2024 Kia Seltos facelift now in Indonesia, unveiled at GIIAS 2024 from RM123k, CKD coming to Malaysia?

KUALA LUMPUR: Kia Motors has unveiled the latest version of the Seltos at the upcoming Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) 2024. This new model is a refreshed version of the Seltos, which was first introduced in Indonesia back in 2020.

"Since its debut in Indonesia in 2020, the Kia Seltos has been a pioneer in the compact SUV segment, known for its abundant driving features and turbocharged engine. We have maintained these qualities in the refreshed version, which now offers 1.5L and 1.5L turbo engine options, along with active safety features (ADAS) and a range of modern comfort enhancements," said Ario Soerjo, Marketing & Development Division Head of PT Kreta Indo Artha (KIA).

The turbo engine performance has been a key attraction of the Seltos since its introduction in Indonesia. In the latest version, the Kia Seltos is available in two variants: Premiere 1.5 Turbo and Premiere 1.5L petrol. The Premiere Turbo variant features a Smartstream G 1.5 T-GDI engine with 160 PS and 253 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The non-turbo variant uses a Smartstream G 1.5 engine with 115 PS and 144 Nm of torque, coupled with an 8-speed iVT transmission.

The Kia Seltos with a 1.5L naturally aspirated (N/A) engine is priced at IDR 425 million OTR (RM123k), meanwhile, the turbocharged engine option is sold for IDR 525 million OTR(RM152k) in Jakarta.

From a design perspective, the new Seltos retains the signature Tiger Nose grille, refreshed with a modern twist. It features LED lighting with star map lighting, 17-inch alloy wheels, and 215/60 tires, enhancing its sporty and contemporary look.

The interior exudes luxury and spaciousness, highlighted by a panoramic sunroof. The dashboard features a panoramic wide display with a 10.25-inch screen for the meter cluster and head unit, along with a head-up display that provides additional driving information.

Additional features of this new SUV include 8-way power-adjustable seats, front ventilated seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, wireless charging, and an electric parking brake. The Turbo variant boasts more features with the inclusion of ADAS, which includes Smart Cruise Control with Auto Stop and Go, Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist, Manual Speed Limit Assist, High Beam Assist, Safe Exit Warning, and Driver Attention Warning.

The new Kia Seltos comes in five colour options: Aurora Black Pearl, Gravity Gray, Sparkling Silver, Glacier White Pearl, and Pewter Olive. To ensure peace of mind for customers, Kia offers a 7-year or 200,000-kilometer vehicle warranty.

 

The previous Kia Seltos was available in three variants—E, EX, and EXP—with prices ranging from IDR 342 million(around RM99k) to IDR 407 million(around RM118k). 

In Malaysia, the Kia Seltos faced challenges due to a transitional phase where Kia Malaysia was shifting its distributorship from NAZA to Dinamikjaya Motors, a subsidiary of the Bermaz Auto (Bauto) group. This period of uncertainty impacted the Seltos' reception. When the Seltos received a facelift in 2022, the new distributors chose not to bring the updated model to the Malaysian market.

However, there are rumors that the upcoming version of the Seltos might be a game-changer. There is even speculation about the possibility of local assembly in Malaysia. Only time will tell if these plans come to fruition.

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