Table of Contents
Introduction
The midsize SUV segment in India has seen tremendous growth over the last few years. With so many options available, standing out from the competition requires automakers to constantly update and improve their offerings. Kia seems to have cracked the code with their 2023 Seltos facelift. While retaining the core strengths that made it a segment leader, the updates move the goalpost even higher for rivals like the Hyundai Creta.
Subtle Exterior Changes Add Premium Flair
Kia hasn’t completely reinvented the wheel with the 2023 Seltos. This is a facelift after all, not a ground-up redesign. But the styling changes, while evolutionary, make the Seltos look more upscale and premium:
Bolder Grille and Lighting Elements
- The trademark Kia grille is now larger with a more aggressive “tiger nose” design. The LED daytime running lamps (DRLs) extend into the grille for a cohesive look.
- Full LED tail lamps mirror the latest Kia global design language. They connect in the middle via an illuminated Kia logo.
Sportier Bumpers and Revised Lower Bodywork
- New front and rear bumpers feature more sculpted lines and body-colored inserts. The rear bumper includes faux exhaust outlets on higher trims.
- Subtle side sill extensions and trim pieces on the doors freshen up the profile.
Expanded Color Palette
- New exterior color options have been added, including the eye-catching “pewter olive” seen on the test car. Expect more customization choices to appeal to younger buyers.
The 2023 Seltos continues to stand out in a crowd while looking more sophisticated and expensive. Strong road presence remains a Kia hallmark.
Cabin Sees Major Technology and Design Upgrades
But it’s the interior where Kia has made the biggest strides with the 2023 Seltos. The earlier dual-screen layout resulted in a cluttered dashboard. No more! Kia designers have totally transformed the cabin to look clean, modern, and minimalist.
Streamlined Center Console and Digital Displays
- The busy center console has made way for a slimmer dual-display layout. A standard 8-inch touchscreen handles infotainment duties while a neighboring 10.25-inch all-digital cluster displays gauges and driving data.
Improved Ergonomics and Material Quality
- Physical HVAC controls remain for easy access. Buttons and switchgear feel more premium. Soft-touch fabrics line the doors and dashboard.
- The less obstructed dash not only looks better but also improves forward visibility – a boon for shorter drivers.
The tech-forward interior punches above its weight and finally matches the exterior styling and appeal. Keeping commonly used functions like climate control separate from the touchscreen also scores practicality points.
New 160 HP Turbo-Petrol Headlines Powertrain Updates
Kia is offering the Seltos with 3 engine options: 1.5L petrol, 1.5L diesel, and an all-new 1.5L turbo-petrol motor. This new turbocharged gasoline mill is the big news. With segment-leading power and torque figures, it adds some excitement to the driving experience.
Strong Acceleration and Overtaking Ability
- 160hp and 253Nm from the new turbo-petrol help the Seltos sprint energetically to 100 kph in under 9 seconds per Kia. There’s always power on reserve for overtaking slower traffic.
Advanced Dual-Clutch Automatic Transmission
- The 7-speed dual-clutch automatic responds quickly when driving in Sport mode. Gear changes are lightning quick to keep the engine on the boil. It’s not as refined in stop-go traffic though.
grumbly Sounding Engine at Higher RPMs
- The new turbo engine lacks the silky smooth character of some rivals when pushed hard. It gets rather vocal and grumbly near the redline. But for regular driving, it’s perfectly fine.
So while not the most electrifying or melodious powertrain, the new turbo-petrol gives the Seltos an extra dose of performance to build driving enthusiasm. It’s a welcome addition over the base engines.
Ride Quality and Handling Balance Improved
Kia’s engineering team hasn’t just focused on cosmetic changes. The 2023 Seltos gets chassis tuning updates to build on its reputation as a comfortable daily driver while adding more dynamic verve:
Better High-Speed Stability over Bumps
- Revisions to the suspension, especially for the rear, allow the Seltos to better isolate passengers from nasty expansion joints and road imperfections encountered on the highway.
