Kia

The wait is over. The all new Seltos is here.

The all-new 2020 Kia Seltos has gone on sale in New Zealand, ready to shake up the vibrant compact SUV segment with a level of sophistication, technology and sharp pricing that set it apart from the pack

Since news broke about its imminent arrival, interest in the much anticipated Seltos has resulted in a burgeoning waiting list of people who have already registered for more information about the new SUV.

“The strong reaction from the public ahead of the introduction of Seltos clearly indicates that we have another winner in our hands,” says Todd McDonald, Managing Director of Kia Motors New Zealand.

“The SUV segment has been growing strongly and our mid-size Sportage is already one of the most popular vehicles across all categories in New Zealand. Seltos has the potential to become another best-seller for us in the compact segment.”

Much attention has been focused on the introductory price of MRP $25,990+ORC for the Kia Seltos LX 2.0 model, which is significantly competitive amongst other similar size SUVs in the New Zealand market.

Mr McDonald says the special low price (in place for a limited time) has worked extraordinarily well in raising significant awareness in what is becoming a very crowded market.

However, there is much more to the new Kia Seltos than keen pricing. In addition to its bold styling, the newcomer is among the roomiest SUVs in its class and offers a comprehensive level of equipment and technology features that will have wide appeal.

There are five models in the new Seltos range, with four powered by Kia’s proven naturally aspirated 2.0-litre petrol engine driving the front wheels through a brand new Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) developed by Kia Motors to deliver improved power response, smoothness and better fuel economy.

Kia is very excited about this new type of continuously variable transmission. Essentially the IVT behaves very much like a regular automatic because it acts as if it has distinct gear changes. And yet it has all the positive attributes required of a modern transmission, such as improved fuel economy, smoothness, lighter weight and less complexity. This transmission is already proving itself in the United States in the Forte/Cerato, where it is matched to the same 2.0-litre engine in the Seltos and is winning much praise from owners and the media.

Sitting at the top of the new Seltos range is a Limited model powered by a 130kW/265Nm 1.6-litre turbocharged engine driving all four wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch sports transmission – a similar mechanical set-up to the sporty front-drive Kia Cerato GT. It also features the all-round independent suspension set-up from the Cerato GT.

To further elevate the driving experience, all Seltos models are equipped with a Drive Mode Select system that lets drivers adapt the car to their preferred style or the road conditions.

Instantly recognisable through the latest iteration of the Kia tiger nose grille that features a new diamond-pattern, the Kia Seltos stands apart from its rivals thanks to a sophisticated, sporty design that boast huge road presence. Bold headlamps (LED on the Limited model) provide a light signature that sits above distinctive 3D multi-layer indicators.

The stylish exterior is matched with strong on-road performance and engaging dynamics that have been honed for driving conditions in this part of the world by Kia engineers through the ANZAC development programme. This ensures that the suspension and steering are tuned to provide a comfortable and confidence-inspiring drive across a wide range of road and climatic conditions.

Occupants are protected by a full suite of active safety measures, including the all-important Autonomous Emergency Braking system fitted across the range. Most models also have Advanced Smart Cruise Control, Blind Spot Detection with Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist and Lane Keep Assist (inc Line/Road Edge).

Within its 4370mm length, the new 2020 Kia Seltos incorporates a wheelbase of 2630mm – longer than many of its rivals – which translates into more passenger legroom and, for the LX and LX+ models, the largest boot in its class at 468L (433L in the EX and Limited models with full size alloy spare wheel, against a space saver in the LX and LX+).

The eye-catching interior of the Seltos is designed with high-quality materials and futuristic in-car technology. All models, except the LX, feature a smart 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen (8-inch touchscreen on the LX) with a high quality sound system, together with satellite navigation and electric park brake.

Every Seltos comes with smart alloy wheels ranging from 16-inch to 18-inch, roof rails, tyre pressure monitoring system, Apple Car Play and Android Auto, air conditioning (climate control on EX and Limited) and all the usual electronic comforts and controls expected in a Kia.

The Limited model is equipped with heated and ventilated front seats, along with a premium 8-speaker Bose audio that matches to Kia’s Sound Mood Lighting system. Also exclusive to the Limited is the Head-up Display, which projects driving information onto a see-through panel behind the steering wheel and a wireless phone charger.

Smart proximity key and remote engine start are fitted to the EX and Limited models, too. The full specification list for the Kia Seltos range is available on the Seltos range and specifications page .

All Kia Seltos models sold in New Zealand benefit from Kia’s 5-year/100,000km Warranty Programme that also includes a Roadside Assist package for emergencies.