Kia’s winning streak continues as the company has used the Los Angeles Auto Show to unveil a significantly improved Seltos.
Looking far more refined than its predecessor, the 2024 Seltos features a bold front fascia with a larger tiger nose grille that can be outfitted with available “Star Map” LED accents. Further below, there’s a new front bumper with larger intakes that now house vertical fog lights.
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The rear end sports a rugged bumper that eschews the faux exhaust treatment found on the current model. However, the most noticeable upgrade are new taillights with bands that extend toward the center of the crossover.
Designers didn’t stop there as the 2024 Seltos has restyled wheels and a revised color palette that includes Pluton Blue, Fusion Black, and Valais Green. Customers can also opt for a new X-Line variant, which comes equipped with a gunmetal grille, gloss black accents, a bridge-style roof rack, and exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels.
A Classier And More Advanced Cabin
The interior was a weak spot for the Seltos, but Kia has addressed the issue with a new dashboard and a revised instrument cluster that now features a larger 4.2-inch display. However, the real standout is the available panoramic screen display that consists of a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a matching 10.25-inch infotainment system.
Additional changes are limited, but the 2024 Seltos sports a revised center stack with updated controls. They’re joined by new air vents and a familiar shifter, unlike the Korean variant which has a more minimalist rotary setup. Customers will also find higher-end options such as a power liftgate and ventilated front seats. Other highlights include support for over-the-air updates and available digital key technology.
An Upgraded 1.6-Liter Turbo With 195 HP
Under the hood, there’s a familiar 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 147 hp (110 kW / 149 PS) and 132 lb-ft (180 Nm) of torque. It’s connected to an Intelligent Variable Transmission, which can be paired to an optional all-wheel drive system.
While the entry-level engine carries over, the turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder has been upgraded to produce 195 hp (146 kW / 198 PS) for an increase of 20 hp (15 kW / 20 PS). Turbocharged models also trade the current seven-speed dual-clutch transmission for a new eight-speed automatic, which is hopefully more refined than its predecessor.
In terms of safety, there are several new and improved driver assistance systems. Key among them is Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection, which can automatically apply the brakes if a collision is imminent. Other new additions include Blind Spot Collision Warning, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, and Intelligent Speed Limit Warning.
That’s just the tip of the iceberg as the Seltos comes standard with High Beam Assist, Lane Following Assist, and a Rear View Monitor. Higher-end variants add Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Highway Driving Assist, Safe Exit Warning, and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist.
The 2024 Seltos is slated to arrive at U.S. dealerships in the first half of 2023 and pricing will be announced closer to launch.