Confident Handling without Being Too Firm
- Front suspension tweaks provide more precision to the steering for confident high-speed maneuvers. But the ride isn’t overly stiffened, ensuring compliance over potholes.
Holds Its Own Against Sportier Small SUVs
- While no hot hatch, the Seltos facelift handles winding roads with poise. Enthusiasts will still gravitate towards the Hyundai Creta N-Line or Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo for their sharper responses.
The chassis refinements make the Seltos feel more planted and engaging. And by retaining a supple ride, Kia caters to the majority of buyers who value comfort. It’s a delicate balance executed well.
Top-Spec Models Packed with Features
Kia is offering the 2023 Seltos in quite a few trims and packages. But it’s the fully-loaded variants like the GT Line that really impress with their extensive amenities:
New Equipment Not Found on Older Models
- Ventilated front seats, wireless phone charging, auto-folding ORVMs, ambient lighting, and remote start are newly available. A large panoramic sunroof further enhances the airy cabin.
Cutting-Edge ADAS Technology
- Advanced driver aids like forward collision warning, blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, and rear cross-traffic alert take safety to new heights. These help mitigate common accident causes.
Perks like Smart Key and Push Button Start
- Keyless entry with push button start adds convenience, as does the auto-dimming rearview mirror. Rain-sensing wipers provide visibility in inclement weather.
Dual-zone automatic climate control, LED interior lighting, and a premium Sound System covers all the bases expected from a well-equipped urban SUV. The Seltos aims to be the benchmark for features.
Prices Remain Competitive Despite Additions
The base Seltos now starts at Rs. 10.89 lakhs, very similar to before. Yes, the range-topping turbo-petrol GT Line has crossed into premium territory at about Rs. 19.79 lakhs. But considering the substantial upgrades Kia has packed in, the pricing seems reasonable.
For the added power, sharper handling, and abundance of feel-good features, the 2023 Seltos justifies its marginal price increase in the context of rising input costs. It maintains value, something Kians expect from the brand.
In our price-sensitive market, providing more for less always works. The Seltos first lured buyers with its value positioning. The facelift retains that advantage despite meaningful improvements.
| Trim | Starting MSRP* | Color Options | Features | Specs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HTE | ₹ 10,89,900 | Sparkling Silver, Clear White | ESC, VSM, and HAC | ESC, VSM and HAC |
| All Wheel Disc Brakes | Highline Tire Pressure Monitoring System | |||
| Full Digital Cluster with 10.5 cm (4.2″) Color TFT MID | Rear Door Sunshade Curtain | |||
| Halogen Projector Headlamps | ||||
| HTK | ₹ 12,09,900 | Imperial Blue, Intense Red, Gravity Gray, Sparkling Silver | ESC, VSM, and HAC | 6 Airbags (Front, Side, and Curtain Airbags) |
| All Wheel Disc Brakes | Highline Tire Pressure Monitoring System | |||
| 20.32 cm (8.0”) Touchscreen with Wireless Android Auto and Apple Carplay | Full Digital Cluster with 10.5 cm (4.2″) Color TFT MID | |||
| Rear Door Sunshade Curtain | ||||
| HTK+ | ₹ 13,49,900 | Imperial Blue, Glacier White Pearl, Intense Red, Gravity Gray, Sparkling Silver | ESC, VSM, and HAC | 6 Airbags (Front, Side, and Curtain Airbags) |
| Smart Key with Push Button Start/Stop | 20.32 cm (8.0”) Touchscreen with Wireless Android Auto and Apple Carplay | |||
| Front LED DRLs | Full Digital Cluster with 10.5 cm (4.2″) Color TFT MID | |||
| Rear Door Sunshade Curtain | ||||
| HTX | ₹ 15,19,900 | Imperial Blue, Intense Red, Glacier White Pearl, Gravity Gray, Sparkling Silver, Aurora Black Pearl | 6 Airbags (Front, Side, and Curtain Airbags) | Panoramic Sunroof |
| Crown Jewel LED Headlamps with Star Map LED Sweeping Light Guide | Star Map LED Connected Tail Lamps | |||
