Completely redefining a class of vehicles would be a Herculean task, to say the least, but that’s what Kia Motors India did. Kia Seltos, named after Celtos, son of Hercules, made its world premiere on June 20 in New Delhi, India, where the millennial-focused compact SUV proved itself to be as bold and spirited as its name.
For the world premiere of the Seltos, all Kia fans from around the world joined through the Kia Motors India website to hear just how a vehicle should be designed: by holding onto the tradition while braving and embracing change.
The SUV Tradition Held So Dearly
SUVs have been traditionally marketed as outdoor and sporting vehicles, and customers have come to expect two things from an SUV: sturdy performance and muscular design. So how does the Seltos measure up? Perfectly.
The Seltos comes equipped with third-generation powertrains for high efficiency and powerful performance. All powertrains are engineered with Kia’s Smartstream technology for improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions. The vehicle is available with a 1.6-liter T-GDI turbocharged gasoline engine producing 177 PS, with a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine producing 149 PS, and with a 1.6-liter diesel engine producing 136 PS. Depending on the market, the Seltos will be offered with up to three automatic transmission options to suit virtually every need and driving style – a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (7DCT), a six-speed automatic transmission (6AT) and a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Seltos’ distinctive look is truly pleasing to the eyes. Kia’s trademark grille design, the ‘tiger-nose grille’, harmonizes well with the vehicle body’s vigorous shoulder line and glasshouse shape reminiscent of a leopard. The Seltos is your archetypal Sport Utility Vehicle, at once robust and dashing.
What the Future of SUVs Holds
Time has changed and people have come to expect more from their SUVs. A car is no longer a means of transportation but a family space you share with your dearest companions. SUVs, in particular, are expected to provide uncompromising space and comfort for all passengers. And this compact SUV provides you just that. Its lounge-like cabin allows you to sit more comfortably so you can drive yourself or your loved ones with maximum safety and minimum fatigue.
The already dexterous Seltos is full of little details tailored to youthful and tech-savvy customers. It boasts outstanding connectivity and its futuristic devices quench every driver’s thirst. For example, the 8.0-inch Head-Up Display system unobtrusively puts all the driving information right before your eyes. A 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, the biggest in the segment, and Sound Mood Lighting provide maximum comfort and fun for every passenger. Together with a Bose sound system, UVO Connect telematics, and countless other features, Seltos promises to elevate your driving experience to another level.
The Complete SUV Experience
So there you have it, all of the time-honored traditions of an SUV with boldly adapted driver-friendly and technology-driven features. The Seltos is expected to be available in global markets in the second half of 2019. So get ready for a whole new SUV paradigm with Kia!