Introduction

We all know that one item of clothing that is ever so popular, yet so impractical. One such item for me is the All Star “tekkies”. Everyone seems to like them except me. In summer, they are oven hot and winter it feels like I am walking barefoot on ice. They are a lousy excuse for covering our feet. And, one cannot even classify them as bedroom sleepers either.

February sees KIA South Africa penetrate a very tight B-segment SUV market with the recent launch of the Seltos. As a brand they have come a long way, 21 years in the market that went by quickly, and a chunky dealer network to ensure they remain accessible, thus growing client confidence of their products. The Seltos is not a replacement model but an entirely new product.

So popular is the new-comer that even before being launched nationally, it was already selling like hot cakes off showroom floors by as early as mid-November of the previous year. And, according to the brand CEO, Gary Scott, these figures are on a bullish upward trend. On the launch I had first-hand experience why they are becoming so popular, and far more practical than the All Stars.

The new “makoti” (bride)

While some consumers may be on a buy down trend, they do not wish to compromise on quality and creature comforts. The Seltos finds itself in a sweet spot that satisfies such consumer needs. Built in India, only the best quality grade plastics and materials were chosen, pushing it into the upper B-segment. And, like a nosy neighbour, it leans over the fence challenging the lower C-segment.

“It is aimed at the young, or young at heart buyer”, so says marketing manager, Christo Valentyn. That is evident in the 10-colour variety it comes out in, some of which are also in two-tone. The styling is crispy fresh, easy on the eye, with the upper models boasting more rugged like body protection. The sides have a chrome belt line. The grille is bigger and wider, what KIA refers to as the tiger nose evolution. Daytime running lights come standard throughout the range.

Currently the following derivatives are available: EX, EX+ and the T-GDi GT range (which can easily be confused as a diesel just going by the name). That sees only the EX version being offered in fabric seats.

Inside the cabin, I was treated to a fresh blend of quality materials, user-friendly bells and whistles switches, and a race like steering wheel. At the very center of the cabin, and within easy reach is a large infotainment display. Connection to my mobile device was as simple as matching All Stars to any outfit. The instrument cluster is analogue, which I really like and information from the cockpit is processed quickly in a glance.