Key highlights
- China-spec Seltos gets a 27-inch ultra-wide display
- 1.5-litre turbo-petrol makes 200PS and 253Nm, paired with an 8-speed automatic
- India-spec Seltos gets a 160PS turbo-petrol with a 7-speed DCT
Kia has unveiled the new Seltos in China, and this version gets some interesting upgrades that could make Indian Seltos owners a little jealous. The China-spec SUV gets a completely redesigned cabin, a massive 27-inch ultra-wide display and a more powerful turbo-petrol engine.
Same dimensions as Indian Seltos?
Interestingly, the Chinese Seltos is quite close in size to the new India-spec model. It measures 4,460 mm long, 1,830 mm wide and 1,640 mm tall, with a 2,690 mm wheelbase. Compared to the previous generation, it is 75 mm longer and 30 mm wider, while the wheelbase has grown by 60 mm.
BIG screen
The biggest talking point is inside. Kia will offer a 27-inch ultra-wide display across all variants, powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8295P chipset. There is also a separate 10-inch screen ahead of the driver.
The setup supports split-screen functions, connected-car features and Chinese navigation and entertainment apps. It also integrates Baidu’s Ernie AI model and supports Apple CarPlay, Huawei HiCar and Carlink. The front passenger can even play video games using a wireless controller.
Other features include a panoramic sunroof, wireless charging, a 100W Type-C port, powered driver’s seat, heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel and an eight-speaker Bose sound system.
Level 2 ADAS is also available, bringing functions such as adaptive cruise control, lane following, blind-spot monitoring, remote parking assistance and a surround-view camera.
The powertrain
The more interesting change is under the bonnet. The China-spec Seltos gets a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 200 PS and 253 Nm, paired with an 8-speed torque-converter automatic. It also gets Eco, Normal, Sport and Smart drive modes, along with Snow, Mud and Sand traction modes.
There is also a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol making 115 PS and 144 Nm, paired with an IVT.
For perspective, the India-spec Seltos’ 1.5-litre turbo-petrol makes 160 PS and 253 Nm and is paired with a 7-speed DCT.
There is no word yet on whether Kia plans to bring these China-specific upgrades to India. But if that 200 PS engine and 8-speed automatic ever make it here, the Seltos could become an even more interesting proposition.
Also read: Confirmed: Kia Sorento SUV India launch on September 4
