Facelifted Kia Seltos looks absolutely fresh AF
Kia reveals first images of the updated Seltos
If there's a crossover that needs to get a refresh soon, it's the Kia Seltos. Despite being relatively new to the Philippine market, the B-segment fighter was somewhat overshadowed by its smaller (and more affordable) sibling, the Stonic.
However, Kia has dropped the first images of the redesigned Seltos, and boy was the automaker busy giving it a sleeker appearance. Based on the pictures they have released, it seems they borrowed some inspiration from the all-new Sportage that debuted last year.
The LED headlights have been heavily redesigned and now come with new LED daytime running lights (DRLs). The front bumper was tweaked and now sports a new skid plate. Other changes present include a bolder black grille and vertical LED foglights that spruce up the Seltos' face.
The rear was given attention as well and gets a new LED lightbar. The taillights, on the other hand, now have a sharper design that gives the crossover a more aggressive look. Last but not least, the bumper and rear reflectors were given a touch-up for extra pizzaz.
It wouldn't be complete if Kia left the interior as it is. But instead of just a simple restyle, the automaker was also given some noticeable changes. For starters, the typical gear selector has been replaced with a rotary-style knob that frees-up cabin space around the middle. There are also a pair of 10.25-inch screens that serve as the digital instrument panel and infotainment media display. More than likely these are reserved for the top-of-the-line variants as lesser models could come with traditional gauges and maybe a smaller touchscreen.
While Kia could have opted for a touchscreen-based system for the HVAC controls, the automaker actually retained physical buttons for the system that is then paired to a digital display. Perhaps Kia thinks that customers still prefer some form of tradition inside the updated Seltos.
Technical specifications have yet to be revealed by the company. However, since it's expected to debut at this year's Busan Motor Show in Korea, we won't be surprised if Kia reveals all of the details of the facelifted B-segment crossover at the upcoming event.
With the Seltos due for a facelift in the Philippines, could it mean we might get it later this year or the next? Perhaps, but first, it has to make its global debut in its home market. In addition, we might get the next-gen Sportage first as it could be revealed at this year's Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS).
