Things we like
- Turbo-petrol powertrain
- Practical cabin
- Good chassis balance
Not so much
- Some rough plastics throughout cabin
- Frustrating speed limit assist
- No hybrid options
Kia's step into the small SUV segment and subsequent success with the Seltos has been nothing short of impressive, since its arrival back in 2019. Its 2023 facelift brings a fresher look and new tech, including an updated infotainment system.
Designed to make a statement, the range-topping GT-Line packs in everything that the Seltos has to offer.
Kia isn't alone in introducing an SUV into a segment already bursting with options, so let's take a look at what the South Korean manufacturer is offering.
Pricing and features
Positioned as the flagship variant, the GT-Line is packed with features and kicks off at $41,500 before on-road costs.
It's powered by a 2.0L four-cylinder engine developing 110kW of power and 180Nm of torque and comes paired with a CVT.
If you're looking for more performance, for an extra $3400 you can choose the 1.6 litre-turbocharged petrol engine, producing 146kW and 265Nm. It is paired to an 8-speed automatic and is AWD only.
Feature | Seltos FWD | Seltos AWD |
---|---|---|
Drive | front-wheel | all-wheel |
Engine | 2.0L, MPI I4, DOHC, Atkinson cycle petrol | 1.6L, DI I4, DOHC, CVVD turbo-petrol |
Power | 110kW | 146kW |
Torque | 180Nm | 265Nm |
0-100km/h (claimed) | 10 seconds (estimated) | 8.5 seconds |
Transmission | continuously variable | 8-speed torque converter |
Body | steel, 5-door, 5-seat small SUV | steel, 5-door, 5-seat small SUV |
Weight | 1375kg | 1495kg |
Fuel consumption (tested) | 6.7lL100km | 8.7L/100km |
Boot space | 433L (S 468L) | 433L |
Choosing the Seltos GT-Line, you'll get:
18-inch alloy wheels | LED headlights |
Synthetic leather seats | LED interior lights |
Heated and cooled front seats | LED daytime running lights |
8-speaker Bose sound system | Electric front seat adjustment with memory |
Heated steering wheel | Power tailgate |
Qi wireless phone charging | Rear-seat centre armrest |
10.25" digital instrument cluster | Two-tone paint option |
10.25" infotainment display | Head-up display |
As is common (but still strange) with the Kia line-up, only the entry level model paired with the 8" infotainment display will get wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto. These softwares are only available via wired pairing in the Sport, Sport+ and GT-Line variants.
Available in 9 colours, the GT-line offers two-tone paint as a no cost-option, while all other colours (except Mars Orange) carry a $520 premium.
Safety
The entire Seltos range is covered by a 5-star ANCAP rating, including an 85% Adult Occupant Protection score.
Kia's commitment to safety is propelled by features like lane-keep assist, rear-cross traffic alert, AEB and driver attention alert coming standard.
Also available are key features like a reversing camera, rear seatbelt reminders and front and rear parking sensors – all impressive inclusions throughout all Seltos variants.
Key rivals
The compact SUV segment in Australia is a hotly contested space, with several models vying for the top spot, including top-spec models such as:
There's no shortage of small SUVs in Australia, so styling and design rank highly on reasons for purchase. It's up to you to decide if the sporty looking GT-Line ticks your visual boxes.
Should I put it on my shortlist?
The 2023 Kia Seltos GT-Line is a compelling option for those looking for a compact SUV that doesn't compromise on features, especially safety.
Its blend of style, space and tech makes it a strong contender in its segment.
While there are areas for improvement (as there are with every car), its overall package and affordable pricing versus key competitors make it a vehicle worth considering for your next purchase.
Things we like
- Turbo-petrol powertrain
- Practical cabin
- Good chassis balance
Not so much
- Some rough plastics throughout cabin
- Frustrating speed limit assist
- No hybrid options
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