Kia made a grand debut in India by carpetbombing the midsize SUV segment with its first offering – the Seltos. This is an SUV that comes with a wide variety of engine and transmission options, an expansive list of features and, with prices ranging between Rs 9.89 lakh and Rs 17.34 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), it covers a wide range of price points. With a choice of three engines, four transmissions and multiple trim levels, the Seltos caters to a wide spectrum of customers, and it’s no surprise that, in just a few months, it emerged as the bestselling SUV in the country. But just how deserving is it of the customer’s trust? We put both the petrol and diesel variants through an exhaustive road test to see how good it is in the real world.
The Seltos is offered under a HT (Tech) Line and a GT Line, with four variants each. The range comprises three engines which get two transmission options each, and 13 colour schemes (including five dualtone options). All variants get basic kit like dual airbags, ABS with EBD, parking sensors, four disc brakes (base 1.5-litre petrol has only front), projector headlamps, Bluetooth audio system, steering controls, rear AC vents, driver-side armrest and remote key entry.
The 1.5-litre petrol is available only in the higher mid-spec HTX (Tech Line) which comes with features like auto LED headlamps, a 10.25-inch touchscreen with Android and Apple connectivity, UVO connected apps, auto-dimming inside mirror, climate control, cruise control, air purifier, 17-inch alloys, electric folding mirrors, camera, and rear wiper and washer. The top-spec diesel-manual is the HTX Plus that adds a Bose sound system, a sunroof, ventilated seats, wireless charging and some more features. However, despite its price of Rs 15.34 lakh (ex-showroom, India), it misses out on side and curtain airbags, as well as ESP.
The 1.4-litre turbo-petrol manual and automatic are available only in the GT Line which is the sportier of the two trim lines. The top-spec GTX plus is available with the turbo-petrol manual and automatic, and diesel automatic. Over the top-spec diesel manual, it gets six airbags, ESP, a heads-up display, rain-sensing wipers; the automatics also get multidriving modes and traction control.
By offering multiple options to buyers, Kia has created one of the most confusing variant mixes in recent times.
Kia’s 10.25-inch touchscreen is easy to read but it’s not the best in terms of response or touch-sensitivity. Earlier batches had a software glitch where the screen would suddenly go blank, but this problem has now been solved. You get the option of two to three split displays, and that proves to be useful during navigation. Improving usability further are the touch-operable shortcut controls beneath the screen.
While most users will be happy using Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, higher variants also get the SIM-based UVO connected tech, which offer roadside assistance and concierge services at the press of a button placed on the inside mirror.
All it takes is one drive in the Seltos to make you an admirer. This car is so well packaged, it has everything this segment demands. The multiple engines and transmission combinations mean buyers have a wide range of options to choose from too. Those who enjoy driving will love the turbo-petrol, while the ones who cover more miles will be happy with the frugal diesel engine. The Seltos drives well too. Its interiors set a new benchmark in the segment when it comes to quality and fit-finish. The car is spacious, comfortable and practical, and it is loaded to the brim with premium features, many of which are segment-firsts. So for the money, the Seltos is a package that’s really hard to fault. If we had to nitpick, we’d say it doesn’t feel as robust as rivals like the Renault Duster or the larger Tata Harrier. The ride is a bit on the stiff side, and the variant mix is extremely confusing. But none of these are real deal-breakers for those seeking a posh, modern and urban SUV. This is a quality product by Kia that represents outstanding value for money. It’s no surprise then that the Seltos won our Car of the Year 2020.
from Autocar India - Cars https://ift.tt/2xKuAs0
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