The New Kia Seltos Arrives As A Serious Competitor To The Volkswagen T-Roc
Kia has officially revealed the significantly updated version of its popular Seltos SUV to the global market. This model has served as a key player in their lineup for several years and sits perfectly between the smaller Stonic and larger Sportage. The latest refresh brings the vehicle much closer in style and technology to its newer siblings in the brand portfolio. Automotive journalists have quickly identified this sharp crossover as a formidable rival to the Volkswagen T-Roc.
The front end receives the most dramatic changes with a completely new grille design that commands attention. The headlights now feature a unique signature that the brand refers to as Star Map lighting. This design choice gives the vehicle a distinct and futuristic presence on the road at night. The front bumper has also been redesigned to look cleaner and more aerodynamic than before. These updates help the car look wider and more stable which enhances its rugged appeal.
Moving to the back the designers have implemented connected tail lights that span the entire width of the tailgate. This styling trend is becoming very popular in the premium segment and adds a sophisticated touch to the rear profile. The backup lights and rear reflectors have moved to the lower bumper area to keep the main lighting cluster clean. New alloy wheel designs are available to complement the fresh exterior colors offered for this model year. The overall profile remains boxy yet modern enough for stylish urban driving.
Drivers will notice a major transformation immediately upon entering the cabin. The centerpiece is a large panoramic curved display that sits prominently atop the dashboard. It houses two large screens that seamlessly handle driving data and entertainment functions. The center console has been tidied up by removing the bulky mechanical gear shifter found in previous iterations. A sleek rotary dial now controls the transmission which creates more storage space for personal items.
Technology upgrades extend far beyond just the screens and updated dashboard layout. The new Seltos includes improved voice recognition and the capability for over the air software updates. Passengers can enjoy a quieter ride thanks to the use of additional sound deadening materials throughout the chassis. Ambient lighting options allow owners to customize the interior atmosphere to their specific liking. These features aim to provide a luxury experience at a price point that undercuts luxury competitors.
Powering this compact SUV is a choice of robust engines designed for versatility and efficiency. The turbocharged variant now produces more power to allow for confident highway passing and acceleration. A smooth eight speed automatic transmission pairs with this engine to ensure optimal performance in various driving conditions. There is also a standard naturally aspirated engine available for those prioritizing reliability and lower running costs. The driving dynamics have been tuned to balance everyday comfort with sporting agility.
Safety remains a top priority for the manufacturer with this latest release. The vehicle comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of active driver assist systems to protect occupants. Features include blind spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking to prevent accidents before they happen. The adaptive cruise control system works with navigation data to adjust speed safely in curves. These additions make the Seltos one of the smartest options currently available in its class.
Please let us know what you think about the design changes of the new Kia Seltos in the comments.
