Explore the 2024 Kia Seltos Base Model: Updates, Features, and Price
The Kia Seltos stands out as a top-tier, feature-packed, and muscular SUV in its segment. Today, we delve into the details of the Kia Seltos base model, specifically the HTE diesel variant, to provide a comprehensive overview of its features, updates, and pricing.
What’s New in 2024?
The 2024 Kia Seltos brings some notable changes and updates. Previously, the diesel base model did not offer a manual transmission. However, with the latest updates, you can now get a diesel engine with a manual gearbox in the base variant. Additionally, the black color option, which was not available before, is now offered for the Seltos, adding more choices for buyers.
Price Overview
The Kia Seltos offers a wide range of pricing across its variants. The petrol base model starts at an ex-showroom price of ₹10,99,000. The top-end Seltos model can go up to approximately ₹22,00,000. For the HTE diesel base model specifically, the ex-showroom price is ₹12,39,000. If you are considering the on-road price in Lucknow, this Seltos diesel variant costs around ₹14,50,000.
Bold Exterior Design
The Kia Seltos showcases a muscular and appealing design from the front. It features a prominent Kia logo and a black “Tiger Nose” front grille. Projector headlamps are provided, though this base model does not include DRLs (Daytime Running Lights). You will find standard indicators and parking lights. The lower grille is black, complemented by a silver skid plate at the front, which adds to its robust appearance. Proper engine guard is also visible. Dual wipers and washers are placed on the windshield.
From the side, the base model is equipped with 16-inch steel rims, adorned with silver wheel covers. A key safety feature, disc brakes, are provided on all four wheels as standard. The tires have a profile of 205/65 R16. Black cladding runs along the side profile, and roof rails are present. The ORVMs (Outside Rear View Mirrors) are manually adjustable and foldable. The base Seltos model comes with a flip remote central locking key, which includes buttons for lock, unlock, and boot unlock.
The rear view of the Seltos is equally impressive. It features a central Kia logo and connected taillights, although only a specific part of them illuminates. The indicators are integrated into these taillights. The Seltos badge is prominently displayed. This particular variant does not include a rear wiper or defogger. However, a high mount stop lamp and a shark fin antenna are standard features from the base model. The black rear bumper includes reflectors and four reverse parking sensors. A muscular silver skid plate is also found at the rear. The ground clearance for the Kia Seltos is 190 mm.
Practical and Spacious Interior
Stepping inside the Seltos, the dashboard is fully blacked out, with subtle silver inserts surrounding the AC vents. In this base model, an audio system is not factory-fitted and would need to be installed separately. A significant safety highlight is the standard inclusion of six airbags across all variants. All four power windows are available. The driver’s seat offers height adjustment for optimal comfort. The seats are upholstered in a fabric material. The door trims are black and feature a silver finish for the door opener, along with bottle holders.
For rear passengers, the Seltos provides convenience with rear AC vents and a small storage space. Two Type-C USB charging ports are also available. The Seltos ensures good legroom and headroom, making it comfortable for passengers. While two adults can comfortably sit in the rear, a third person can also adjust, though it might be a bit snug. Child locks are present on the rear doors for added safety.
On the driver’s side, you will find controls for all four power windows and lock/unlock buttons. The ORVMs are manually adjusted. The driver’s seat can be adjusted for both height and recline. Standard pedals for the manual transmission (accelerator, brake, clutch) are present, along with a dead pedal. A lever for opening the bonnet is located on the side. Switches for traction control, idle start/stop, and headlamp adjustment are also available.
The Seltos features a digital instrument cluster. The steering wheel carries the Kia logo and includes controls for the Multi-Information Display (MID), but it does not have audio controls since an audio system is not standard. The steering wheel is tilt-adjustable. Manual controls for headlamps and wipers are provided. The MID shows various essential information such as fuel gauge, temperature, speed, RPM, trip details, and the AdBlue (urea) level for the diesel variant.
The Seltos comes with manual AC controls, allowing adjustment of airflow, fan speed, and temperature. Below the AC panel, there is a 12V charging outlet, a Type-C USB port, and a small storage area. The car is equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission, with an automatic option also available. The area around the gear lever has a grey finish. Two glass holders and a manual handbrake are included. A central armrest with storage space is a standard feature, even in the base model. The glove box is a normal type and not cooled. A manual IRVM (Inside Rear View Mirror) and a sunglass holder are also present. The roof lights are yellow, and the passenger side sun visor includes a vanity mirror, while the driver’s side has a ticket holder.
Convenient Boot Space and Dimensions
The Kia Seltos offers a generous 433 liters of boot space, providing ample room for luggage. A parcel tray is not included and would need to be installed separately. The rear seats are 100% foldable, offering flexibility for carrying larger items. The spare wheel is a 16-inch steel rim with the same tire size as the main wheels.
In terms of dimensions, the Kia Seltos measures 4365 mm in length, 1800 mm in width, and 1645 mm in height. It has a wheelbase of 2610 mm. The fuel tank capacity is 50 liters. For the diesel variant, it requires both diesel and AdBlue (urea). The Seltos is available in various appealing color options, including White, Blue, Black, Red, Silver, and Olive Grey.
Engine Options and Performance
The Kia Seltos offers a selection of powerful engine choices:
- 1.5-liter Turbo Diesel Engine: This engine produces 116 BHP of power and 250 Nm of torque. It delivers an approximate mileage of 20 kmpl.
- 1.5-liter Petrol Engine: This option offers 115 BHP of power and 144 Nm of torque.
- 1.5-liter Turbo GDI Petrol Engine: This more powerful petrol engine generates 157 BHP of power and 253 Nm of torque, with an estimated mileage of 17-18 kmpl.
Advanced Safety Features
The Seltos is well-equipped with a comprehensive set of safety features as standard:
- ABS with EBD (Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
- Six Airbags
- Reverse Parking Sensors
- Speed Alert System
- Seat Belt Warning
- Engine Immobilizer
- Crash Sensor
- Traction Control
- TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)
Final Thoughts
The 2024 Kia Seltos base model, particularly the HTE diesel variant, proves to be a strong contender in the compact SUV segment. It comes with significant updates such as the availability of a diesel manual option and a new black color choice. With its muscular design, comfortable and practical interior, and a host of standard features including six airbags and all-around disc brakes, it offers great value. While an audio system and a reverse parking camera would need to be added post-purchase, the essential features are well-covered, making it a compelling choice against competitors like the Elevate and Grand Vitara.
