The Kia Seltos is managing to grab a lot of attention, and for the right reasons. The premium B-SUV set to go on sale in August has created a lot of hype and anticipation around it. It will compete with the likes of Hyundai Creta, Renault Duster, Renault Captur and Nissan Kicks. With an expected price range of INR 11-17 lakh, the competition will likely include the Tata Harrier and MG Hector C-SUVs as well.
The Kia Seltos really needs to pack something really special to set itself apart from others, and it has got that part right. Let’s have a look at the top five elements that set the Kia Seltos apart from its rivals:-
1. Extensive engine-transmission combination options
The Kia Seltos takes the game one level up in this aspect by offering three engine options and four different transmissions. The most basic engine option is a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol unit (115 PS/144 Nm) paired with a 6-speed MT or a CVT. The second engine option is a 1.5-litre turbocharged diesel unit (115 PS/250 Nm) linked to a 6-speed MT or a 6-speed AT. The top-of-the-line option is a 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol unit (140 PS/242 Nm) available with a standard 6-speed MT or an optional 7-speed DCT.
The fuel economy rating of the Kia Seltos ranges from 16.1-20.8 km/l depending on the configuration selected.
Kia Seltos - Fuel Economy Ratings
- 1.5L petrol-MT - 16.4 km/l
- 1.5L petrol-CVT - 16.3 km/l
- 1.5L diesel-MT - 20.8 km/l
- 1.5L diesel-AT - 17.8 km/l
- 1.4L petrol-MT - 16.1 km/l
- 1.4L petrol-DCT - 16.2 km/l
2. Head-up display (segment-first)
The convenience feature of a head-up display is something which is not new for the Indian market, as many luxury cars have been available with this feature from many years. However, for a locally manufactured affordable model like the Kia Seltos, it's a segment-first.
The Kia Seltos' head-up display projects some of the vital real-time driving details on an 8-inch transparent panel so that the driver doesn't require taking eyes off the road and look at the instrument panel. This eases the driving experience while on the go. Prior to the arrival of Kia Seltos, the Toyota Prius was the most affordable car to have this feature.
3. 10.25-inch HD touchscreen infotainment system (biggest in segment):-
While 7-inch touchscreen infotainment systems are common in its segment, the Kia Seltos packs a much bigger, 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. This unit offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, navigation and UVO connected vehicle technologies.
The large size of the display will make parking with the assistance of the SUV's around view monitor very easy.
4. Bose premium 8-speaker system (segment-first)
The Kia Seltos is the first SUV in its category and will be the most affordable model in the Indian market till date to feature a premium sound system sourced from Bose. The previous generation Renault Koleos had a sound system from Bose, but now that it has been discontinued, the Kia Seltos will be the most affordable model to have one. Also, while other SUVs in its segment are featuring a total of six speakers including tweeters, Kia has gone one level up by offering a total of eight speakers.
5. All wheel disc brakes
The Kia Seltos has disc brake on all the four wheels. Currently, the only premium B-SUV offering the same is the Maruti S-Cross. Interestingly, the Kia model features red brake callipers for a sportier styling.
