An In-Depth Review of Kia Seltos: Performance, Design, and Pricing
Welcome to this detailed review of the Kia Seltos, a compact SUV offered by Hyundai's sister company. After over a year of personal use, I'll share my insights on this car, focusing on its design, performance, and value for money. Whether you're a fan of compact SUVs or just looking to make an informed decision, this review is for you.
Design and Looks
The Kia Seltos stands out with its aggressive design, inspired by the "tiger nose" feature seen in Hyundai models. The front grill creates a strong, dynamic look that matches the car's exterior. This aggressive stance is prominently marketed, making the Seltos easily recognizable. Despite the similarities with other Hyundai cars, the Seltos’s unique design appeals to those who prefer something different from the Creta or other widely available models.
Performance and Price Comparison
When it comes to performance, the Seltos offers a convincing yet straightforward driving experience. After 1.5 years of driving, I've come to appreciate its practicality and comfort. The car performs well on highways, delivering a smooth and quiet ride. Surprisingly, the fuel efficiency is quite impressive, averaging 20-21 kmpl on the highway, which is a significant improvement over some of the more conventional hatchbacks I've driven. The only close rival in terms of price and features is the Hyundai Creta, with the Creta being slightly more expensive but a more common sight on the road.
Driving Experience and Comfort
Despite the occasional long-distance trips, from 3500 kilometers, the Seltos has proven to be a reliable and comfortable vehicle. The smooth suspension and plush seats make long journeys a breeze, allowing passengers to rest easily without compromising on the adventure. This comfort is a standout feature, making it a preferred choice over the Creta, which, while also offering a comfortable ride, is seen more as a practicality choice in the market.
Engine Options and Technology
The Seltos comes with three engine options, providing buyers with a range of choices. The 1.5-liter diesel and 1.4-liter turbo petrol engines offer excellent performance and are well-specified. The top trim comes with attractive exterior kits and full LED lamps, giving it a sporty look that draws attention on the road. Additionally, the Seltos offers a blend of high infotainment technology and overall quality, making it a great choice for those who prioritize these features.
Direct Competition
In terms of competition, the Seltos is directly pitted against models like the Hyundai Creta, Hyundai Hector, and others such as the Tata Harrier. While the Creta and Hector offer similar features, the Seltos provides a unique blend of performance and design. The Seltos is known for its firm yet sporty handling, whereas the Hector offers a softer ride. Both models incorporate LED lighting, but the Seltos with its exterior kits stands out even more on the road.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Purchasing the Kia Seltos is a worthwhile decision, given its balance of design, performance, and value for money. While it may not embody the enthusiasm of the Hyundai model lineup, it offers a reliable and comfortable travel experience. For those who prefer less common or unique offerings, the Seltos is a standout choice. However, for city-centric drivers, it's recommended to opt for the automatic variant, which can offer a smoother ride in urban environments.