Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

• Engine Type: 1.5L CRDi VGT Diesel Engine
• Cubic Capacity: 1493 cc
• Maximum Power: 114 bhp at 4000 rpm
• Maximum Torque: 250 Nm at 1500-2750 rpm
• Transmission: 6-speed Manual
• Mileage (ARAI-certified): Around 20.7 kmpl (Manual)

Design Overview

The Kia Seltos has always been known for its striking looks, and the facelift has only enhanced its appeal.

Exterior

The Seltos HTK (O) Diesel boasts a bold and modern stance. It gets Kia's signature 'Tiger Nose' grille, flanked by sharp LED DRLs (Daytime Running Lights) and projector headlamps. The muscular bonnet, silver roof rails, and chunky wheel arches give it a commanding road presence. At the rear, the connected LED tail lamps, part of the facelift, really make it stand out, especially at night. It's a design that looks premium and ready for anything.

Interior

Step inside, and you're greeted by a clean, driver-centric cabin. The HTK (O) variant offers a well-appointed interior with fabric upholstery, a comfortable seating position, and good visibility all around. The dashboard design is modern, with physical buttons for essential controls that are easy to reach and use. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of the top models, it feels well-built and ergonomic.

Key Features

The HTK (O) variant strikes a good balance between essential features and value.

• Infotainment Screen: 8-inch Touchscreen with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay (wired)
• Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB, FM
• Climate Control: Manual Air Conditioning
• Other notable features in HTK (O):
• Rear View Camera
• All Power Windows
• Steering Mounted Audio Controls
• Keyless Entry
• Rear AC Vents
• Automatic Headlamps
• Advanced features available in higher Seltos variants:
• Electric Sunroof
• 360-degree Camera
• Wireless Charging
• Automatic Climate Control
• Ventilated Seats
• Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)

What is the Ground Clearance of Kia Seltos?

• Ground Clearance: 200 mm

This ample ground clearance ensures the Seltos can handle most Indian road conditions with ease, including speed breakers and uneven surfaces.

What is the Boot Space of Kia Seltos?

• Boot Space: 447 Litres

A generous boot space means you'll have plenty of room for luggage on those weekend getaways or your weekly grocery haul.

What are the Dimensions of Kia Seltos?

• Length: 4360 mm
• Width: 1830 mm
• Height: 1635 mm
• Wheelbase: 2690 mm

Powertrain Options

While we're focusing on the Diesel, it's good to know the Seltos offers a versatile range of engines:

• 1.5L CRDi VGT Diesel: 6-speed Manual or 6-speed Automatic (torque converter)
• 1.5L Smartstream MPi Petrol: 6-speed Manual or IVT (Intelligent Variable Transmission)
• 1.5L Smartstream GDi Turbo Petrol: 6-speed iMT (Intelligent Manual Transmission) or 7-speed DCT (Dual-Clutch Transmission)

Safety Features

Kia has significantly bolstered the Seltos's safety credentials, especially with the facelift.

• Standard Safety Features:
• 6 Airbags
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
• Hill-start Assist Control (HAC)
• Vehicle Stability Management (VSM)
• All-Wheel Disc Brakes
• Rear Parking Sensors
• Emergency Stop Signal
• Higher variant safety features: Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) like Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keep Assist, etc.

NCAP Rating Table

The safety of the Seltos has seen a remarkable improvement with its latest iteration.

The 5-star Bharat NCAP rating for the facelifted Seltos is a huge confidence booster for buyers, affirming its robust build and enhanced safety.

Rivals of Kia Seltos HTK (O) Diesel

The compact SUV segment is fiercely competitive. The Kia Seltos HTK (O) Diesel goes head-to-head with some strong contenders:

• Hyundai Creta (its close cousin)
• Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
• Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder
• Skoda Kushaq
• Volkswagen Taigun
• MG Astor

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Let's sum up what makes the Seltos HTK (O) Diesel a strong contender and where it might fall short.

Pros

• Strong Diesel Engine: The 1.5L diesel is refined, offers good low-end torque for city driving, and excellent fuel efficiency on highways.
• Striking Design: The facelifted Seltos looks fantastic, with a premium and sporty appeal that stands out.
• Enhanced Safety: With 6 airbags as standard and a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating, it offers peace of mind.
• Spacious Cabin: Good space for five adults, with decent legroom and headroom.
• Comfortable Ride: The suspension is well-tuned to absorb bumps, providing a comfortable ride for most conditions.
• Feature-Rich (for its segment): The HTK (O) offers essential connectivity and convenience features at an attractive price point.
• Kia's Service Network: Kia has rapidly expanded its service network in India, offering good after-sales support.

Cons

• No Automatic Diesel in HTK (O): If you prefer an automatic diesel, you'll have to look at higher variants.
• Missing Premium Features: While HTK (O) is good value, it misses out on features like a sunroof, wireless charging, and automatic climate control, which some rivals offer in similar price brackets.
• Firm Ride (for some): While generally comfortable, some might find the suspension a tad firm over very broken roads.
• Rear Centre Tunnel: A slight tunnel in the rear floor can make seating three adults in the back a bit less comfortable on longer journeys.

Conclusion

The Kia Seltos HTK (O) Diesel emerges as a very compelling package for prospective car buyers in India. It successfully blends a modern, head-turning design with a robust and fuel-efficient diesel engine, impressive safety features (especially the 5-star Bharat NCAP rating), and a comfortable, practical cabin. While the HTK (O) variant doesn't get all the high-end bells and whistles, it provides an excellent balance of core features and value for money, making it a smart choice for those who prioritize performance, safety, and stylish looks without breaking the bank. If you're looking for a diesel SUV that can handle city commutes and highway cruises with equal aplomb, offers peace of mind with its safety, and looks sharp doing it, the Kia Seltos HTK (O) Diesel definitely deserves a spot on your test drive list. It's a true all-rounder that continues to solidify Kia's strong presence in the Indian market.