Kia Philippines recently held a special preview for the new Seltos, the Korean brand’s entry into the highly competitive subcompact SUV segment. Held at the Ayala Museum, on display was the mid-variant Kia Seltos EX in the launch color of Pluton Blue. Aside from its improved looks, the refreshed model promises to be safer and smarter, boasting its improved design and ADAS suite features.
“This is a big moment for us,” said Kia Philippines president Toti Zara. “I feel that the future is bright for Kia Philippines, and the new Seltos marks the beginning of an exhilarating chapter as we continue to drive towards automotive excellence in our market. We will remain dedicated to driving innovation, pushing boundaries, and shaping the future of mobility in the Philippines.“
For his part, Brian Buendia, COO of Kia Philippines said, “Our stable of capable SUVs is stronger than ever. Loaded with standout style, some of the latest technology, advanced driver assistance systems, and enthusiastic performance, the Seltos is in a league of its own.”
The new Seltos features a larger grill and new LED headlamps, giving it a stronger and wider appearance. It’s vertical-shaped fog lights are integrated with daytime running lights giving it a cleaner look. At the rear, its tailgate lighting design, backup lamp, and rear reflector on the lower bumper sort of mimics the signature lighting in the front. The Seltos also sports a new geometric design for its 17-inch wheels.
Inside, the Seltos has dual panoramic displays that combine its 10.25-inch instrument cluster and 10.25-inch center display as standard across the variants. Other notable improvements include a new crash pad, a high-tech interface that controls the infotainment and air conditioning features, a panoramic sunroof, dual automatic air conditioning, wireless charging, as well as mood lamps. ADAS features on the top trim level include Smart Cruise Control and Forward Collision Assist.
The new Seltos will come with two powerplant options. The LX and EX variants will be powered by a naturally aspirated Smartstream 1.5L in-line 4-cylinder DOHC gasoline engine that is paired with an intelligent variable transmission. This combination promises 115PS and 144Nm of torque at 4,500RPM. Meanwhile, the top trim SX variant will feature a turbo-charged 1.4L in-line 4-cylinder, direct injection gasoline engine paired with a 7-speed dual clutch gearbox.
The Seltos LX and EX variants come standard with 8” touchscreen audio, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, rear-camera display, driver and front passenger airbags; 6 speakers; and single zone auto air conditioning. The Seltos EX also comes with smart entry + push start, power fold side mirrors and LED headlamps and DRLs. Meanwhile, the top-tier Seltos SX has smart cruise control, lane keeping assist, forward collision avoidance assist, leather seats, powered driver seats, a 10.25” Infotainment touchscreen, Front and side airbags, a panoramic sunroof; wireless charging, 10.25” TFT LCD Instrument Panel, LED Headlamps, LED Foglamps, and LED DRLs.
Each new Seltos comes with a 5-year, 160,000km (whichever comes first) warranty, and is priced as follows: New Kia Seltos 1.5 LX – P1,198,000; New Kia Seltos 1.5 EX – P1,288,000; New Kia Seltos 1.4 Turbo SX – P1,688,000. Available colors include Pluton Blue (launch color), Gravity Gray, and Snow White Pearl, as well as a Snow White Pearl with black roof option for the top-trim SX variant.