The new Kia Seltos arrives in South Africa

What is it?

The latest Seltos is a new generation model rather than a facelift. It is built on Kia’s K3 platform and follows the brand’s Opposites United design philosophy. Positioned in the compact SUV segment, it is aimed at buyers seeking distinctive design and everyday usability. The local line‑up includes five grades, namely LS, LX, GT‑Line, GT‑Line S and X‑Line, with three different engines.

Exterior:

The exterior design has been reworked to give the SUV a bolder presence. At the front, Kia’s Star Map LED lighting is paired with an animated welcome sequence. Flush fitting door handles improve aerodynamics and sharpen the profile. A strong shoulder line and floating roof design add movement to the silhouette, Kia claims. At the rear, vertical LED tail lamps stretch across the tailgate to emphasise width. The X‑Line derivative is distinguished by a matte Dark Gun Metal Grey finish and black alloy wheels, while a wide colour palette is available across the range.

Interior:

The cabin has been redesigned with a low horizontal dashboard to improve visibility and create a sense of space. Display technology varies by grade, starting with a 10.25-inch infotainment screen on LS models and moving to a 12.3-inch display on LX and above. GT‑Line S and X‑Line add a fully digital 12-inch instrument cluster, creating a twin screen effect. A panoramic sunroof is available from GT‑Line upward, while ambient lighting with 64 colours allows customisation. Rear passengers benefit from generous legroom and split folding seats, and the boot provides 447 litres of load space with a dual level cargo floor.

Powertrains:

Three engines are offered. The 1.5 litre MPI petrol produces 85kW and 144Nm, paired with either a six-speed manual or CVT, and is available on LS, LX and GT‑Line. The 1.5 litre CRDi turbodiesel delivers 85kW and 250Nm, paired with a six-speed automatic, and is offered on GT‑Line and X‑Line. The 1.5 litre T‑GDi turbopetrol produces 119kW and 253Nm, paired with a dual clutch transmission, and is exclusive to the GT‑Line S. All models feature selectable Eco, Normal and Sport drive modes.

Range:

The LS serves as the entry point with alloy wheels, six airbags, stability control, rear park distance control and wireless smartphone integration. The LX adds front park distance control, a larger display, dual zone climate control and Smart Key. GT‑Line models introduce design accents, 18-inch wheels, panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting and wireless charging. GT‑Line S and X‑Line adds ventilated front seats, power adjustable driver’s seat, Bose sound system and advanced driver assistance features. The X‑Line is further distinguished by its exclusive exterior finish and two-tone interior.

Price:

The Seltos 1.5 LS manual is priced at R389 995, while the LS CVT costs R414 995. The LX CVT is R464 995. The GT‑Line CVT is R514 995 and the CRDi GT‑Line automatic is R544 995. The GT‑Line S with the T‑GDi engine is R614 995, and the CRDi X‑Line is also R614 995.