Kia Seltos HTX (O) iVT

Hey car buyers, welcome back to the blog! Are you in the market for a new car, juggling thoughts about your budget, how safe your family will be, the dreaded monthly maintenance costs, and of course, all those snazzy new features? And let’s not forget about reliable after-sales service, right? Finding that perfect balance can feel like a quest.

Well, what if we told you there’s a car that aims to tick most of these boxes, especially in the super-competitive compact SUV segment? Today, we’re diving deep into one of India’s most popular SUVs – the Kia Seltos. Specifically, we’re putting the spotlight on a very appealing variant: the new Kia Seltos HTX (O) iVT. This model has been making waves since its update, promising a blend of style, comfort, and advanced tech. Let’s find out if it’s the right fit for your driveway.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications (HTX (O) iVT)

• Engine Type: 1.5L Smartstream naturally aspirated petrol
• Displacement: 1497 cc
• Max Power: 115 PS at 6300 rpm
• Max Torque: 144 Nm at 4500 rpm
• Transmission: iVT (Intelligent Variable Transmission) – designed for smooth, clutch-free driving and improved fuel efficiency.

Design Overview

The updated Seltos carries a confident road presence, and the HTX (O) iVT variant shines brightly.

• Exterior: The Seltos features Kia’s signature Tiger Nose grille, now larger and more aggressive, flanked by sleek LED DRLs and headlamps. The HTX (O) trim gets stylish 17-inch alloy wheels that perfectly complement its muscular stance. The connected LED tail lamps at the rear give it a distinct and modern identity, especially after dark.
• Interior: Step inside, and you are greeted by a premium and well-appointed cabin. The dual-tone interior theme (black and beige) gives an airy and sophisticated feel. The quality of materials is impressive, and the layout is driver-centric. Everything feels logically placed and easy to reach, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Key Features (HTX (O) iVT)

This variant is packed with features that add convenience and a touch of luxury:

• 10.25-inch HD Touchscreen Infotainment System with Navigation
• Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
• Kia Connect (connected car technology) with over 60 features
• Electric Sunroof (single pane)
• Automatic Climate Control
• Wireless Phone Charger
• Cruise Control
• Push-button Start/Stop
• Ambient Lighting
• LED Projector Headlamps, DRLs, Fog Lamps, and Tail Lamps
• Rear AC Vents
• Drive Modes (Normal, Eco, Sport) and Traction Modes (Sand, Mud, Wet)

What is the Ground Clearance of Kia Seltos?

• Ground Clearance: 190 mm – Ample clearance for Indian roads and tackling minor undulations without a worry.

What is the Boot Space of Kia Seltos?

• Boot Space: 433 litres – Generous space to swallow your weekend luggage or your monthly grocery haul.

What are the Dimensions of Kia Seltos?

• Length: 4365 mm
• Width: 1800 mm
• Height: 1645 mm
• Wheelbase: 2610 mm

Powertrain Options for Kia Seltos

While we are focusing on the HTX (O) iVT, it’s good to know the Seltos offers a range of engine and transmission choices to suit different preferences:

• 1.5L Naturally Aspirated Petrol (115 PS, 144 Nm) with 6-speed Manual or iVT
• 1.5L Turbo Petrol (160 PS, 253 Nm) with 6-speed iMT or 7-speed DCT
• 1.5L Diesel (116 PS, 250 Nm) with 6-speed Manual or 6-speed Automatic

Safety Features

Kia has significantly bolstered the Seltos’s safety package, making it a safer choice than ever before.

• 6 Airbags (Standard across all variants)
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
• Vehicle Stability Management (VSM)
• Hill-start Assist Control (HAC)
• Brake Assist System (BAS)
• All-wheel Disc Brakes
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• Rear Parking Sensors and Camera

NCAP Rating Table

Safety is paramount, and the updated Seltos has a commendable showing:

Rating Agency	Adult Occupant Protection	Child Occupant Protection
Bharat NCAP	5 Stars	5 Stars
Global NCAP (Old Model)	3 Stars	2 Stars

Note: The 5-star Bharat NCAP rating is for the updated Kia Seltos (2023 onwards), making it one of the safest cars in its segment in India.

Rivals of Kia Seltos HTX (O) iVT

The Kia Seltos competes in a fiercely contested segment. Its main rivals include:

• Hyundai Creta
• Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
• Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder
• Skoda Kushaq
• Volkswagen Taigun
• MG Astor

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Pros

• Stunning Design: Both exterior and interior look premium and modern, standing out in its segment.
• Feature-Loaded: Offers a long list of features, including a large infotainment screen, sunroof, and connected car tech, enhancing convenience and luxury.
• Smooth iVT Transmission: The iVT offers a very refined and smooth driving experience, especially in city traffic, without the jerkiness sometimes associated with other automatics.
• Improved Safety: With 6 airbags standard and a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating, it offers peace of mind for buyers.
• Comfortable Cabin: The interior is spacious, comfortable, and well-designed, making long journeys enjoyable.
• Good Ride Quality: Handles bad roads quite well, offering a pliant ride.

Cons

• Naturally Aspirated Engine: While smooth, the 1.5L NA petrol engine might feel a bit underpowered for spirited driving or quick overtakes compared to its turbo-petrol rivals.
• Rear Seat Width: While comfortable for two, a third adult might find the rear bench a bit cramped on longer journeys.
• Fuel Efficiency (iVT): While decent, it might not be class-leading in all driving conditions compared to some mild-hybrid rivals.
• Price Point: The HTX (O) variant, being a higher trim, sits at a premium price point, which might push some buyers towards lower variants or rivals.

Conclusion

The Kia Seltos HTX (O) iVT emerges as a strong contender in the compact SUV segment. It beautifully blends a striking design, a plush and feature-rich interior, and the convenience of a smooth automatic transmission. The significant upgrade in safety, underlined by its 5-star Bharat NCAP rating, is a huge confidence booster for prospective buyers.

While the 1.5L naturally aspirated engine with iVT offers a relaxed and refined drive, those seeking outright performance might want to look at the turbo-petrol variants. However, for the majority of urban and highway commuters looking for a stylish, comfortable, safe, and well-equipped SUV with hassle-free driving, the Seltos HTX (O) iVT makes an incredibly compelling case. It’s a car that truly delivers on its promise of being a sophisticated and capable family SUV. Is it the one for you? We think it definitely deserves a test drive to experience its charm firsthand!