The Kia Seltos is a popular choice among compact SUVS, known for its premium styling, advanced features, and reliable road performance. Apart from its powerful engine and well-tuned suspension system, the manufacturer-recommended tyres play a crucial role in its overall driving experience.
Therefore, choosing the right tyre size and maintaining the correct air pressure are key to ensuring good handling, mileage, and comfort.
Continue reading to understand the recommended tyre size, ideal air pressure, price ranges, upgrade options, and more details about the Kia Seltos tyres.
Kia Seltos Tyre Overview
Depending on the trim level, the Kia Seltos usually comes with all-season tyres, most frequently the Kumho Majesty 9 TA91 or the Kumho Solus TA31. Based on the variant, the car comes with 16-inch steel wheels and 17-inch alloy wheels, for which the recommended tyre sizes are 205/65 R16 and 215/60 R17, respectively.
The Kia Seltos tyres provide:
- Enhanced grip and traction
- Fuel efficiency
- Low road noise
- Comfortable ride
Standard Factory-Fitted Tyres
Both the petrol and diesel versions of the Kia Seltos come with 205/65 R16 or 215/60 R17 tyres, such as MRF Wanderer or Apollo Alnac, offering a superb grip on both wet and dry roads. Tyre configuration for base and top-end Kia Seltos models is as follows:
- Base Variants: Ranging from 205/65 R16 for lower-spec models to 215/60 R17 for higher-spec GT-Line.
- Top Variants: Some top variants come with 215/ 55 R18 tyres.
Importance of Manufacturer-Recommended Tyre Types
Following the Kia Seltos tyre specifications ensures:
- ABS (anti-lock braking systems) and ESC (electronic stability control) compatibility for better security
- Accurate speedometer readings
- Better fuel efficiency
- Warranty protection
Kia Seltos Tyre Size by Variant
The table below represents the variant-wise Kia Seltos tyre size specifications and wheel-size format:
| Variant | Tyre Size | Wheel Size | Tyre Type |
| HTE Diesel | 205/65 R16 | 16-inch | Tubeless |
| HTE G | 205/65 R16 | 16-inch | Tubeless |
| GTK | 215/60 R17 | 17-inch | Tubeless |
| HTX Plus Diesel | 215/60 R17 | 17-inch | Tubeless |
| X-Line Diesel AT | 215/55 R18 | 18-inch | Tubeless |
| X-Line DCT | 215/55 R18 | 18-inch | Tubeless |
Understanding Tyre Size Format
The tyre size is written in the format 205/65 R17, where the components refer to:
- 205: Width (in mm)
- 65: Aspect ratio (profile)
- R17: Rim diameter (in inches)
Impact of Tyre (Wheel) Size
- Tyres with a width of 215 mm or more provide better traction, which facilitates better grip on wet roads.
- 16-inch wheels offer lower rolling resistance, leading to better mileage.
- Wheel diameters of 17 inches and higher enhance high-speed stability, but they can also lead to lower mileage and increased road noise.
- Tyres with higher aspect ratios (65 series), absorb road imperfections, making way for a smooth driving experience. Meanwhile, tyres with low aspect ratios (55 series) may offer a sporty driving experience but can result in a bumpier ride.
Kia Seltos Tyre Pressure (Recommended PSI)
The ideal Kia Seltos tyre pressure range is between 30 and 35 PSI. Here are the accurate tyre pressures recommended under usual driving and loading conditions:
| Tyre Type | Recommended Pressure |
| Front Tyres (without load) | 35 PSI |
| Rear Tyres (without load) | 33 PSI |
| Front Tyres (with load) | 35 PSI |
| Rear Tyres (with load) | 33 PSI |
Cold vs. Hot Tyre Pressure Check
- Cold Tyre Pressure
Check the cold tyre pressure when the Kia Seltos has not been driven for at least three hours or has covered less than 2 kilometres.
- Hot Tyre Pressure
To check the hot tyre pressure, use a pressure gauge to measure the pressure of each Kia Seltos tyre after driving for more than 10 minutes.
Why Correct Tyre Pressure Matters?
Accurate tyre pressure matters for the following reasons:
- Grip and Stability: Under-inflated tyres will likely result in a loss of grip, making the vehicle difficult to manage.
- Safety: Imbalanced wear and tear of the tyre due to incorrect pressure shortens lifespan, and raises safety issues.
- Fuel Efficiency: Under-inflated tyres raise rolling resistance, and more fuel is needed to keep up the speed.
Kia Seltos Tyre Price in India
Kia Seltos tyre prices tend to vary by size, brand, and method of purchase. The following table showcases the tyre pricing variations:
| Brand | Tyre Size | Average Price Range (per tyre) |
MRF Tyres | 205/65 R16 ZVTV | ₹6,000 – ₹8,000 |
| 205/65 R16 95H ET TL Wanderer Street | ₹8,000 – ₹9,500 | |
Bridgestone Tyres | 215/60 R17 96H DUELER H/P SPORT | ₹9,000 – ₹10,000 |
Yokohama Tyres | 215/60 R17 96H Earth-1E400 | ₹9,000 – ₹11,500 |
CEAT Tyres | 205/65 R16 95H Milaze X3 | ₹4,000 – ₹6,000 |
Dealer vs. Online Pricing Comparison
There is a significant difference in prices between authorised dealers and online websites. The table below discusses both of their pros and cons:
| Purchase Option | Pros | Cons |
| Authorised dealers | Free fitting and wheel balancingGenuine Warranty | Higher prices (10-15% more) |
| Online (Tyremarket, Flipkart, Amazon) | Discounts and free home delivery | Extra charges for fitting |
Full Set Replacement vs Single Tyre Cost
Price variations for full set tyre replacement and single tyre are as follows:
- Single Tyre Cost: ₹4,000 – ₹11,500 (as per brand and size)
- Full Set Replacement (4 tyres): ₹16,000 – ₹46,000
- Additional Costs: Alignment cost (post-installation) is between ₹300 and ₹600. Valve replacement costs ₹200 per tyre.
