We’ve already covered the second-generation Kia Seltos, highlighting its spacious cabin, high-quality interior and the notably more pliant ride. We’ve also spoken about the 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine’s strong performance and the 1.5-litre turbo-diesel’s relative lack of punch. This review, however, is focused squarely on the most sensible-sounding option in the line-up: the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol paired with a CVT (IVT in Kia speak) gearbox.
Kia Seltos IVT exterior design and engineering - 7/10
Seltos IVT available across Tech Line, GT Line and X-Line style packages
First things first. The IVT is no longer restricted to a mid-spec variant as was the case on the last-gen Seltos. There are nine trims to choose from, spread across Tech Line, GT Line and X-Line styling packages. Featured here is the Seltos IVT in GTX (A) form, and the thing to bring in is that it looks no different to an equivalent trim turbo-petrol DCT or diesel-auto.
To quickly talk design and styling, the new Seltos looks substantial and stands proud on its 18-inch rims. Frontal styling with vertically oriented daytime running lamps (DRLs) and a wide grille that incorporates the main headlights is a bit fussy to my eyes, but there is a visual slickness to the sides and tail end.
Kia Seltos IVT interior space and comfort - 8/10
Twin-screen layout complemented by physical buttons
Twin connected screens (three if you count the climate control display) are in keeping with the times, but for all its new-age minimalism, the dash also (thankfully) retains physical buttons for climate, audio and touchscreen shortcuts. It’s a well-thought-out space with all features and functions in easy reach and plenty of space to store smaller items in the cabin. Fit and finish are also very impressive.
Average-sized adults will like the stylish front seats, though larger passengers will find the seats a touch narrow and shoulder support lacking. Space at the back is a highlight, with great legroom as well as enough shoulder room to host three adults in reasonable comfort. Thigh support could be better, though.
Kia Seltos IVT features and safety - 8/10
Seltos IVT now also offered in fully loaded form
As mentioned, there’s a wider spread of IVT variants on the new Seltos, including some formerly exclusive to the DCT. The GTX (A) featured here packs tech items such as 12.3-inch digital dials, a slick 12.3-inch touchscreen, a crisp 360-degree camera and a Bose sound system. Comfort features include dual-zone climate control, ventilated front seats, a powered driver’s seat with memory, an auto-tilt function for the outside mirrors, a panoramic sunroof and sunshades for the rear windows. Curiously, an air purifier and a head-up display that were offered on the last Seltos are not part of the package here.
Standard safety kit includes 6 airbags, front and rear disc brakes, stability control, a tyre-pressure monitor and Isofix child seat mounts. An ‘(A)’ in the trim name symbolises ADAS. The suite of ADAS functions includes auto emergency braking, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert and assist, and more. The ADAS features work smoothly and read chaotic Indian conditions well. However, the systems work best on well-marked roads.
The new Kia Seltos hasn’t been rated for crash safety as yet and does not have a Global NCAP or Bharat NCAP score.
Kia Seltos IVT performance and refinement - 9/10
Seamless power delivery is a highlight on the Seltos IVT
115hp and 144Nm aren’t big numbers for a mid-sized SUV, but the IVT gearbox is so well in tune with the 1.5-litre petrol engine that it masks any weakness. The engine feels responsive to light taps on the accelerator, and in average city driving or highway cruises, there’s really no reason to complain about performance. Then there’s the smoothness. Where a dual-clutch transmission can fumble or feel hesitant at low speeds, the IVT delivers a seamless, jerk-free experience.
Push harder, though, and the familiar CVT traits do surface. A quick overtake, for instance, brings on the ‘rubberband’ effect that CVTs are notorious for, with revs rising sharply under hard acceleration. That said, it’s less pronounced than in several other CVTs, and the rise in engine speed is accompanied by a reasonably brisk build-up of pace. The IVT also simulates gear changes through eight steps, which helps make the experience feel more natural than a traditional CVT.
Refinement is another strong point. Even when the engine is worked hard, it doesn’t get outright loud. Drivers looking for more involvement can also take manual control via the gear lever or the paddleshifters mounted behind the steering wheel. There are three drive modes – Eco, Normal and Sport – and the differences in engine mapping are clearly noticeable. Sport mode, in particular, keeps the engine alert and delivers quick responses.
That said, the Seltos IVT doesn’t feel sporty in the way the turbo-petrol DCT can. With a 0-100kph time of 13.07 seconds, performance is firmly average and a long way off the sub-10 second sprint the turbo-petrol DCT can manage. And that’s the key distinction between the two petrol-automatic options. While the petrol-IVT delivers a slick experience in city driving, the turbo-petrol-DCT has the power and quick shifts to excite out on the open road..
Kia Seltos IVT efficiency - 7/10
Seltos IVT delivers satisfactory fuel economy
Kia hasn’t released official fuel economy numbers for any version of the new Seltos as yet. However, we did put the Seltos through our fuel efficiency loop, managing figures of 10.3kpl in city driving and 14.2kpl out on the highway. The figures are satisfactory for this class of SUV and better than what you’d get on the Seltos turbo-DCT.
Kia Seltos IVT ride comfort and handling - 8/10
Absorbent suspension and light steering in keeping with easygoing demeanour
If you’re familiar with the old Seltos, you’ll immediately notice the vastly improved ride comfort on the new model. Bump absorption at low speeds is very good, and there’s a nice damped feeling to the suspension at highway speeds too.
In its stock setting, the Seltos’s steering is feather-light. Parking and U-turns need very little effort at the steering, but on the flip side, the experience is also a bit disconnected at higher speeds. Switching to Sport mode does add more weight (and connect). The Seltos corners neatly but isn’t entertaining like a Skoda Kushaq or VW Taigun.
Kia Seltos IVT price and verdict - 8/10
Kia Seltos IVT price ranges from Rs 13.39 lakh-19.49 lakh
Prices for the Kia Seltos IVT start at Rs 13.39 lakh (ex-showroom) and top off at Rs 19.49 lakh. And therein lies the conundrum. The IVT undercuts equivalent versions of the turbo-DCT by Rs 50,000-80,000, which isn’t a massive difference at this price point. The thing is, while there is a saving to be had by opting for an IVT, many buyers will see the premium for the turbo-DCT – and its substantial 45hp advantage – as money well spent. If you enjoy driving and will use your Seltos for more than just urban commuting, the Seltos turbo-DCT is the way to go.
But if chock-a-block traffic and congested roads are everyday battles, the Seltos IVT will have a calming influence on you.
