Kia Seltos Facelift: In the ever-evolving landscape of compact SUVs, the Kia Seltos has established itself as a formidable contender since its global debut.
Now, with its significant mid-cycle refresh, Kia has carefully refined and enhanced the Seltos to address competitive pressures while building on its established strengths.
This facelift represents more than cosmetic changes—it’s a thoughtful evolution that responds to consumer feedback and changing market expectations.
The refreshed Seltos arrives at a pivotal moment in the automotive industry’s transition, where technology integration, design language, and efficiency improvements have become crucial differentiators in a crowded segment.
This comprehensive update addresses key areas while maintaining the core identity that has made the Seltos popular across diverse global markets.
Kia Seltos Facelift: Design Evolution Subtle Sophistication
The exterior redesign of the facelifted Seltos strikes a delicate balance between familiarity and progression.
The front fascia has been comprehensively reworked, featuring a wider, more pronounced “tiger nose” grille that creates a stronger visual presence.
The LED headlamp clusters have been slimmed down and now incorporate a distinctive daytime running light signature that enhances recognition both day and night.
Perhaps most noticeable is the revised bumper design, which introduces more angular elements and redefined air intakes that simultaneously improve aerodynamics and visual sportiness.
The hood receives subtle character lines that create a more sculpted appearance when viewed from various angles.
In profile, the Seltos retains its well-proportioned silhouette, though new alloy wheel designs ranging from 16 to 18 inches provide fresh customization options.
The floating roof effect, created by the blacked-out C-pillar, remains a defining characteristic, now complemented by more pronounced wheel arches that emphasize the vehicle’s stance.
The posterior transformation is equally meaningful, with connected LED taillights that span the width of the tailgate, creating a contemporary light signature that enhances visibility and visual appeal.
The rear bumper integrates redesigned reflectors and a silver skid plate element that reinforces the SUV’s adventurous character without appearing overly rugged.
Interior Refinement: Elevated Materials and Technology
Inside, the Seltos facelift delivers substantial improvements to material quality and technological integration.
The dashboard architecture has been revised to accommodate a new dual-screen setup that combines driver instrumentation and infotainment functions behind a single glass panel.
This 10.25-inch digital cluster works in concert with a matching 10.25-inch touchscreen to create a continuous display that dominates the cabin visually.
Soft-touch materials now cover more surface area, particularly on touchpoints like the door armrests, center console, and dashboard facing.
Ambient lighting elements have been expanded, with customizable color options that create a more premium atmosphere during evening drives.
The center console has been redesigned for improved ergonomics, featuring a wireless charging pad positioned for easy device access without distracting from driving tasks.
Climate controls retain physical buttons and dials for core functions, demonstrating Kia’s commitment to intuitive interfaces rather than following the all-touch trend that has frustrated some users in competitive models.
Seating comfort receives meaningful attention through revised cushioning and bolstering, while available ventilated front seats expand the climate comfort beyond what’s typically offered in this segment.
Rear passengers benefit from reconfigured seatbacks that optimize long-distance comfort without sacrificing flexibility.
Technological Integration: Connected and Capable
The technological heart of the refreshed Seltos centers around Kia’s latest infotainment architecture, which offers wireless smartphone integration, over-the-air update capability, and an expanded suite of connected services.
The system responds to natural voice commands with increased accuracy, allowing drivers to adjust climate settings, navigation destinations, and entertainment options without manual inputs.
The Kia Connect suite now includes remote vehicle monitoring and control functions accessible via smartphone, enabling owners to check vehicle status, pre-condition the cabin temperature, and locate their vehicle in crowded parking areas.
The integrated navigation system features augmented reality guidance for complex intersections and enhanced points-of-interest search functionality.
Audio performance receives significant attention through an available 8-speaker Bose premium sound system specifically calibrated for the Seltos cabin acoustics.
The system includes speed-sensitive volume control and dynamic sound optimization based on driving conditions.
Performance and Efficiency: Refined Powertrains
| Specification | 2.0L Naturally Aspirated | 1.5L Turbo GDI | 1.6L Turbo GDI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 147 hp @ 6,200 rpm | 160 hp @ 5,500 rpm | 195 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 132 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm | 178 lb-ft @ 1,500-4,500 rpm | 195 lb-ft @ 1,500-4,500 rpm |
| Transmission | CVT (IVT) | 7-speed DCT | 7-speed DCT |
| Drive Options | FWD / AWD | FWD / AWD | AWD Standard |
| Fuel Economy (Combined) | 31 mpg | 29 mpg | 27 mpg |
| 0-60 mph | 9.6 seconds | 8.2 seconds | 6.8 seconds |
| Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs | 2,000 lbs | 2,500 lbs |
The powertrain lineup has been refined rather than revolutionized, with improvements focused on drivability and efficiency.
