Kia's secret bestseller Seltos comes to Europe

It is Kia's best-selling compact SUV worldwide and in Europe hardly anyone has heard of it yet. Seltos is the name of the 4.43-meter-long, angular SUV, the second generation of which has now been unveiled and is set to make its debut on the continent. "In our European line-up, we have so far lacked an offering in the B-SUV segment," explained Ho Sung Song, President and CEO of Kia at the online presentation, explaining the reason for the European expansion - he does not see the almost equally long Niro as an SUV, but as a crossover - and at the same time named some of the opponents by name: VW T-Roc and Toyota C-HR.

Visually, the newcomer is closely aligned with Kia's electric range. The radiator and headlamp graphics are strongly reminiscent of the EV3, and the rear end with the vertically arranged tail lights extending over the hatch also looks familiar. At first glance, the Seltos could be mistaken for another electric model. In reality, however, there is a conventional combustion engine under the angular sheet metal. Depending on the market, there is a 1.6-liter turbocharged petrol engine with 180 hp, optionally with a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox or 6-speed manual, as well as a more powerful version with 193 hp and an 8-speed automatic. The entry-level engine is a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine with 149 hp. There are also variants with all-wheel drive including "Terrain Mode" with programs for mud, sand and snow.

A hybrid version is set to follow in 2026, which will bring the Seltos closer to its electric relatives, at least in technical terms. Among other things, it will have a vehicle-to-load function to supply external devices with power, as well as the "Smart Regenerative Braking System 3.0". The latter adjusts the recuperation based on navigation and traffic data, as previously known mainly from electric cars.

The proportions of the Seltos are those of a classic compact SUV. At 4.43 meters long, 1.83 meters wide and 1.60 meters high, it ranks below the Sportage. The Kia design philosophy "Opposites United" is reflected in smooth surfaces, horizontal and vertical edges and a wide stance. Diagonal lines, emphasized shoulders and the flat roof line add some movement to the silhouette. Recessed door handles and satin silver accents give a "clean" look - and help the aerodynamics.

The X- and GT-Line are visually sharper. The former focuses on dark gun metal details and reinforced paneling in the underbody area. GT-Line gives the urban sports car more body color and discreetly dynamic add-on parts. New paint finishes such as Iceberg Green, Gravity Grey and matt Magma Red are intended to counteract the usual black, grey and white monotony.

The interior of the Seltos is based on the larger Kia models. A low, horizontal dashboard improves visibility and gives the interior an airy feel. The central control element is a panoramic display, in which two 12.3-inch screens for instruments and infotainment merge into a wide digital surface, with a touch area for the climate control underneath. The gear selector lever has been moved to the steering wheel as a shift-by-wire element, making the center console more usable.

A new AI assistant is designed to understand more natural speech than conventional voice control systems and operate more functions directly by voice command. Over-the-air updates keep software versions up to date and "Digital Key 2.0" transforms a smartphone or smartwatch into a fully-fledged vehicle key. An optional panoramic glass roof, 64-color ambient lighting and audio systems from Harman/Kardon and Bose, each tuned to the acoustics of the interior, provide atmosphere. Digital extras such as display themes and entertainment packages through to video streaming can be booked via the Kia Connect Store.

Thanks to the 2.69-meter wheelbase, the space is generous, especially in the rear, where there should be plenty of head and legroom as well as a reclining rear seat backrest (up to 24 degrees). Behind this is a 536-liter luggage compartment with a height-adjustable load floor and rail system for hanging nets, boxes and holders.

When it comes to safety and driving assistants, Kia goes all out. The list includes highway and lane following assist, forward collision warning, exit assist, all-round vision camera, parking collision avoidance and parking sensors at the front, rear and side. A head-up display projects the speed, navigation arrows and assistance instructions directly onto the windshield.

Production of the new Seltos will start this month in India. The launch in Korea, North America, Europe and China is scheduled for 2026. (aum)