Kia Philippines, unboxed its fourth, and final offering for 2019, and it’s a new crossover, the Kia Seltos. In case you’re wondering, the Seltos name is derived from Greek mythology, from Celtus, the son of the legendary Hercules.
The Looks
The overall design profile is hip to say the least. Firstly, the fascia is the most eye-catching feature, with slim LED headlights (SX) daytime running lights and fog lights strategically placed so not to crowd the grille. Incidentally, the DRLs also extend from the headlights to the grille, lending that distinctive illumination pattern system.
The back end features wider taillights that extend to the side. A two- tier lighting system, it offers vivid brightness to alert other drivers. The pair is connected in the middle by a slim silver ornament. The lower bumper is adorned with silver faux skid plate that is also embellished with exhaust tops. Overall, the rear is smart looking.
All Seltos variants use 17-inch tire/rim combo, which adds sportiness to the package. The black under-claddings trails the bottom half of the vehicle, lending a wider impression of the vehicle.
The Interior
The interior is adorned wit black and gray combination. The dash is basic but smart, with very readbale gauges. Although small in size by today’s standard, the 8-inch touchscreen AM/FM/MP3/USB comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with 6 Speakers. The seats are sized just right, with a comfortable second row with ample legroom. The cargo space is generous, and doubles in capacity once the rear seats are folded.
The Powertrain
The engine is also bigger; a normally aspirated 2-liter, 16 Valve gas engine that’s mated to an Intelligent Continuously Variable Transmission (IVT). The power is nothing to scoff at, with 147 hp (6,200 rpm) and 179 Nm (4,500 rpm), performance should be exciting. Can’t wait to test this!
Available in three variants; the base LX, the mid-level EX, and the top-trim SX, The KIA Seltos can meet any budgetary concerns. All models come with 5 years (100,000 km) warranty.
The Crossover Wars is in full force, and the KIA Seltos is in the forefront!
Price as tested
Kia Seltos 2.0 LX IVT CVT PHP1,098,000
Kia Seltos 2.0 EX IVT CVT PHP1,198,000
Kia Seltos 2.0 SX IVT CVT PHP1,498,000
For more info, visit https://www.kia.com/ph
or your nearest KIA dealership.
Text/Images by Earl Manalansan
