Kia Seltos Test Drive: A Global Bestseller for Europe

The name is still largely unknown here, but globally it’s one of the brand’s cornerstones. Kia is now officially launching the second generation of the Seltos in Europe for the first time, positioning it right in the middle of the crowded compact SUV segment. At 4.43 meters long, it slots in between the Stonic and the Sportage within the Kia lineup; among competitors, it takes on the VW T-Roc, Toyota Corolla Cross, and Nissan Qashqai. Visually, the newcomer certainly looks like part of the electric EV family, but for now, only traditional internal combustion engines power the vehicle beneath its angular, boxy exterior.

For the market launch, Kia is relying on familiar gasoline engines. At the heart of the lineup is a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine producing 180 PS, which is available with either a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Figures like 9.2 seconds for the 0-100 km/h sprint and a top speed of 200 km/h place it in the middle of the pack, but what matters more is the way it delivers power. The powertrain responds to sudden throttle inputs with a slight delay, then builds noticeable power—but also generates an audible noise level that’s more pronounced than one would expect in this class. Especially under heavy load, the engine sounds strained, whereas it operates unobtrusively under partial load.

The dual-clutch transmission handles its task with ease, shifting gears smoothly and without noticeable interruptions. The suspension is clearly tuned for comfort; potholes, curbs, and cross-grooves are carefully filtered out, and the body remains remarkably quiet. Instead of razor-sharp steering maneuvers, the Seltos delivers gentle understeer that quickly makes it clear to the driver where the limits lie. The tuning remains deliberately relaxed. The steering is precise enough to inspire confidence. Drivers who turn the wheel aggressively won’t get exactly sporty feedback, but they will receive clean, predictable feedback. Braking and driving stability fit seamlessly into the overall picture.

All-wheel drive is also available in combination with the automatic transmission, complemented by a Terrain Mode with specific programs for different surfaces. Above that is a more powerful variant with 193 PS and an eight-speed automatic transmission, while a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine with 149 PS serves as the entry-level model. Electrification is not yet on the agenda, but it won’t be long before it arrives. A hybrid version with 154 or 178 PS, depending on the configuration, has already been announced for late 2026. It combines an internal combustion engine and an electric motor, drives short stretches in pure electric mode, and masks some of the hesitation during acceleration. In addition to the partially electrified powertrain and an advanced energy recovery system, it features functions such as Vehicle-to-Load, which allows external devices to be powered by the vehicle’s battery.

At 4.43 meters long, the model is positioned between classic B- and C-segment SUVs. Its proportions follow the established format: a wide track, a relatively tall body, and a wheelbase of 2.69 meters, which creates a noticeably spacious interior. The brand’s signature lighting signature, narrow headlights, and continuous rear design clearly echo the design language of the EV3, EV4, and EV5. Vertically oriented taillights, clean surfaces, and an overall very uncluttered design create a visual connection to its battery-electric relatives. The “Opposites United” design language combines clean lines with striking edges, while details such as recessed door handles and satin-silver accents create a modern impression. Variants such as the X-Line and GT-Line add further accents, either with rugged off-road-inspired elements or a look geared more toward urban dynamism.

Inside, too, the Seltos takes its cues from the brand’s larger model lines. The horizontally oriented cockpit provides a clear overview and emphasizes the vehicle’s width, while a continuous panoramic display serves as the digital command center. As in the EV models, two 12.3-inch screens visually merge into a single unit and are complemented by a separate touch panel for climate control. Below the screen are physical buttons for key functions, supplemented by a separate panel for climate control. Volume, temperature, and quick-access functions can be operated directly, which significantly reduces driver stress. The steering wheel also remains pleasantly analog: real buttons instead of touch-sensitive surfaces, clear functionality, and no guesswork.

The center console benefits from a shift-by-wire system, in which the gear selector moves to the steering wheel. This creates additional storage space that can be used flexibly. The interior is complemented by a variety of digital features: over-the-air updates keep the software up to date, an AI-based voice assistant processes natural language inputs, and with “Digital Key 2.0,” the vehicle can be unlocked and started via smartphone or smartwatch. Additional features or content, including display themes and streaming services, can be purchased later through an integrated store.

The Seltos also follows in the footsteps of its electric siblings when it comes to interior space. The driver and front passenger sit in comfortable seats. In the higher trim levels, there’s even a “Premium Relaxation” feature that allows the driver’s seat to be folded flat for a nap during breaks. The rear seats also offer plenty of legroom and headroom, and the seatbacks can be reclined by up to 24 degrees. Behind it, the cargo area offers 536 liters of volume, which can be expanded to up to 1,511 liters by folding down the seats. A variable cargo floor and a rail system for securing items enhance its practicality for everyday use. Added to this are well-thought-out storage compartments in the front, a cell phone charging cradle, and practical design details that prioritize function over form. In terms of practicality, the model ranks among the top in its class.

When it comes to features, Kia pulls out all the stops: a panoramic glass roof, 64-color ambient lighting, audio systems by Harman/Kardon or Bose, a high-resolution surround-view camera, heated and ventilated seats, a head-up display, and a whole array of Level 2 driver-assistance systems—ranging from highway and lane-keeping assist to forward collision warning and remote parking assist—much of which is already included in the mid-range trim levels. But even the base model comes with an extensive list of standard features, including LED lighting, heated seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, a rearview camera, and a broad suite of driver-assistance systems.

Prices reflect this confidence. In Germany, the Seltos starts at 34,190 euros for the 1.6 T-GDI with front-wheel drive and a manual transmission; the dual-clutch version starts at 36,190 euros, and all-wheel drive is available starting at 38,190 euros. In a competitive market featuring the T-Roc, Corolla Cross, Qashqai, and Karoq, that’s not a bargain, but it’s no surprise either. The angular newcomer is intended to compete in the highly competitive European compact SUV segment not as a niche model, but as a full-fledged contender. (aum)

Specifications: Kia Seltos 1.6 T-GDI 2WD DCT

Length x Width x Height (m): 4.43 x 1.83 x 1.61
Wheelbase (m): 2.69

Powertrain: 4-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine, 1598 ccm, front-wheel drive, 7-speed dual-clutch transmission
Total power/output: 132 kW / 180 PS
Max. torque: 265 Nm at 1,500–3,500 rpm
Top speed: 208 km/h
Acceleration 0 to 100 km/h: 8.8 sec.
Average WLTP fuel consumption: 7.0 liters
CO2 emissions (WLTP): 158 g/km
CO2 class: F
Curb weight (EU)/payload: min. 1,665 kg / max. 490 kg
Trunk volume: 536–1,511 liters
Max. towing capacity: 1,300 kg
Base price (Vision): 36,190 euros
Test vehicle price (X-Line): 43,340 euros