The highly anticipated next-generation Kia Seltos is gearing up for its official Indian debut on January 2. Following its recent unveiling, the popular SUV is already open for bookings across the country. Kia, the South Korean automaker, anticipates a significant surge in the model's popularity with this update, banking on its refreshed design and enhanced cabin features.
What's New in the 2024 Kia Seltos?
The new-generation Seltos boasts a comprehensive set of design and feature upgrades, both on the outside and inside the cabin. However, a closer look reveals that the version destined for Indian showrooms will not be equipped with several notable features that are offered in the international markets. This discrepancy spans across comfort, convenience, and even mechanical specifications.
Key Global Features Absent in India-Spec Seltos
Indian customers will miss out on a host of premium functionalities. The list includes a powered tailgate, which offers hands-free convenience, especially useful when carrying loads. For colder climates, the international model benefits from a heated steering wheel and heated front seats, amenities not deemed necessary for the predominantly warm Indian climate, though the India-spec model retains ventilated seats for cooling.
Another notable omission is the powered Boss mode. This feature allows rear-seat passengers to electrically adjust the front passenger seat to maximize their legroom, adding a layer of luxury and comfort for those being chauffeured.
Major Mechanical Differences
The most significant divergence lies under the hood. While the global Seltos lineup includes a modern hybrid powertrain, the Indian variant continues with the familiar 1.5-litre petrol and diesel engine options. This hybrid version in international markets also comes with a Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) feature, enabling the car to power external electronic devices—a tech common in EVs but rare in hybrids.
Furthermore, driving dynamics see a difference with the all-wheel-drive (AWD) drivetrain being available globally. The India-spec Seltos, however, remains a front-wheel-drive-only vehicle for now. It remains to be seen if Kia will introduce this option in India at a later stage.
Despite these omissions, Kia India is confident that the new Seltos, with its updated design and feature set tailored for the local market, will continue to be a strong contender in the competitive midsize SUV segment when it hits the roads on January 2.
