Kia introduces the all-new Seltos SUV

KUALA LUMPUR: As promised, Kia has finally taken the covers off its brand new B-segment SUV, the Seltos. The car comes after a long phase of teasing by the South Korean automaker that included the unveiling of some sketches and a design-focused video.

The Kia Seltos made is debut in Delhi, India, where the car is said to be manufactured alongside in Korea. From these two places, the vehicle will then be exported to the global market starting Q2 of 2019.

As was pretty evident from the car’s teaser shots, it carries design and an equipment kit to appeal to the younger audience. A major design highlight is the 2-tire LED headlight with the upper unit linked to the ‘tiger nose’ grille, while the lower part houses the 3D multi-layer turn signals. The customers can opt for the wheels choices from a selection of three - 16-inch with 205/60 16, 17-inch with 215/55 17, and 18-inch with 235/45 18 tyres.

Open the doors, and you will be greeted by a plush looking cabin that is dressed in high-quality materials. On the dash is present the segment-first 10.25-inch touch screen infotainment unit with split screen functionality. This allows the driver to set the screen as per his needs; he/she can either run three apps simultaneously or run a single app like navigation. The optional Sound Mood Lighting system comes with eight customisable colors and six themes that provide many possibilities.

On the power front, the Seltos is offered in three engines ( 2 petrol and one diesel) and three transmission choices. Starting with the former we have a 1.6-litre T-GDI turbocharged mill offering 177 PS and a 149 PS 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated unit, while the oil burner is a 1.6-litre unit with 136 PS. Depending on the market, Kia’s new SUV will be equipped with either a continuously variable transmission, six-speed automatic transmission, or seven-speed dual clutch transmission.

Its safety profile includes six airbags, Vehicle Stability Management system with traction control and electronic stability control. Also, present are hill-start assist and traction control and front and rear parking sensors.