Introducing the new KIA Seltos CRDI
In November 2019, KIA launched the Seltos, a compact family car that promised comfortability and durability throughout its drive. Now more than eight months later KIA has officially introduced its diesel version. We were invited to the local media launch dubbed #KiaAdventure, an overnight trip to Tzaneen where we could sample the CRDI and support local small businesses amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
We departed with a small group of media from KIA Motors Silver Lakes and made our way to Zwakala Brewery for lunch and a short tour. We are quite familiar with the Seltos after attending the national media launch earlier this year. The CRDI performed well on the route and handled the dirt road with ease. The new 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine does deliver a moderately impressive 86 kW of power, and 250 Nm of torque. The Seltos CRDI is also equipped with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission.
The Seltos is larger in size to its competitors, it measures in 4,315 mm long and 1,800 mm wide. The KIA Seltos CRDI that we drove was in Glacier White Pearl but do not feel too alarmed as this is just one out of seven colours options. Customers do also have the option of choosing one of three two-tone colours which include, Glacier White Pearl with a black roof, Intense Red with a black roof, and Punchy Orange with a white roof.
We arrived at the Fairview Hotel to spend the night and enjoy a superb supper on the banks of Letaba River. We spent the day driving the Ex+ which is available only in a 6-speed automatic transmission while the EX models being available either in a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic transmission,
After breakfast we headed out to the Old Pack Distillery for a quick tour as we proceeded on route back to Pretoria this time, we jumped into the Seltos Ex 6-speed manual which really impressed. If you are looking for an entry point into the Seltos range, then the EX may seem more appealing as it does include a number of standard features including air-conditioning, automatic headlight control (including an ‘escort’ and ‘welcome home’ function), electrically adjustable side mirrors with integrated indicators, cloth upholstery, steering wheel-mounted remote controls, electric windows, cruise control, and an 8-inch colour touchscreen infotainment system that incorporates a radio with RDS and is linked to six speakers. Other exciting features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for smartphone mirroring, as well as Bluetooth connectivity with voice recognition, as well as charging USB ports for front and rear passengers. The EX also comes standard with a full-sized spare wheel. The manual CRDI EX also felt more responsive than the automatic and is a really good alternative to the normally aspirated, entry-level Seltos.
If you want something more top of the range then the KIA Seltos CRDI EX+ will be the right fit for you but then there is also the Seltos GT-Line which is a real gem. Besides the extensive features that are already included in the Seltos EX, the EX+ models will come with further upgrades, as the cloth upholstery now becomes a leather upholstery (including leather trim on the door panels), while the electrically adjustable side mirrors gain an auto-folding function. The front passengers will also get further comfort features as it comes with an additional centre console armrest with an integrated storage box.
In terms of safety, all models come equipped with six airbags as standard: one for the driver, one for the front passenger, two side airbags for the driver and front passenger, as well as two side-curtain airbags that stretch across the length of the cabin. All models will also feature ISOFIX child seat anchors, ABS brakes, and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD). Both models also come with rear park distance control sensors with a reverse camera which is integrated into the vehicle’s touchscreen infotainment system. The EX+ models will get additional features such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC).
Pricing
KIA Seltos 1.5 CRDI EX Manual R 410 995
KIA Seltos 1.5 CRDI EX Automatic R428 995
KIA Seltos 1.5 CRDI EX+ Automatic R446 995
All KIA Seltos models come standard with KIA’s industry-leading Unlimited Kilometre, 5-year warranty (inclusive of roadside assistance), and will also include a 5-year/90,000km Service Plan.
Also worth a look: the Kia Seltos and the Kia Sportage.
FAQ
Q: What does the KIA Seltos CRDI cost in South Africa?
The KIA Seltos CRDI starts from around R389,995 for the EX manual variant, while the Ex+ automatic sits at approximately R459,995, making it a competitive option in the compact SUV space.
Q: Is the KIA Seltos CRDI worth buying?
The Seltos CRDI is definitely worth considering if you want a spacious family SUV with decent fuel economy, solid build quality, and KIA's impressive 5-year/150,000km warranty backing you up.
Q: What engine does the KIA Seltos CRDI have?
The Seltos CRDI packs a 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine that produces 86 kW of power and 250 Nm of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission.
Q: How does the KIA Seltos CRDI compare to competitors?
The Seltos CRDI is larger than most rivals at 4,315 mm long and 1,800 mm wide, offering more space than the Hyundai Creta or Nissan Magnite, though it sits slightly higher in price.
Q: What colours are available for the KIA Seltos CRDI?
You get seven colour options including Glacier White Pearl, plus three two-tone combinations featuring Glacier White Pearl with black roof, Intense Red with black roof, and Punchy Orange with white roof.
Should You Buy It?
The KIA Seltos CRDI is a solid choice if you're hunting for a practical family SUV under R460,000 in South Africa. With its spacious cabin, decent 86 kW turbodiesel engine, and KIA's bulletproof warranty, it ticks the right boxes for families who need space without breaking the bank. The ride quality is comfortable, it handles dirt roads well, and the fuel economy should keep your wallet happy. Sure, it's not the most exciting drive you'll ever have, but for R389,995 starting price, you're getting a lot of car for your money. If you prioritise reliability, space, and value over sportiness, the Seltos CRDI deserves a spot on your shortlist.
