Jenny checked out the 2023 Kia Seltos she delved into the key features and improvements of the latest iteration of the beloved Seltos model. If you haven’t already, make sure to check out the accompanying video for a visual tour and in-depth analysis.
Design: Subtle Yet Prominent Enhancements
The 2023 Kia Seltos retains its distinctive and recognizable design while receiving some thoughtful updates. Kia has added subtle yet prominent design elements that enhance its overall appeal. Up front, you’ll notice a larger grille with a striking “Star-Map” signature lighting design, giving the Seltos a bold and modern look. The headlights have been refreshed with new designs and LED daytime running lights, seamlessly integrated into the grille. The LED fog lights now sport a more compact and trendy appearance.
On the sides, you’ll observe a more sculpted profile with quirky design details that add character to the Seltos. Kia has introduced alloys across the range, and higher trims, such as the GT Line, boast 18-inch machined alloy wheels. One of the significant design improvements is found at the rear of the vehicle, where Kia has created a more athletic and mature look with a T-shaped taillight. This update adds a touch of sophistication to the overall design. The 2023 Seltos is available in seven vibrant colors, and the GT-Line trim offers two exclusive two-tone paint options.
Powertrain: Enhanced Performance and Efficiency
Under the hood, the GT Line trim offers a new powertrain option exclusive to this model and the Sport+ variant. While the front-wheel-drive Seltos models continue to feature the reliable 2.0-liter Atkinson cycle engine paired with a CVT, generating 110kW of power and 180Nm of torque, the GT Line trim introduces an exciting addition. The new AWD engine is a 1.6-liter turbo-petrol engine producing an impressive 146kW of power and 265Nm of torque. It comes paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission with a torque converter, delivering smooth gear shifts and exhilarating performance. With a combined fuel consumption of 7.4L per 100 km, the Seltos strikes an excellent balance between power and efficiency.
Driving Experience: Refined and Responsive
Kia has made notable improvements to the driving experience of the 2023 Seltos. While the decision to switch from a dual-clutch transmission to an eight-speed automatic with a torque converter may have raised eyebrows, it has resulted in a more refined and smoother driving experience. The new transmission offers seamless gear shifts and complements the Seltos’ maturation as a vehicle. Combined with Australian tuning, the Seltos exhibits excellent handling characteristics and minimal road noise, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable ride. However, it’s important to note that some users have found the safety alerts to be overly sensitive, generating intrusive and frequent noises. Fortunately, these alerts can be adjusted or turned off in the settings to suit personal preferences.
Interior: Harmonious and Feature-Packed
The interior of the 2023 Kia Seltos GT-Line offers a harmonious blend of style and functionality. Taking inspiration from its higher-end siblings like the Sportage and EV6, the Seltos now features dual 10.25-inch displays, seamlessly integrating the infotainment screen with the digital instrument cluster. This sleek and modern design ensures a seamless user experience. Throughout the cabin, you’ll find sharp design elements that add a touch of quirkiness, creating a unique and enjoyable ambiance. Notable interior features include a newly designed Climate Control Panel, USB-C and USB-A ports, and a fast wireless charger for added convenience.
While the interior boasts several premium features, some areas could benefit from further attention. For instance, the gear knob design may appear uninspired compared to the cabin’s overall quirky personality. However, it’s worth mentioning that the Seltos compensates for this with customizable interior lighting that responds to noise, adding a playful touch to the driving experience. Other noteworthy features include a premium heated steering wheel, an illuminated start button, and an ambient temperature display.
Backseats and Boot Space: Practical and Convenient
The 2023 Kia Seltos provides ample space for passengers and cargo alike. In the GT-Line trim, you’ll enjoy the convenience of a power tailgate, making loading and unloading hassle-free. With the rear seats in place, the Seltos offers 433 liters of boot space, which expands to an impressive 1393 liters when the rear seats are folded down. Additionally, higher trims come equipped with KIA Connect, an app that allows you to control various vehicle features, check vehicle status, and activate valet mode, among other functions.
Safety: Comprehensive, with One Missing Feature
Kia has prioritized safety by integrating a range of standard safety features across all Seltos trims, including the GT-Line. These features include Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA), Lane Following Assist (LFA), Rear-Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist (RCCA), and Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA). However, it’s worth noting that the GT-Line trim lacks a 360-degree camera, a feature present in many other vehicles within the subcompact category. While a reversing camera is included, the absence of a 360-degree view may be a drawback for those seeking comprehensive visibility.
Pricing: A Small Increase for Enhanced Value
The 2023 Seltos comes with a slight increase in pricing compared to its predecessor, reflecting the added value and improvements. The range starts at just under $32,000 for the entry-level S trim and goes up to $47,690 for the top-of-the-line GT-Line with AWD. Here’s an overview of the pricing:
– S: $31,690.00
– Sport: $35,390.00
– Sport+ FWD: $38,490.00
– GT-Line FWD: $44,590.00
– Sport+ AWD: $41,990.00
– GT-Line AWD: $47,690.00
Conclusion: A Well-Rounded Package
In conclusion, the 2023 Kia Seltos represents a compelling and well-rounded package in the compact SUV segment. The design enhancements, turbo engine transmission pairing, and overall improvements make it a strong contender in its class. While there are some minor areas for improvement, such as the absence of a 360-degree camera in the GT-Line trim, the Seltos delivers an enjoyable driving experience and offers great value for money. Whether you’re seeking style, performance, or practicality, the 2023 Seltos is definitely worth considering.
We hope you enjoyed this article, and make sure to watch the accompanying video for an in-depth visual review of the 2023 Kia Seltos. Stay tuned to CarTell.tv for more insightful content!
