Here Are Five Changes Made To The 2021 Kia Seltos

Kia earlier announced that the updated Seltos with the brand’s new monogram will be launched in the first week of May. Apart from the new logo, Kia will also add new bits and an additional transmission option. Now, the updated units have started reaching dealerships and a few of them have started to accept bookings as well. 

In case you’re interested in the new Seltos, this report could come useful for you as we explain the five changes that are made to the SUV:

Brand’s New Logo

One of the most important changes in the 2021 Seltos is the new Kia logo. It’s present on the hood, tailgate, hubcaps, steering wheel, and basically wherever the old logo was placed. To know more about Kia’s new brand identity, click here. 

A New Feature

The top-spec GTX+ automatic variant has been equipped with a new feature: paddle shifters. It comes in handy when you want to have some fun behind the wheel, especially around steep inclines or during overtakes. Also, select features from the top-spec variant have been introduced lower down the line, which brings us to the next point. 

Feature Rejig

• Earlier offered from the HTX variant, climate control and sunroof will now come from the third-from-base HTK+. 

• One can remotely start the engine using the keyfob from the HTK+. 

• Important safety features such as vehicle stability management, electronic stability control, brake assist, and hill start assist will now be present from the HTX variant onwards. Earlier, only the GTX and GTX+ used to come with these features.  

Addition of Clutchless Manual 

The Seltos’ 115PS 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine will be equipped with a 6-speed clutchless manual transmission (iMT). This is the first time this transmission is being offered with a naturally aspirated petrol engine (it was earlier limited to the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol). That said, this particular powertrain will be limited to the mid-spec HTK+. 

The 1.4-litre turbo-petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engines should remain unchanged.

Expected Price And Launch

Kia has said it will launch the Seltos in the first week of May. Meanwhile, a dealer source has also confirmed that prices will be revealed on May 4, but looking at the pandemic situation, delays are likely.

Taking into account all the updates, certain variants could be priced above the current model that retails from Rs 9.89 lakh (ex-showroom). The Seltos will rekindle its rivalry with the Hyundai Creta, Tata Harrier, MG Hector, Mahindra XUV500, VW Taigun, and Skoda Kushaq.