Upgrading from a compact hatchback to a mid-size SUV is a big leap, and for me, the Kia Seltos Diesel AT was the perfect choice. After years of zipping around Bangalore in my trusty Hyundai Eon, I knew it was time for a change.
With a baby on the way and a new apartment, I needed a car that offered space, power, and reliability. Here’s my story of why the Kia Seltos stole my heart and why it might just be the SUV you’re looking for in 2025.
The Need for an Upgrade: A Growing Family
In November 2021, my wife and I moved into our new apartment in Bangalore. Our Hyundai Eon was great for quick city commutes, but it wasn’t cutting it anymore. Bangalore’s pothole-riddled roads demanded better ground clearance, and with our first baby due in August 2022, we needed a bigger, family-friendly car. A sedan seemed like an option, but a mid-size SUV felt like the smarter bet for our lifestyle.
Initially, I wasn’t keen on splurging for just the two of us. But the excitement of expecting a baby gave us the perfect excuse to upgrade. I dove into research, watched countless YouTube reviews, and narrowed it down to two contenders: the Tata Harrier and the Kia Seltos.
Why the Kia Seltos Won Me Over
Having driven a Hyundai, I was already a fan of the brand’s quality, fit, and finish. Kia, being part of the same family, brought that same reliability with a modern edge. The Seltos impressed me with its sleek design, feature-packed cabin, and refined engine options. The Tata Harrier was tempting—bigger and bolder with great ground clearance—but its service reputation worried me. As new parents-to-be, the last thing we wanted was frequent service center visits.
The Seltos ticked all the boxes: powerful engine, smooth automatic transmission, modern interiors, and a Kia service center just 1 km from our home. It felt like the perfect fit for our needs.
Booking the Seltos: A Colorful Decision
On January 2, 2022, we booked the Kia Seltos GTX+ Diesel Automatic in Intense Red at Epitome Kia, Whitefield, Bangalore. The wait time was 3-4 months, which aligned perfectly with our baby’s due date. But just weeks later, the dealer called with surprising news: a Gravity Grey Seltos was available immediately if we acted fast. I’d owned a white Maruti Zen before and wasn’t keen on white again, and black felt like a maintenance nightmare. Gravity Grey was a stylish, low-maintenance middle ground.
We rushed to the showroom, made the down payment, and secured the car. The loan process with SBI was smooth, and by February 2, 2022, we were driving our new Seltos home!
Kia Seltos Specs: What You Get
The Seltos GTX+ Diesel AT is powered by a 1.5L CRDi diesel engine paired with a 6-speed torque converter automatic. It delivers 115 hp and 250 Nm of torque, offering a perfect blend of power and efficiency. Here’s a quick look at its key features:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L CRDi Diesel, 115 hp, 250 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic (torque converter) |
| Fuel Economy | ~20 kmpl (improves after 5,000 km) |
| Features | Sunroof, cruise control, HUD, paddle shifters, 10.25-inch touchscreen |
| Safety | 6 airbags, ABS, ESC, hill-start assist |
| Price (2022) | ~₹18.5 lakh (ex-showroom, GTX+ variant) |
The cabin is loaded with premium touches like ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a Bose sound system. It’s a tech-lover’s dream!
First Drive Impressions: A Big Smile
Driving the Seltos for the first time was a revelation. Compared to the Eon, it felt massive yet easy to handle. Adjusting to an automatic was a learning curve—keeping my left foot idle took some getting used to—but the smooth torque converter made every drive a joy. My first U-turn outside the dealership put a huge grin on my face. The diesel engine’s low-end torque made city driving effortless.
Initially, the fuel economy was low, but after 5,000 km, it climbed to around 20 kmpl as I learned to ease off the accelerator. Filling up with diesel was a new experience, and I stuck to regular fuel stations since Shell wasn’t always nearby.
Hitting the Road: Hogenakkal Waterfalls Adventure
Our first big trip was to Hogenakkal Waterfalls, with my wife in her second trimester. The Seltos was a beast on the highway. Overtaking was a breeze, even without downshifting, and the cruise control made long drives relaxing. The heads-up display (HUD), inbuilt navigation, and voice controls were intuitive, while the panoramic sunroof added a fun vibe. At speeds of 140-150 kmph, the Seltos felt as stable as if I were cruising at 80 kmph. The road grip and handling inspired confidence, even on sharp curves.
Why the Seltos Is Perfect for Families
The Seltos isn’t just about performance—it’s a practical family car. The spacious cabin, high ground clearance (190 mm), and smooth ride make it ideal for Bangalore’s roads and beyond. Features like the 360-degree camera and ventilated seats kept us comfortable, while the diesel engine’s efficiency kept costs in check. With a service center nearby, maintenance has been hassle-free.
Should You Buy the Kia Seltos Diesel AT in 2025?
The Kia Seltos Diesel AT remains a fantastic choice in 2025. Its blend of style, features, and reliability makes it stand out in the crowded SUV market. Compared to rivals like the Hyundai Creta or Tata Harrier, the Seltos offers a premium experience at a competitive price. If you’re upgrading from a compact car like I did, the Seltos will feel like a massive step up without breaking the bank.
FAQs About the Kia Seltos Diesel AT
Q: Why choose the Kia Seltos Diesel AT over other SUVs?
A: The Seltos offers a refined diesel engine, smooth automatic transmission, premium features, and reliable service, making it ideal for families and city driving.
Q: What is the fuel economy of the Seltos Diesel AT?
A: It delivers around 20 kmpl after the initial break-in period, depending on driving habits.
Q: Is the Kia Seltos good for highway drives?
A: Yes, its powerful diesel engine, stable handling, and features like cruise control make it excellent for long highway trips.
Q: How does the Seltos compare to the Tata Harrier?
A: The Seltos has better service reliability and a feature-rich cabin, while the Harrier offers more space and a bolder design.
Q: What is the price of the Kia Seltos Diesel AT in 2025?
A: The GTX+ Diesel AT is priced around ₹18.5-20 lakh (ex-showroom), depending on the variant and location.