The 2024 Kia Seltos facelift, recently launched in India, is positioned to heat up competition in the SUV market, facing off with heavyweights like the Tata Harrier, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, and the ever-popular Hyundai Creta. This updated Seltos brings significant enhancements, including refined aesthetics, interior upgrades, and advanced technology features, making it a top contender in the compact SUV segment.
Refined Design & Interior Updates
The 2024 facelift offers a more dynamic look with a redesigned front bumper, striking LED headlights, and an updated rear bumper. Certain trims now feature new alloy wheel designs and vertical tail lights that echo the modern look of Kia’s newer models. Inside, Kia has revamped the cabin, introducing a twin-screen setup that includes a new curved dashboard display. This model also now features dual-zone climate control and premium upholstery, catering to the comfort expectations of a higher-end SUV.
Engine and Performance Boosts
Kia has introduced a new powertrain lineup to the Seltos. The base engine options remain the same with a 1.5-liter petrol and a 1.5-liter diesel engine; however, the 2024 model adds a new 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine producing 160 hp, replacing the previous 1.4-liter turbo model. This addition promises better power output and fuel efficiency, aiming to provide a balance between performance and economy, a key factor for the competitive Indian SUV market.
Advanced Tech and Safety
One of the most compelling features of the Seltos facelift is its suite of advanced safety and convenience technology, including ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) with features like forward collision warning and lane-keeping assist. The Seltos also supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it a tech-friendly option for modern drivers. Additionally, the inclusion of a panoramic sunroof, enhanced infotainment, and a 360-degree camera provides premium features at a competitive price.
Competitive Landscape
The 2024 Seltos steps into a market crowded with strong rivals such as the Tata Harrier and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara. With Hyundai Creta sharing a similar platform, Kia has added premium touches and tech upgrades to the Seltos to distinguish itself. In terms of pricing, the facelift is slightly higher than the outgoing model, positioning itself as a premium alternative in the compact SUV space while offering features on par with rivals, if not exceeding them in tech offerings.
This strategic facelift by Kia not only renews consumer interest but raises the stakes for competitors, signaling Kia’s intent to dominate the segment with a robust feature set and refined performance options.