Kia unveiled the second-generation Seltos after six years. Following global trends, a 1.6 hybrid model was also added to the lineup.
Kia on the 10th premiered the all-new Seltos (The all-new Seltos, hereafter Seltos) for the first time through a world premiere video. The Seltos world premiere video, themed "The Protagonist" (the protagonist), introduces the Seltos as a vehicle that leads the lives of people who live like protagonists through active self-expression and challenges, showing that Seltos will become the protagonist leading the compact SUV market.
Song Ho-sung, president of Kia, said, "Seltos has always offered the best-in-class value, and the newly introduced model will continue its reputation with standout design and product qualities that meet customers' needs," and noted, "We plan to expand our presence in the global SUV market through Seltos."
Seltos, based on Kia's design philosophy "Opposites United" (creative convergence of opposing concepts), adds a futuristic image to the solid style of a traditional SUV to reveal a distinctive presence.
The front emphasizes a strong, wide image with a radiator grille that integrates with the lamps and harmonizes with a vertical grille pattern to complete a dynamic first impression. The majestic grille contrasts with the sleek design of the Starmap signature lighting to create a recognizable Kia family look at a glance, and the Starmap signature lighting incorporates uniquely designed daytime running lights (DRL) to leave a strong impression. The lower bumper features a wide skid plate with a garnish of stable shape to further accentuate a robust appearance.
The side presents a distinctive silhouette with a sturdy image and diagonal character lines that further maximize the dynamic feel, while bold cladding along the lower body and door side sills create an advanced SUV style. The rear implements a clean, stable image through lamps that naturally connect to a wide tailgate, and the tail lamps, extending horizontally and vertically, convey the vehicle's solidity while delivering a modern atmosphere.
The design-focused trim Seltos X-line emphasizes a more dynamic and bold image. The front applies a bumper design that maximizes volume with pocket-type garnishes at the lower left and right and emphasizes a wide track through a skid plate. It also creates a high-tech image with a radiator grille pattern combined with the daytime running light pattern, and the rear bumper gives a sense of unity with a design consistent with the front.
The Seltos interior creates a sophisticated and futuristic atmosphere based on a spacious, simple layout, and, through high space utilization, is designed as a versatile area that encompasses various lifestyles. The cluster, designed to match the vehicle's beltline, gives a balanced and clean feel, and the dashboard and air vents are applied in a horizontal design to deliver a roomy, comfortable space beyond its class.
A panoramic wide display equipped with a 12.3-inch cluster, 5-inch climate control, and 12.3-inch infotainment system that flow smoothly together makes the front interior feel even more spacious. A column-type electronic shift lever increases console space usability and operational intuitiveness, and a windshield-type head-up display (HUD, Head-Up Display) improves visibility. Ambient lighting applied as simple linear elements on the doors, console, and crash pad provides a delicate feel, and the subtle indirect lighting that stretches across the crash pad creates a luxurious and cozy environment.
Seltos reflects Starmap lighting on the inner doors and console to provide unity with the exterior design while creating an exotic atmosphere, and it maximizes interior openness by expanding spatial feel with a panoramic sunroof. The seats add a unique touch by reflecting a two-tone that contrasts with the modern image, and relaxation comfort seats are installed for the driver and front passenger, with reclining seats in the rear to enhance convenience.
Seltos has 536 liters (VDA standard) of luggage space and secures storage convenience by adding a two-level luggage board that can move up and down in the luggage area, and enhances space utilization with Kia AddGear, which can equip various storage spaces and accessory hooks.
Seltos will be offered with two powertrains: a 1.6 hybrid and a 1.6 turbo gasoline.
Kia newly added a 1.6 hybrid engine with excellent fuel efficiency to Seltos to meet the needs of customers seeking economy and environmental value and to broaden vehicle choice.
The Seltos hybrid model applies in-cabin V2L (Vehicle to Load) so customers can experience electrification-specific technologies previously available only in electric vehicles, and it improves efficiency by equipping the smart regenerative braking system 3.0.
The 1.6 turbo gasoline model delivers strong driving performance with a maximum output of 193 horsepower and maximum torque of 27.0 kgfm, and the 4WD model is equipped with a terrain mode that enables stable and efficient driving across various road surfaces. Terrain mode allows the user to select the most suitable driving mode among snow, mud, and sand according to road conditions to optimally control the vehicle.
Seltos strengthens crash safety performance with a multi-skeleton structure designed to disperse energy during collisions and increases robustness by expanding the application of ultra-high-strength steel to the body. In addition, it enhances safety by equipping nine airbags, including second-row side airbags and a center side airbag.
In addition, quietness was improved by applying block foam between the windshield and hood and increasing the thickness of the door glass to reduce noise entering the cabin.
Kia plans to sell Seltos domestically in the first quarter of next year and to roll it out sequentially in the North American, European and Chinese markets thereafter.
[OSEN]