In the run-up to its global debut tomorrow, Kia Motors has released a new teaser of the Seltos SUV, previously known by its codename SP2i. Such is the importance of the new SUV for the Korean brand that it will be unveiled simultaneously in India and the US.
The teaser video of the Kia Seltos confirms a number of design details we had reported earlier – from the bold ‘Tiger Nose’ grille, LED headlights (that are neatly connected by an LED light bar on top) and vertical LED fog lamps, to the five-spoke diamond-cut alloy wheels and LED tail-lights. Kia is expected to provide dual-tone colour options (essentially a contrast roof colour) on higher variants of the Seltos, along with a sunroof and roof rails. The small wing mirrors on the Kia SP Signature concept (which previewed on the production Seltos) have been replaced by larger units with integrated turn indicators.
Interior details that are now confirmed include a three-spoke steering wheel with buttons for cruise control and the audio system, a climate control system and analogue dials for the speedometer and tachometer. Front parking sensors, which will mark a segment-first, will also be on offer.
While the teaser does not reveal which engine powers the Kia Seltos, we know that it will be equipped with a 1.5-litre petrol and a 1.5-litre diesel engine; both expected to get manual and automatic gearbox options. Seeing as the tachometer in the teaser shows the rev-counter closing on the 6,000rpm mark and a chrome-finished gear knob being shifted, one can assume that the model in the video is the Seltos petrol-manual. However, there may be a sportier version in the works as well; one that will be powered by a 140hp, 1.4-litre turbo-petrol paired to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.
The teaser also shows the Seltos SUV traversing some rough terrain. Whether this is meant to tease the possibility of an all-wheel-drive version, a version with drive modes (for different road conditions and terrains like the Harrier), or just that the Seltos is capable off the road cannot be determined yet.
When it launches in India, the Kia Seltos is expected to be priced in the Rs 11-16 lakh range (ex-showroom), which means it will face the Hyundai Creta, Renault Captur, Nissan Kicks and the Tata Harrier. Its higher variants will rival the more affordable versions of the Jeep Compass and MG Hector.
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