Best Tyre Brands for Kia Seltos
Check out the top Kia Seltos tyre brands in the table below:
| Tyre Type | Premium Choice | Value-for-Money Choice |
| Performance-Oriented Tyres | Michelin Wet and dry gripLow road noiseHigh-speed | Apollo Good grip in wet areasDurableAffordable |
| Long-Lasting Tyres | Bridgestone Long tread lifeComfortable rideStrong wet-weather performance | JK Tyre RobustModerate wet gripAffordable |
Features to Look for in Kia Seltos Tyres
- Wet Grip: It prevents hydroplaning. The best tyre brands for wet grip are Michelin and Bridgestone.
- Noise Reduction: Tyres with reduced noise provide comfortable driving. Continental and Pirelli are the best tyre brands for less road noise.
- Tread Warranty: The best tread warranty is 40,000-80,000 km. It is offered by Michelin tyres for up to 80,000 km.
Kia Seltos Spare Tyre Details
The Kia Seltos comes equipped with a space-saver spare tyre, also known as a compact spare. It is designed to be smaller and lighter than the standard wheels and is meant for temporary use only.
This tyre is stored under the car’s cargo area. In case of punctures, you can use the spare tyre for a distance of up to 80 kms at an 80 kmph speed. Remember, spare tyres are for temporary use only.
Thus, if your car is using a spare tyre, get it replaced immediately.
How to Know When to Replace Kia Seltos Tyres?
Use the following key indicators to know when you need to replace your Kia Seltos tyres:
- Bald Tread: The traction is low if tread grooves are almost smooth.
- Sidewall Cracks: Cuts show ageing or damage in the tyre.
- Poor Braking: Uneven braking means poor traction.
- Check Tread Depth: Place a ₹5 coin in the tread. If the outer band is seen, you must replace the tyre.
- Average Tyre Life: Change the tyre every 5 to 6 years.
Tyre Maintenance Tips for Kia Seltos Owners
Proper tyre maintenance is essential for ensuring the safety, performance, and longevity of your Kia Seltos. By following these simple tips, you can extend the lifespan of your tyres:
- Check Tyre Pressure Regularly
Regularly check and maintain the recommended tyre pressure, which is 35 PSI for all Kia Seltos tyres, especially when cold, meaning the car has been parked for at least three hours. Use a good quality gauge to ensure accurate readings.
- Wheel Alignment and Balancing
Get your car’s wheels aligned and balanced periodically to ensure they roll parallel to each other and minimise uneven wear.
- Inspect Tyres for Damage
Regularly inspect your tyres for any visible damage, such as cuts, punctures, cracks, or bulges. If you find any damage, it is best to have the tyre checked by a professional and replaced if necessary.
- Load Capacity
Be mindful of the vehicle’s load capacity. Overloading can put extra stress on the tyres and lead to premature wear or damage.
Can You Upgrade Kia Seltos Tyres?
You can upgrade your Kia Seltos tyres, but you must do so carefully to maintain safety and performance.
Pros of Upsizing
- Improved grip and stability
- Enhanced appearance
- Improved braking
Cons of Upsizing
- Lower fuel economy
- Less comfort
- Speedometer inaccuracy
Ideal Upsize Options
- 235/55 R17
- 205/60/ R16
Always get advice from a tyre expert and follow the manufacturer’s suggested tolerance limits to prevent damage or safety concerns. Furthermore, investing in a good set of tyres from a reputable brand that uses durable rubber compounds and offers a high tread warranty will help you save costs in the long run.
FAQs About Kia Seltos Tyre
Q. What is the Kia Seltos tyre size?
The standard tyre size for the Kia Seltos varies by variant. Most base to mid-level trims come with 205/65 R16 or 215/60 R17.
Q. What is the tyre pressure for the Kia Seltos?
The recommended tyre pressure for the Kia Seltos is typically 35 PSI and 33 PSI for the front and rear tyres, respectively.
Q. Can I upgrade the Kia Seltos to 19-inch tyres?
Upgrading to 19-inch tyres is not officially advised for Kia Seltos cars as it may compromise the speedometer’s accuracy. For best results, use the recommended 16 or 17-inch tyres as per the variant.
Q. How much does a Kia Seltos tyre cost?
The cost of Kia Seltos tyres typically ranges between ₹4,000 and ₹11,500 per tyre, depending on the size, brand, and type.
Q. Which is the best tyre brand for the Kia Seltos?
Top tyre brands for the Kia Seltos include Bridgestone (Dueler), MRF (Wanderer), Ceat (Czar), and Apollo (Apterra), all of which offer a good balance of durability and grip.
Q. How long do Kia Seltos tyres last?
Kia Seltos tyres typically last between 40,000 km and 70,000 km, depending on driving habits, road conditions, and regular maintenance like alignment and balancing.