| R17 43.66 cm Alloy Wheels | Smart Pure Air Purifier with Virus and Bacteria Protection** | |||
| 26.03 cm (10.25”) HD Touchscreen Navigation with Kia Connect with OTA Maps and System Update | ||||
| HTX+ | ₹ 18,29,900 | Imperial Blue, Glacier White Pearl, Intense Red, Gravity Gray, Aurora Black Pearl, Sparkling Silver, White Pearl + Black, Red + Black | 6 Airbags (Front, Side and Curtain Airbags) | Panoramic Sunroof |
| Crown Jewel LED Headlamps with Star Map LED Sweeping Light Guide | Star Map LED Connected Tail Lamps | |||
| Sequential LED Turn Indicators with Ice Cube LED Fog Lamps | R17 43.66 cm Crystal Cut Alloy Wheels | |||
| GTX+ | ₹ 19,79,900 | Imperial Blue, Intense Red, Glacier White Pearl, Gravity Gray, Aurora Black Pearl, Sparkling Silver, White Pearl + Black, Red + Black | 6 Airbags (Front, Side, and Curtain Airbags) | Panoramic Sunroof |
| Crown Jewel LED Headlamps with Star Map LED Sweeping Light Guide | Star Map LED Connected Tail Lamps | |||
| Sequential LED Turn Indicators with Ice Cube LED Fog Lamps | R17 43.66 cm Crystal Cut Alloy Wheels | |||
| 26.03 cm (10.25”) HD Touchscreen Navigation with Full Digital Cluster with 26.04 cm (10.25”) Color LCD MID |
Conclusion: Raising the Bar Yet Again for Midsize SUVs
When it arrived in 2019, the Kia Seltos transformed buyer expectations from the midsize SUV segment. Its head-turning design, premium vibes, and generous equipment forced rivals to up their game. With the 2023 Seltos, Kia has repeated that formula.
It’s still instantly recognizable on the outside but with added finesse and road presence. The interior’s radical makeover results in a cabin that feels special and expensive. Add the potent new turbo engine, refined road manners, and abundance of tech – the Seltos seems fresh rather than just facelifted.
Kia has tailored the 2.0 version of its first India-centric model to appeal to both the head and heart. It addresses the few shortcomings of the original while packaging the upgrades smartly. Whether on a crowded city street or an open highway, the Seltos continues to feel sophisticated and satisfying.
The midsize SUV space keeps evolving rapidly. But with this comprehensive facelift, Kia seems ready to defend the Seltos’ position as the segment benchmark. For an optimal blend of style, comfort, features, and driving pleasure, the 2023 Kia Seltos is hard to beat. It sets a new standard for automakers to aspire towards.
Frequently Asked Questions on the 2023 Kia Seltos Facelift:
Q1. What are the key changes in the 2023 Seltos facelift?
The 2023 Seltos gets exterior styling updates like a larger tiger nose grille, new LED lighting, revised bumpers, and new wheel designs. The interior is completely redesigned with a dual-screen layout and more premium materials. A new 1.5L turbo-petrol engine offers more power. Ride quality and handling also see improvements.
Q2. What features do the top-spec Seltos models offer?
Fully-loaded versions have a long list of features including ventilated front seats, panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, ADAS tech, dual-zone climate control, 10.25-inch touchscreen, digital driver display, and more.
Q3. Is the 2023 Seltos more expensive than the outgoing model?
The new Seltos starts at Rs. 10.89 lakhs ex-showroom, very similar to the older model. Higher-spec versions cost marginally more but still offer good value considering the upgrades.
Q4. Does the 2023 Seltos have more road presence than before?
Yes, the new larger grille, LED lighting elements, sportier bumpers, and twin exhaust tips give the Seltos facelift more visual appeal and premium street presence. The refreshed styling enhances the SUV silhouette.
Q5. What are the powertrain options on the facelifted Seltos?
A 115hp 1.5L diesel, 113hp 1.5L petrol, and new 160hp 1.5L turbo-petrol are offered. The diesel is smooth and efficient while the turbo-petrol adds performance. Gearbox options include manual, CVT, IMT, and 7-speed DCT autos.
