KIA Seltos now Available in Diesel
The KIA Seltos was launched in South Africa in November 2019 with only the petrol engines on offer. Fast forward eight months and bam, a new turbo-diesel engine joins the family.
Engine and Transmission
Powered by a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel engine, the new KIA Seltos CRDI produces 86Kw of power and 250nm of torque. The Seltos CRDI is offered with a choice of either manual or automatic transmission.
The claimed 0 - 100km/h time is 11.5 seconds and it has a top speed of 176km/h!
Here's What To Look Out For
While the KIA Seltos is available in the same choice of seven exterior colours like its Petrol-powered siblings, potential buyers are spoiled for choice between two specifications levels.
KIA Seltos CRDI EX - This is an entry-level point into the range and is available in a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic transmission.
KIA Seltos CRDI EX+ - This is a mid-spec option and is only offered in a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Interior
With the KIA Seltos CRDI EX, standard features include air-conditioning; automatic headlight control, adjustable side mirrors with integrated indicators, cloth upholstery, steering wheel-mounted remote controls, electric windows, cruise control. It also comes with an 8-inch colour touchscreen infotainment system that incorporates a radio with RDS which is linked to six speakers.
The Seltos EX+ on the other hand features leather upholstery (including leather trim on the door panels) instead of the cloth upholstery as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for smartphone mirroring. There's Bluetooth connectivity with voice recognition, front and rear passengers can plug in and charge their phones thanks to USB ports.
Verdict
The KIA Seltos has done incredibly well since its launch considering that it is only 8 months old in Mzansi. It's safe to say that the introduction of a turbo-diesel model should help it make noticeable strides in the SUV segment.
Pricing
KIA Seltos 1.5 CRDI EX Manual R 410,995
KIA Seltos 1.5 CRDI EX Automatic R 428,995
KIA Seltos 1.5 CRDI EX+ Automatic R 446,995
As with all KIA models, all KIA Seltos models ship as standard with KIA’s industry-leading Unlimited Kilometre, 5-year warranty (inclusive of roadside assistance), and also include a 5-year/90,000km Service Plan.
