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Is the Kia Seltos available in the UK?
Kia Seltos is a global best-seller, but will the small SUV make it to UK shores?
Words by: Andrew Woodhouse
Published on 6 April 2022 | 0 min read
In both 2020 and 2021, Kia Seltos was the brand’s second best-selling model worldwide – behind only the Kia Sportage.
So, what makes the Seltos so successful, and will it be available in the UK?
So, what makes the Seltos so successful, and will it be available in the UK?
What is the Kia Seltos?
Kia Seltos is a sub-compact, five-door SUV.
There are three versions of the Seltos: a larger version released in North American and Australasian markets, two smaller, lower-cost versions codenamed SP2i (made and released in India) and SP2c (released as the Kia KX3 in China). These two smaller versions are built on the Hyundai-Kia K2 platform, which has also been used for B- and C-segment cars sold here like the Hyundai i20 and the Kia Rio. The Seltos features Kia’s famous ‘tiger nose’ grille, alongside newer touches like LED Daytime Running Lights, 3D multi-layer indicators and the choice of 16-, 17- or 18-inch alloy wheels.
There are three versions of the Seltos: a larger version released in North American and Australasian markets, two smaller, lower-cost versions codenamed SP2i (made and released in India) and SP2c (released as the Kia KX3 in China). These two smaller versions are built on the Hyundai-Kia K2 platform, which has also been used for B- and C-segment cars sold here like the Hyundai i20 and the Kia Rio. The Seltos features Kia’s famous ‘tiger nose’ grille, alongside newer touches like LED Daytime Running Lights, 3D multi-layer indicators and the choice of 16-, 17- or 18-inch alloy wheels.
Will Kia Seltos be available in the UK?
Kia Seltos isn’t currently available in European or UK markets.
Manufacturing standards differ around the world, and some models – like the Seltos available in India – wouldn’t meet the UK requirements for sale. Looking at safety gear as an example, the Seltos only gets two airbags and anti-lock brakes, which is below the standard specified in European law. There’s no word yet as to whether a European version of the Seltos will be made available.
Manufacturing standards differ around the world, and some models – like the Seltos available in India – wouldn’t meet the UK requirements for sale. Looking at safety gear as an example, the Seltos only gets two airbags and anti-lock brakes, which is below the standard specified in European law. There’s no word yet as to whether a European version of the Seltos will be made available.
What makes the Kia Seltos so popular?
The Kia Seltos is one of most popular SUVs in India.
Reviews point to the Kia Seltos being roomier than other sub-compact SUVs, with plenty of cabin space and a large boot. Looks are obviously subjective, but the Seltos has a classy air to it – juxtaposing soft features with a solid presence. Practical features like the high ground clearance mean SUVs like the Seltos is suited for well-weathered roads. There’s also a decent choice of engines, including a 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated engine, 1.5-litre diesel engine and a 1.4-litre turbocharged engine that comes with direct-injection. A six-speed manual gearbox is offered with all three engines as standard.
Reviews point to the Kia Seltos being roomier than other sub-compact SUVs, with plenty of cabin space and a large boot. Looks are obviously subjective, but the Seltos has a classy air to it – juxtaposing soft features with a solid presence. Practical features like the high ground clearance mean SUVs like the Seltos is suited for well-weathered roads. There’s also a decent choice of engines, including a 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated engine, 1.5-litre diesel engine and a 1.4-litre turbocharged engine that comes with direct-injection. A six-speed manual gearbox is offered with all three engines as standard.
Which cars compare to the Kia Seltos?
As mentioned above, the Kia Seltos is essentially built on same foundations as the Kia Rio and Kia Ceed, and also the Hyundai i20, Hyundai i30, Hyundai Bayon and many others.
You can learn more about platform sharing here. Looking at cars that weren’t built on the K2 platform, the Kia Seltos shares plenty in common with the likes of the Ford Puma, Volkswagen T-Cross, Renault Captur, Nissan Juke and others of that ilk. So, if you’re in the market for a car similar to the Seltos, you may find what you’re looking for there. Check out our list of the best small SUVs available today or find SUVs available and in stock today on Auto Trader.
You can learn more about platform sharing here. Looking at cars that weren’t built on the K2 platform, the Kia Seltos shares plenty in common with the likes of the Ford Puma, Volkswagen T-Cross, Renault Captur, Nissan Juke and others of that ilk. So, if you’re in the market for a car similar to the Seltos, you may find what you’re looking for there. Check out our list of the best small SUVs available today or find SUVs available and in stock today on Auto Trader.