KIA South Africa has confirmed the local arrival of the second-generation Seltos, bringing a comprehensively redesigned compact SUV with bolder styling, a fully digital cabin, three engine options and an extensive suite of safety and convenience features.
Built around Kia’s Opposites United design philosophy, the new Seltos is aimed at buyers seeking a distinctive compact SUV that combines striking design with everyday practicality.
The South African range comprises five derivatives — LS, LX, GT-Line, GT-Line S and X-Line — with a choice of three engines, offering everything from efficient urban motoring to a more performance-focused driving experience.
The new Seltos adopts a significantly more assertive design. Up front, Kia’s signature Star Map LED lighting is complemented by an animated welcome-light sequence that activates as the driver approaches the vehicle.
Flush-fitting door handles contribute to the cleaner exterior profile while improving aerodynamic efficiency, while a strong shoulder line and floating-roof design give the Seltos a dynamic appearance.
At the rear, vertically oriented LED tail lamps extend across the tailgate, emphasising the SUV’s wider stance.
The flagship X-Line adds further visual distinction with an exclusive matte Dark Gun Metal Grey exterior finish and full-black alloy wheels. A broader range of exterior colours is available across the rest of the line-up.
Inside, Kia has redesigned the cabin around the driver, with a low-set horizontal dashboard aimed at improving forward visibility while creating a greater sense of space. A console-mounted gear selector and simplified control layout place key functions within easy reach.
Display technology varies according to derivative. LS models receive a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, while LX and higher grades feature a larger 12.3-inch display. GT-Line S and X-Line derivatives add a 12-inch digital instrument cluster, creating a panoramic twin-screen layout.
GT-Line and higher models also benefit from a panoramic sunroof and customisable 64-colour ambient lighting.
Practicality remains a key focus, with rear passengers benefiting from generous legroom and split-folding rear seats. Boot capacity stands at 447 litres, with a dual-level cargo floor providing additional flexibility.
The Seltos is based on Kia’s latest K3 platform, which brings increased rigidity, refinement and improved handling.
South African buyers can choose from three 1.5-litre engines. The naturally aspirated 1.5 MPI petrol produces 85 kW and 144 Nm and is available with either a six-speed manual or intelligent CVT.
The 1.5 CRDi turbodiesel also produces 85 kW, but delivers a stronger 250 Nm of torque and is paired exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission.
At the top of the range is the 1.5 T-GDi turbopetrol, producing 119 kW and 253 Nm. It is paired with a dual-clutch transmission and provides the Seltos with its most performance-oriented powertrain.
All derivatives feature Eco, Normal and Sport drive modes, allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle’s response to different driving conditions.
Connectivity is well covered, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard across the range, alongside Bluetooth with voice recognition, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls and front USB charging ports.
GT-Line S and X-Line models add a Bose premium sound system, while wireless smartphone charging and ambient lighting become available from GT-Line upward.
Pricing
Seltos 1.5 LS Manual R389,995
Seltos 1.5 LS CVT R414,995
Seltos 1.5 LX CVT R464,995
Seltos 1.5 GT-Line CVT R514,995
Seltos 1.5 CRDi GT-Line AT R544,995
Seltos 1.5 T-GDi GT-Line S DCT R614,995
Seltos 1.5 CRDi X-Line R614,995
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