European premiere: Kia brings the new generation Seltos to the European market
New Kia Seltos: The Subcompact SUV Targeting Europe – Bold Design and Launch Preparations!
Kia is set to expand its presence in the highly competitive European subcompact SUV market with the launch of the second-generation Seltos. Originally launched in 2019 in markets across Asia, Australia and North America, the new Seltos facelift is now set to make the big step and officially reach customers in Europe.
The official launch is scheduled to take place soon, on December 10, an expected moment that will bring more details about technical specifications and prices for our continent.
Revolutionary Design Under the Sign of "Opposites United"
The first images published by the South Korean manufacturer reveal an SUV with a much more mature and dynamic design, aligned with the brand's new design philosophy, called Opposites United.
Key visual elements include:
- Star Map Light Signature: The headlights receive a modern design with daytime running lights (DRL) that extend into the front grille, creating a distinctive identity.
- Unique Taillights: The rear is dominated by taillights with a graphic that combines horizontal and vertical lines, providing a wide and imposing appearance.
- Improved Aerodynamics: An aesthetic, but also functional, novelty is the hidden door handles, designed to contribute to increased aerodynamic efficiency.
- Top Equipment: The new Seltos will be available in at least two sporty and premium-looking equipment levels: X-Line and GT-Line, suggesting a wide range of customization options.
Expected Technical Specifications and Engines
Although full details for the European market will be revealed at launch, information from markets where the Seltos is already present suggests that the model will have dimensions suitable for the subcompact segment (length of approximately 4385 mm and width of 1800 mm).
The European variant is expected to include a range of electrified/hybrid powertrains, given market trends and emissions regulations. The European market could most likely receive turbocharged petrol engines, and recent sources indicate the possibility of an efficient hybrid version.
Also, inside, we can expect a major technological leap, with a digital cockpit that could integrate a large infotainment screen (possibly 10.25 inches) and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), essential for competitiveness in the segment.
Price Estimation for the Romanian Market
The Kia Seltos will position itself in the European market as a direct rival for models such as the Volkswagen T-Roc, Skoda Kamiq, Renault Captur or even its sibling, the Kia Stonic, offering a more spacious package than the latter.
Considering the positioning compared to the competition and the prices circulated for the European market (some sources indicate a price target of approximately €27,000 for an electrified version), we can make the following price estimate for Romania:
| Trim Level (Estimate) | Engine Type (Estimate) | Estimated Price (VAT included) |
| Start/Base (Essential Features) | 1.0 T-GDi Gasoline (Non-electrified) | between €21,000 and €23,000 |
| Mid-Level (Ex. EX) | 1.5 T-GDi Gasoline or Mild Hybrid | between €24,500 and €27,000 |
| Top (Ex. GT-Line/X-Line) | Hybrid or High-Power Engine | between €28,000 and €32,000+ |
This estimate is based on the base prices of current Kia models in Romania (such as the Stonic and Sportage) and prices in other international markets, adjusted for the specifics of the local market and for a potential hybrid engine. The final price will only be confirmed by the official importer upon launch.
The Seltos promises to be a valuable addition to Kia’s European portfolio, bringing a mix of attractive design, cutting-edge technology and, most likely, excellent competitiveness in terms of price/features. It remains to be seen what surprises the launch on December 10th will bring!