autoX Awards 2023: Kia gave the Seltos a nip-and-tuck job this year in order to bring it up to date in the face of competition from fresher rivals. But it wasn’t just a cosmetic update, for the new Seltos is significantly different in almost every department. The biggest change of ’em all, however, is the new 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, which, quite frankly, has made the Seltos a hoot to drive.
With 158bhp and 253Nm of torque on tap, the Seltos’ new turbo-petrol motor is a powerhouse. Not to mention, it’s the most powerful SUV in its segment. Kia claims that from a standstill you will see 100km/h appear on the speedo in under 9 seconds, and that’s quick by all standards. In fact, that makes it quicker than the BMW X1 in a straight line!
Also Read: 2023 Kia Seltos SUV Review: Taking the Fight to Hyundai Creta and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
What we love about this engine, or rather this drivetrain – the test car had a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic – is that it has got grunt for all occasions. You can barely catch it napping. The driveability is impressive, and the shift quality is seamless. Not to mention, the refinement is exemplary.
As for its handling, the Seltos didn’t disappoint us in this aspect as well. The handling is tidy, grip levels are good, and the body control is taut. Kia has tweaked the suspension of the new Seltos – the front setup is stiffer, while the rear has been softened a bit – and the overall balance is great. The ride at low speeds can be a bit jittery, though, which is partly down to its large 18-inch wheels.
Similarly, when you push it to the limit – which we did at the track – it does tend to be a little unwieldy – especially during quick direction changes, there’s a bit of hesitation. Its weight is evident when you’re hustling it around bends. The steering offers good feedback, but it does feel vague at times. The high-speed stability, though, is impeccable, and the braking performance is strong, thanks to disc brakes on all four wheels.
All told, the Kia Seltos more than makes up for its minor flaws with its long list of features, stunning aesthetics, and premium interior. It’s a complete package for a buyer looking for everything – from performance to good design and practicality. Sure, it’s a little pricey after the update, and it may not be for everyone, but, then, you do get what you pay for.
- Kia Seltos (Lap Time: 01.15.6)
| PARAMETERS | POINTS | SCORE |
|---|---|---|
| QUALITY | 5 | 4 |
| COMFORT / SPACE | 5 | 3.5 |
| REFINEMENT | 5 | 4 |
| DESIGN | 5 | 4 |
| DRIVETRAIN | 5 | 4 |
| RIDE & HANDLING | 5 | 3 |
| PRACTICALITY | 5 | 4 |
| X FACTOR | 20 | 12 |
| LAP TIME | 15 | 7.1 |
| VALUE FOR MONEY | 30 | 18 |
| TOTAL | 100 | 63.6 |
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