The base 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder receives updated engine mapping and friction-reducing technologies that improve responsiveness while maintaining its reputation for reliability.
The middle-tier 1.5-liter turbocharged engine—replacing the previous 1.4-liter unit—delivers a noticeable bump in horsepower and torque, with particular attention paid to low-end response that improves everyday drivability.
The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission paired with this engine has been recalibrated for smoother operation in urban traffic conditions, addressing a minor criticism of the previous generation.
For performance-oriented drivers, the 1.6-liter turbocharged powerplant in the GT-Line trim produces robust acceleration while maintaining reasonable efficiency through advanced thermal management and precise fueling strategies.
This top-spec engine benefits from a retuned exhaust system that produces a more engaging acoustic character without becoming intrusive during highway cruising.
Chassis refinements include revised suspension tuning that strikes an improved balance between ride comfort and handling precision.
The electric power steering system receives updated programming that increases feedback at higher speeds while maintaining easy maneuverability in parking situations.
Advanced Safety Systems: Comprehensive Protection
The safety architecture of the facelifted Seltos expands upon the already solid foundation with additional driver assistance features previously reserved for larger vehicles in the Kia lineup. The suite now includes:
Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning function
Highway Driving Assist with adaptive cruise control and lane following
Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist with parallel exit warning
Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist
Safe Exit Warning for urban parking scenarios
360-degree camera system with 3D view functionality
Level 2 autonomous driving capabilities for highway conditions
These systems work in concert through a network of radar sensors, cameras, and ultrasonic detectors to create a comprehensive safety cocoon around the vehicle.
Importantly, Kia has calibrated these systems to feel natural and unobtrusive during normal driving, intervening only when genuinely necessary.
Key Highlights Worth Noting:
Expanded color palette including new Pluton Blue and Fusion Black options with contrasting roof treatments
Optional panoramic sunroof that extends over both seating rows
Hands-free power tailgate with adjustable height settings
Reconfigurable cargo floor with hidden storage compartments
USB-C charging ports throughout the cabin with increased power delivery
Digital key functionality compatible with both Android and Apple devices
Harman Kardon premium audio system with spatial sound processing
Eco-friendly interior materials including recycled fabric options
Enhanced noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) suppression through additional insulation
Terrain Management System with specific modes for snow, mud, and sand
Market Positioning and Value Proposition
The refreshed Seltos positions itself as a compelling option in the compact SUV segment by offering near-premium features while maintaining competitive pricing.
Starting at approximately $24,890 for the base LX trim and extending to around $32,590 for the fully-equipped SX Turbo, the Seltos delivers exceptional value when cross-shopped against both mainstream and entry-luxury alternatives.
The value equation strengthens when considering Kia’s comprehensive warranty coverage, which includes the industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain protection and 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper coverage.
This long-term commitment to vehicle quality provides significant peace of mind for buyers considering the Seltos as a long-term investment.
Global Adaptation: Regional Customization
Recognizing the diverse needs of its global markets, Kia has implemented thoughtful regional adaptations for the Seltos facelift.
Suspension tuning varies by market, with European versions receiving firmer settings for high-speed stability on autobahns, while North American models prioritize compliance over challenging road surfaces.
Australian variants feature dust-resistant cabin filters and additional underbody protection for rough terrain.
Powertrain availability also varies by region, with some markets receiving diesel options or mild-hybrid variants that respond to local emissions regulations and fuel pricing structures.
This adaptive approach demonstrates Kia’s commitment to global relevance while maintaining the core character that defines the Seltos experience.
Kia Seltos Facelift: Thoughtful Evolution
The Kia Seltos facelift represents a thoughtful evolution rather than a revolutionary departure—precisely what a successful mid-cycle refresh should deliver.
By addressing specific areas for improvement while enhancing the vehicle’s established strengths, Kia has created a more compelling package that should maintain the model’s competitive position against newer rivals.
What distinguishes this update is its comprehensive nature, touching virtually every aspect of the vehicle experience from aesthetics to technology to driving dynamics.
This holistic approach demonstrates Kia’s commitment to continuous improvement and customer satisfaction, qualities that have contributed significantly to the brand’s growing reputation for excellence.
As the compact SUV segment continues to represent one of the most fiercely contested battlegrounds in the automotive marketplace, the refreshed Seltos makes a strong case for itself through a combination of distinctive design, thoughtful features, and compelling value.
For buyers seeking a right-sized vehicle that delivers substance beyond its sticker price, the Seltos facelift warrants serious consideration.