Kia Seltos Facelift Drive Impressions: 5 Compelling Reasons to Buy Now:

Kia Seltos Facelift Drive Impressions: BUY or NOT? | Gagan Choudhary

As the sun dipped low over the horizon, casting a warm glow on the busy roads of India, I found myself behind the wheel of the much-anticipated Kia Seltos facelift. This compact SUV has been a game-changer in the Indian market ever since it debuted, and now, with fresh updates and a hint of flair, it begs the question: Is it still worth your hard-earned money? Join me as I delve into the ride experience, practical considerations, and whether you should bring this beauty home.

First Impressions: A Design Overhaul

Stepping up to the new Seltos, the first thing that strikes you is its revamped front fascia. The bold Tiger Nose grille gets a sharp redesign, flanked by sleek LED headlamps that give it a more aggressive stance. Kia’s attention to detail is evident, especially with the parametric design elements that add a modern twist.

Walking around, the silhouette maintains its sporty profile, yet the enhanced LED tail lights and updated bumper design add a touch of sophistication. In a crowded segment filled with strong contenders like the Hyundai Creta and MG Hector, the facelift does enough to stand out without screaming for attention—a balanced approach that many buyers will appreciate.

Interior Comfort: Elevating the Experience

Slide into the driver’s seat, and you’re greeted by a cabin that feels both contemporary and luxurious. The dual-screen layout catches the eye—a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system paired with a fully digital instrument cluster. As someone who heavily relies on tech features, the seamless connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is a breath of fresh air.

What stood out for me was the quality of materials used. The soft-touch surfaces and leatherette upholstery give a premium feel, especially at this price point. Kia has also taken note of practical elements; the driver’s seat offers ample adjustability, and even the rear passengers enjoy generous legroom. During my test drive, I loaded it up with a weekend’s worth of luggage, and I was pleased to find that the boot space is as accommodating as ever—another win for family road trips!

Performance: Smooth and Responsive

Once we hit the road, the Seltos came to life. The facelifted version offers a choice of engines, including a refined 1.5-litre petrol and a peppy 1.5-litre diesel that delivers a great mix of power and efficiency. The turbo-petrol option continues to impress, showcasing Kia’s commitment to performance without compromising on fuel economy—a crucial factor for Indian buyers.

During my drive, the handling felt precise, with steering that offered just the right amount of feedback. Whether navigating through bustling city traffic or cruising on the highway, the Seltos feels agile and confident. It glided over potholes with ease—important given the often unpredictable road conditions in India. However, it’s worth noting that the ride can get a bit firm over rough terrain, something to consider if your driving habits frequently include rugged routes.

Safety and Features: A Holistic Approach

Kia has loaded the new Seltos with an array of safety features. From multiple airbags to advanced driver-assistance systems, including lane-keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring, this SUV doesn’t skimp on the essentials. The introduction of features like a 360-degree camera adds a layer of convenience, especially for urban dwellers navigating tight parking spaces.

I tested the automatic emergency braking during my drive—it’s reassuring to know that the Seltos can help you avoid minor mishaps, especially in crowded markets or family outings where distractions abound.

Pros and Cons: Is It Right for You?

Pros:

• Striking, modern design that turns heads.
• Impressive interior quality with abundant features.
• Refined performance across engine options.
• Comprehensive safety suite.

Cons:

• The riding comfort could be challenged over rough roads.
• Higher variants come with a price that might stretch budgets.

Pricing Clarity: A Worthwhile Investment?

Kia has positioned the Seltos facelift with a competitive pricing strategy. Ranging from approximately ₹10.89 lakh to ₹19.65 lakh (ex-showroom), it continues to be a value-for-money proposition. Given the extensive list of features, it offers a strong case compared to rivals in the same price bracket.

For first-time buyers, young families, or anyone switching from a smaller hatchback, the Kia Seltos represents a worthy investment—mixing style, performance, and practicality seamlessly.

Should You Buy the Kia Seltos Facelift?

After my test drive—an experience that was both enjoyable and enlightening—I can confidently say that the Kia Seltos facelift stays true to its roots while improving upon what was already a solid foundation. Whether you’re a daily commuter or someone who loves adventurous weekends, this compact SUV can meet your needs without compromise.

In conclusion, if you find yourself at a crossroads about your next automotive purchase, and the allure of a stylish, tech-savvy, and performance-oriented vehicle speaks to you, then yes—it’s time to book a test drive with the Kia Seltos. After all, sometimes second chances are the best, and the Seltos facelift is undoubtedly worth a look.

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