New Models / 6 August 2026 / Michael Taylor

New Kia Seltos launched in South Africa – Pricing and features

Kia has officially launched the new Seltos crossover in South Africa, boasting a new design, a fully digital cabin, and a variety of powertrains.

The new Seltos is available in seven derivatives spread across five trim levels – the LS, LX, GT-Line, X-Line, and GT Line S – and prices start at R389,995.

“Built on Kia’s Opposites United design philosophy, the new Seltos is aimed squarely at buyers who want a compact SUV that looks and feels distinctive without compromising on everyday usability,” said the carmaker.

Engines

The Seltos is available with one of three different engines, starting with a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol block good for 85kW and 144Nm.

This can be paired with either a six-speed manual or a CVT transmission, which connects to the front wheels, resulting in an average fuel consumption of between 6.2l/100km and 6.4l/100km.

Next up is a 1.5-litre turbocharged diesel (CRDi) engine that produces 85kW and a considerably higher torque output of 250Nm.

This option is paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox, and has the lowest fuel consumption of the group at 5.3l/100km.

Last but not least is a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine linked to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic shifter, which generates 119kW and 253Nm and is reserved for the top-spec GT-Line S.

Features

Visually, the new Seltos uses Kia’s signature “Star Map” LED lighting, which plays an animated welcome light sequence when the driver approaches.

It also has flush door handles that improve aerodynamic efficiency while creating a sleek visual profile, a “floating roof design,” and vertical LED tail lamps.

The X-Line models also have exclusive matte Dark Gun Metal Grey exterior finish paired with full black alloy wheels.

The crossover’s cabin has been reworked around the driver with a low horizontal dashboard to improve forward visibility, and a simplified layout.

On the LS grade, you’ll find a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, which upgrades to a larger 12.3-inch display on the LX.

The X-Line And GT-Line pair this with a 12-inch digital instrument cluster, creating a panoramic dual display.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across the range, along with a multifunction steering wheel and voice recognition. The range-topping models also gain a Bose stereo and ambient lighting.

Starting on the LX, buyers can expect dual-zone climate control, and keyless entry and start. The GT-Line adds a wireless phone charger and a panoramic sunroof, and the X-Line and GT-Line S have ventilated front seats with lumbar support and electronic adjustment.

Core safety fittings include ABS, electronic stability control, hill start assist, tyre pressure monitoring, a rear-view camera and ISOFIX child-seat anchors.

As you move up the trim levels, the Seltos will gain rear parking sensors, front parking sensors, a speed limiter, blind spot detection, lane keep assist, forward collision avoidance assist, lane follow assist, and smart cruise control with Stop & Go.