Kia Seltos HTX Diesel

Are you in the market for a new car in India? We know how many things cross your mind: What's my budget? Is it safe for my family? How much will I spend on monthly maintenance? Does it have all the latest features? And what about the company's service network?

It's a lot to consider, but don't worry, we're here to help you navigate the exciting world of car buying. Today, we're putting a spotlight on a vehicle that has consistently won hearts and minds in the compact SUV segment: the new Kia Seltos, specifically the popular HTX Diesel variant. This car combines style, performance, and a host of features that make it a compelling choice for Indian families. Let's dive deep and see if the Kia Seltos HTX Diesel is your next ride!

Main Highlights of Kia Seltos HTX Diesel

Engine Specifications

• Engine Type: 1.5L CRDi VGT Diesel Engine
• Maximum Power: 116 PS @ 4,000 rpm
• Peak Torque: 250 Nm @ 1,500 - 2,750 rpm
• Transmission Options: 6-speed Manual Transmission or 6-speed Automatic Transmission (Torque Converter)
• Fuel Efficiency (ARAI): Up to 20.7 kmpl (Manual) and 19.1 kmpl (Automatic)

Design Overview

The Kia Seltos has always been a head-turner, and the latest iteration takes it up a notch.

• Exterior: The Seltos HTX Diesel boasts a refreshed, bolder design. It features Kia's signature Tiger Nose grille, updated LED DRLs that extend into the grille, revised LED headlamps, and a striking connected LED tail lamp design across the tailgate. The sculpted lines and stylish alloy wheels give it a commanding road presence.
• Interior: Step inside the Seltos HTX Diesel and you're greeted by a premium, feature-rich cabin. The dual-tone interior (often Black and Beige/Brown) creates an airy feel, while the well-laid-out dashboard, high-quality materials, and comfortable seating ensure a pleasant experience for both driver and passengers.

Key Features (HTX Trim)

• Integrated 10.25-inch HD Touchscreen Infotainment System with Navigation
• 10.25-inch Digital Instrument Cluster
• Kia Connect with 67 Connected Car Features
• Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Panoramic Sunroof
• Ventilated Front Seats
• Wireless Phone Charger
• Automatic Climate Control
• Ambient Lighting
• Rear Sunshade Curtain
• Rear View Camera with parking sensors
• Paddle Shifters (with Automatic Transmission)

Ground Clearance

The Kia Seltos HTX Diesel offers a generous 190 mm of ground clearance, which is perfect for tackling Indian roads and occasional rough patches without worry.

Boot Space

You get a practical 433 litres of boot space in the Seltos HTX Diesel, which is ample for your weekend luggage, grocery runs, or family trips.

Dimensions

• Length: 4,365 mm
• Width: 1,800 mm
• Height: 1,645 mm

Powertrain Options for Kia Seltos

While we are focusing on the Seltos HTX Diesel, it's good to know the Seltos lineup offers a variety of engine choices to suit different preferences:

• 1.5L Naturally Aspirated Petrol: Available with 6-speed Manual or IVT (Intelligent Variable Transmission).
• 1.5L Turbo Petrol: Available with 6-speed iMT (Intelligent Manual Transmission) or 7-speed DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission).
• 1.5L CRDi VGT Diesel: Available with 6-speed Manual or 6-speed Automatic Transmission (Torque Converter) - This is what you get in the HTX Diesel.

Safety Features

Safety is paramount, and the Seltos HTX Diesel comes packed with features to keep you and your loved ones secure:

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

NCAP Rating Table

The updated Kia Seltos has shown significant improvement in safety:

Rating Body	Adult Occupant Protection	Child Occupant Protection
Bharat NCAP (Facelift Model)	5 Stars	5 Stars
Global NCAP (Pre-Facelift Model)	3 Stars	3 Stars

Rivals of Kia Seltos HTX Diesel

The Kia Seltos operates in a highly competitive 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)

Advantages (Pros):

• Powerful & Refined Diesel Engine: The 1.5L diesel engine offers excellent performance, good low-end torque, and impressive fuel efficiency, making it ideal for both city and highway driving.
• Smooth Automatic Transmission: The 6-speed torque converter automatic is very smooth and responsive, adding to driving comfort, especially in traffic.
• Premium & Feature-Rich Cabin: The interior feels upmarket with its large screens, panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, and connected car tech, offering a truly modern experience.
• Striking Design: The Seltos continues to be one of the best-looking SUVs in its segment, with its bold and contemporary styling.
• Improved Safety Rating: The 5-star Bharat NCAP rating for the facelifted model is a huge confidence booster for safety-conscious buyers.
• Kia Service Network: Kia has rapidly expanded its service network in India, offering good accessibility for maintenance and service.

Disadvantages (Cons):

• Rear Seat Space: While adequate, the rear seat space isn't the most generous in the segment, especially for three adults on longer journeys.
• Ride Quality: The suspension can feel a bit firm over sharper bumps and potholes, though it handles well otherwise.
• Some Top Features are Exclusive to Higher Trims: While HTX is feature-packed, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and 360-degree camera are reserved for the top-end GTX+ and X-Line variants.

Conclusion

The Kia Seltos HTX Diesel emerges as a truly compelling package for Indian car buyers. It blends a powerful and efficient diesel engine with a stunning design, a feature-rich and comfortable cabin, and now, a commendable 5-star Bharat NCAP safety rating. It ticks most boxes for someone looking for a premium, reliable, and stylish compact SUV.

If budget, safety, modern features, and strong performance are high on your priority list, the Seltos HTX Diesel should definitely be on your shortlist. We highly recommend you head to your nearest Kia dealership for a test drive to experience its appeal firsthand. Happy car hunting!