The Kia Seltos arrived in 2019 and single-handedly transformed India’s compact SUV expectations. In its second generation (2023 onward), the Seltos continues to push the segment with bold design, comprehensive safety features, and a feature list that reads like a luxury car brochure. In 2026, with continued updates and competitive pricing, the Seltos remains one of India’s top compact SUV choices. We review the Seltos X-Line and HTX+ variants comprehensively.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 1.5L NA Petrol (115 PS) / 1.5L Diesel (116 PS) / 1.5L Turbo GDI (160 PS) |
| Transmission | 6MT / CVT / 6AT / 7-DCT (variant-based) |
| Length × Width | 4,365 × 1,800 mm |
| Boot Space | 433 litres |
| Claimed FE | 14.3–21.0 km/l |
| Safety Rating | 5-Star Global NCAP 2023 |
| Starting Price | ₹11.30 lakh (ex-showroom) |
Design & Exterior
The second-generation Seltos’ bold front fascia — the star map LED DRL pattern, the three-dimensional front grille, and the defined hood creases — is one of the most striking designs in the segment. The X-Line variant adds exclusive Matte Graphite paint, blacked-out elements, and body cladding for an urban-rugged aesthetic. The 18-inch alloy wheels on top variants look premium. Overall, the Seltos has a more upmarket presence than the Creta — slightly longer (4,365 vs 4,330 mm) with a wider stance.
Interior & Features
The Seltos’ interior on HTX+ and X-Line tops is exceptional for its price point. The panoramic curved display (12.3-inch infotainment + 12.3-inch digital cluster on GT Line Auto), Bose 8-speaker premium audio, ambient lighting, ventilated front seats, heads-up display (HUD), and a dual-zone climate control combine to make the Seltos feel significantly more premium than its price suggests. The HUD (projecting speed and navigation onto the windscreen) is a feature unavailable in any other car under ₹20 lakh in India.
Engine & Performance
The 1.5L turbo GDI (160 PS, 253 Nm) with 7-speed DCT is the Seltos’ performance highlight — the most refined turbocharged compact SUV experience under ₹25 lakh. Highway overtaking at 100–140 km/h is effortless. The DCT gearbox is smooth and quick. Real-world fuel economy: turbo petrol: 13–15 km/l; diesel 6AT: 14.5–17.5 km/l. The diesel remains the choice for high-mileage highway drivers.
Ride Quality & Handling
The Seltos rides on a well-tuned MacPherson front, coupled torsion beam rear suspension. Ride quality is slightly firmer than the Creta — more driver-focused. The X-Line’s larger 215/60 R17 tyres absorb road irregularities well. Highway composure at 120–130 km/h is excellent. The steering is well-calibrated — light in city, firm enough for confident highway driving. ADAS functions including lane-keep assist actively reduce driver stress on long highway stretches.
Safety
5-Star Global NCAP 2023. 6 airbags standard from HTE. ADAS (HTX+ and X-Line): AEB, lane-keep assist, driver attention warning, adaptive cruise with stop-and-go, high beam assist, front collision warning. Electronic Stability Control. Hill assist. All safety specifications are class-appropriate and the 5-star NCAP confirms genuine structural integrity.
Price & Variants
- HTE / HTK: ₹11.30–14.80 lakh
- HTK+ / HTX: ₹15.75–17.65 lakh
- HTX+ / X-Line: ₹19.25–21.40 lakh
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| HUD at under ₹20 lakh — unique in segment | Kia service centres fewer than Hyundai/Maruti |
| 5-Star NCAP + comprehensive ADAS | X-Line Matte paint needs special care |
| Bose 8-speaker audio — best in segment | Boot space identical to Creta (433L) — not class-leading |
| Best turbo DCT refinement in compact SUV class | DCT gearbox clutch pack — watch for long-term reliability |
| X-Line urban-rugged look is distinctive | No AWD across the range |
Verdict
The Kia Seltos in HTX+ or X-Line spec is the best feature-equipped compact SUV in India — the HUD, Bose audio, and panoramic curved display together are unavailable in any competitor under ₹25 lakh. Choose the Seltos over the Creta if you prioritize driver-focused features (HUD, turbo DCT performance) and distinctive styling. Choose the Creta if you prioritize after-sales service convenience and resale value. Both are among India’s best compact SUVs. Rating: 8.8/10.
