City Drive vs Highway: Is the Kia Seltos Still Fun to Drive?

The Kia Seltos has carved out its place in the compact SUV segment, appealing to a broad set of Indian drivers. Some admire its urban practicality, while others count on it for highway stability and long-distance comfort. But the real question is, does it strike the right balance between these two driving scenarios? This blog walks through both ends of the driving spectrum, highlighting how the Seltos handles city traffic and open highways.

Powertrain Options That Shape the Experience

The Kia Seltos doesn’t offer just one driving flavour. With three engines in the line-up, drivers can pick what matches their routine and style.

1.5L Turbo Petrol (G1.5 T-GDi)

Output: 160 PS at 5,500 rpm

Torque: 253 Nm from 1,500 to 3,500 rpm

1.5L NA Petrol (G1.5)

Output: 115 PS at 6,300 rpm

Torque: 144 Nm at 4,500 rpm

1.5L Diesel (CRDi VGT)

Output: 116 PS at 4,000 rpm

Torque: 250 Nm between 1,500 and 2,750 rpm

Each of these options gives the Seltos a different personality, from smooth and refined to torquey and spirited.

Navigating the City: Built for Everyday Use

In a crowded city like Mumbai, Bengaluru, or Delhi, your car needs to make peace with stop-go traffic, tight spaces, and random detours. The Seltos handles all that with confidence.

Effortless Manoeuvrability

One of the standout traits in day-to-day use is how light the steering feels at low speeds. Whether you’re turning into a narrow bylane or reversing into a small parking slot, the Seltos doesn’t resist. It follows your inputs with minimal effort.

Ideal Petrol Variant for Urban Runs

The 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol variant, especially when paired with the IVT (Intelligent Variable Transmission), is designed for relaxed commuting. The throttle response isn’t jumpy. It moves at its own pace, ideal for city dwellers who don’t want a demanding car.

Suspension Comfort and Road Feedback

Urban roads are rarely perfect. But the Seltos softens the ride just enough to shield passengers from harsh bumps. Whether it’s a pothole you didn’t see or a speed breaker that came out of nowhere, the car glides over most of them without sending too many shocks into the cabin.

Useful City-Focused Features

A rear-view camera, front and rear sensors, and a good turning radius add to the convenience. If your variant supports idle start-stop, the engine shuts off at red lights and starts again seamlessly when you lift your foot, helping save some fuel without even thinking about it.

Out on the Highway: Time to Stretch Its Legs

Give the Seltos some space, and it shows a different side. On highways, it transforms into a more capable cruiser that’s ready for long stretches and open lanes.

The Turbo Variant Delivers Punch

Among the three engine options, the 1.5L turbo petrol is clearly the most responsive. The torque comes in early, and it shows, especially when you need to overtake without delay. It doesn’t struggle to gather speed and still maintains composure while doing so.

Diesel Engine: A Long-Distance Companion

The diesel version isn’t about speed, but consistency. It has enough low-end torque to manage slopes, climbs, and highway cruising without constantly changing gears. Once settled into cruising speed, the engine hums quietly, making the cabin feel calm even after hours on the road.

Ride Quality and Cabin Sound Levels

At higher speeds, the Kia Seltos suspension firms up slightly, which is good. It keeps the car steady on long curves and uneven patches. Road and wind noise are present but controlled. Conversations don’t get drowned out, and music doesn’t need to be blasted.

Driver Confidence at Speed

A quick lane change, a slight correction in direction, or a minor swerve; none of these feels unpredictable. The chassis holds its line, the steering adds weight, and the brakes engage smoothly without biting too hard.

Gearbox Options: Real-World Suitability

Depending on the engine you pick, the Seltos offers several transmission options:

• IVT (available with the NA petrol)

• 6-speed iMT (available with turbo petrol)

• 7-speed DCT (paired with turbo petrol)

• 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic (paired with diesel)

In Town

For city use, the IVT or diesel automatic provides a relaxed driving style. The iMT is a clever alternative; no clutch pedal, but you still control when to shift. For people who prefer a bit more involvement without the strain of a clutch, this can be a good match.

On the Highway

The 7-speed DCT works best when cruising or overtaking. Shifts are crisp, and there’s no noticeable lag. Diesel variants with manual or automatic transmission offer linear power delivery, making them comfortable for long hours of driving.

Verdict: Still Worth Driving?

Despite growing competition, the Seltos continues to feel enjoyable for everyday and long-distance driving. It doesn’t try to overdo anything. Instead, it offers just the right mix, steady in traffic, lively on the highway, and capable across both terrains.

If your routine includes a bit of everything, including weekday commutes and weekend trips, this SUV delivers on both ends without compromising. And yes, the fun hasn’t faded.