurants in SeoulTop Best Caribbean HoneymoonsTop Most Beautiful Islands in PeruTop Best Outdoor Grill BrandsTop Best Global Seafood RestaurantsTop Foods to Boost Your Immune SystemTop Best Foods to Fight HemorrhoidsTop Foods That Pack More Potassium Than a BananaTop Best Healthy Foods to Gain Weight FastTop Best Cosmetic Brands in the U.STop Best Destinations for Food Lovers in EuropeTop Best Foods High in Vitamin ATop Best Foods to Lower Your Blood SugarTop Best Things to Do in LouisianaTop Best Cities to Visit in New YorkTop Best Makeup Addresses In PennsylvaniaTop Reasons to Visit NorwayTop Most Beautiful Islands In The WorldTop Best Law Universities in the WorldTop Richest Sportsmen In The WorldTop Biggest Aquariums In The WorldTop Best Peruvian Restaurants In MiamiTop Best Road Trips From MiamiTop Best Places to Visit in MarylandTop Best Places to Visit in North CarolinaTop Best Electric Cars For KidsTop Best Swedish Brands in The USTop Best Skincare Brands in AmericaTop Best American Lipstick BrandsTop Michelin-starred Restaurants in MiamiTop Best Secluded Getaways From MiamiTop Best Things To Do On A Rainy Day In MiamiTop Most Instagrammable Places In MiamiTop Interesting Facts about FlorenceTop Facts About The First Roman Emperor - AugustusTop Best Japanese FoodsTop Most Beautiful Historical Sites in IsraelTop Best Places To Visit In Holy SeeTop Best Hawaiian IslandsTop Reasons to Visit PortugalTop Best Hotels In L.A. With Free Wi-FiTop Best Scenic Drives in MiamiTop Best Vegan Restaurants in BerlinTop Most Interesting Attractions In WalesTop Health Benefits of a Vegan DietTop Best Thai Restaurant in Las VegasTop Most Beautiful Forests in SwitzerlandTop Best Global Universities in GermanyTop Most Beautiful Lakes in GuyanaTop Best Things To Do in IdahoTop Things to Know Before Traveling to North MacedoniaTop Best German Sunglasses BrandsTop Highest Mountains In FranceTop Biggest Hydroelectric Plants in AmericaTop Best Spa Hotels in NYCTop The World's Scariest BridgeTop Largest Hotels In AmericaTop Most Famous Festivals in JordanTop Best European Restaurants in MunichTop Best Japanese Hiking Boot BrandsTop Best Universities in PolandTop Best Tips for Surfing the Web Safely and AnonymouslyTop Most Valuable Football Clubs in EuropeTop Highest Mountains In ColombiaTop Real-Life Characters of Texas RisingTop Best Beaches in GuatelamaTop Things About DR Congo You Should KnowTop Best Korean Reality & Variety ShowsTop Best RockstarsTop Most Beautiful Waterfalls in GermanyTop Best Fountain Pen Ink BrandsTop Best European Restaurants in ChicagoTop Best Fighter Jets in the WorldTop Best Three-Wheel MotorcyclesTop Most Beautiful Lakes in ManitobaTop Best Dive Sites in VenezuelaTop Best Websites For Art StudentsTop Best Japanese Instant Noodle BrandsTop Best Comedy Manhwa (Webtoons)Top Best Japanese Sunglasses BrandsTop Most Expensive Air Jordan SneakersTop Health Benefits of CucumberTop Famous Universities in SwedenTop Most Popular Films Starring Jo Jung-sukTop Interesting Facts about CougarsTop Best Hospitals for Hip Replacement in the USATop Most Expensive DefendersTop Health Benefits of GooseberriesTop Health Benefits of ParsnipsTop Best Foods and Drinks in LondonTop Health Benefits of Rosehip TeaTop Best Air Fryers for Low-fat CookingTop Most Asked Teacher Interview Questions with AnswersTop Best Shopping Malls in ZurichTop The Most Beautiful Botanical Gardens In L.A.Top Best Mexican Restaurants in Miami for Carb-loading rightTop Best Energy Companies in GermanyTop Best Garage HeatersTop Largest Banks in IrelandTop Leading Provider - Audit and Assurance In The USTop Best Jewelry Brands in IndiaTop Prettiest Streets in the UKTop Best Lakes to Visit in TunisiaTop Highest Mountains in Israel