At the end of last year, Naza Kia teased the arrival of the new Kia Seltos, which it said will be launched in 2020. Fast forward four months and the B-segment crossover appears to be nearing a local introduction, having popped up on the official Kia Malaysia website.
The Seltos will apparently be available in EX and GT Line variants, and both look to be powered by a 1.6 litre Gamma naturally-aspirated MPI four-cylinder petrol engine, sending 123 PS and 151 Nm of torque.
It is mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox, and the car will likely only be offered with front-wheel drive, following class norms.
Beyond that, not much can be gleaned about the local specification, but the website does list items like LED head- and tail lights, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Qi wireless smartphone charging, ventilated seats, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, a sunroof and, interestingly, a head-up display.
Expect most of these to be exclusive to the GT Line, which will also get a seven-inch colour multi-info display instead of the EX’s 3.5-inch monochrome screen, along with black faux leather seats and single-zone automatic climate control.
We already had an inkling of an impending launch following a preview event in February, where Naza Kia showed two variants of the Seltos. Images of the car on a trailer have also cropped up on The Ajerul Facebook page, so it looks like it’s not long to go – although we probably still have to wait until the movement control order lifts first.
GALLERY: Kia Seltos previewed in Malaysia
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AI-generated Summary ✨
Comments express disappointment with the Kia Seltos’ interior design, engine options, and pricing, considering it underpowered and overpriced compared to global models. Many feel that the lack of a turbo engine and outdated interior features reduce its appeal. There's also criticism of the high price due to taxes and the absence of CKD status. Several commenters compare it unfavorably with competitors like the Proton X50, Honda HR-V, and Mazda CX-3, doubting its sales potential, especially given the price point. Some appreciate its design and features but feel the engine choices and pricing are not competitive. Overall, sentiments lean toward skepticism and disappointment, with many expecting the model to struggle in the Malaysian market.