Kia Seltos is one of the best-selling models from the South-Korean brand in our market. It was the first offering of the automaker in India and helped it set its foot firmly on our shores. The model is also on sale in international markets and was due for an update. The brand has taken the wraps off the 2023 Kia Seltos facelift at the LA Auto Show, and it carries aesthetics now. It is the SUV’s first-ever mid-cycle update. It is quite a noticeable one with enough changes to keep it distinctive from the model it will replace and the contenders in its segment. Thankfully, changes are not just limited to sheet metal. Updates also include a revamped dashboard layout with a better equipment list.
Starting with aesthetics, the nose now dons a tighter setup with a redesigned tiger nose grille, enhanced with a brushed aluminium finish. The headlamp design is altered as well, and new LED DRLs extend into the grille. The bumper is re-tailored and thus comes in a new design for fog lamp housings. Step toward the sides, a rather cluttered design for 18-inch alloy wheels is used.
Interestingly, they sport a diamond-cut finish and make the side profile look fresh. The glass area remains unchanged, and so does everything else, making the silhouette feel familiar. Nevertheless, the overall styling feels spruced up now. Thanks to a resigned boot lid with Star Map lights, the rear facet is neat to look at. Tail lamps are connected like the Carens.
On the inside, the cabin uses a darker theme, with things continuing to be as is, except for a new setup for the instrument cluster and touchscreen infotainment unit. The former is an all-digital unit now with a large 10.25-inch display, fixed in the same panoramic console as the 10.25-inch touchscreen unit. The feature list is updated as well, with ADAS making its way to the Seltos now.
For the US market, the Seltos get two engine options – 1.6L turbo-petrol and 2.0L NA petrol. Also, an AWD system with a lockable centre diff is on offer. For our market, outgoing engine options with new emission norm compatibility will be on offer. However, if the company offers the AWD system or not will only be confirmed at the launch, which is likely to happen at the 2023 Auto Expo.
