Best Age of Used Kia Seltos to Buy
For Kia Seltos models launched back in August 2019, there are currently cars on the market that cater to different ages and that come with differing value offers.
1-2 Year Old Kia Seltos (post-facelift models, late 2023 onwards):
Expect a depreciation of around 15-25% from the original ex-showroom price. For a top-end variant that costs ₹20.30 lakh new, it may be available for roughly ₹15.20 lakh to ₹17.25 lakh.
2-4 Year Old Kia Seltos (pre-facelift models, 2021-2023):
This age group typically sees a depreciation of 30-45% from their original ex-showroom price. A Seltos that costs ₹16 lakh new might be available for ₹8.80 - ₹11.20 lakh.
4+ Year Old Kia Seltos (early models, 2019-2021):
These models would have depreciated by 45-60% or more from their original ex-showroom price. An early top-end model could be available for ₹6.40 - ₹8.80 lakh.
Our Expert RecommendationThe 2-4 year old Kia Seltos (pre-facelift, 2021-2023) offers the best balance between value, newer features, and still-excellent condition, making it the ideal age to buy. You end up with a very well-specced, reliable SUV for a fraction of the cost, which makes this a good value buy. If budget is a top priority, 4+ year old cars offer the ultimate savings, though inspection becomes increasingly crucial. If you absolutely need the newer features and appearance, a 1-2 year old post-facelift model offers a decent alternative, although you can expect somewhat inferior savings.
Best Used Kia Seltos Variant to Buy
The Kia Seltos has always been renowned for its extensive variant list, which offers something for every taste. The Seltos broadly categorizes its variants into two lines:
Tech Line (HT Line): Focuses on comfort, convenience, and family-oriented features. Variants include HTE, HTK, HTK+, HTX, and HTX+.
GT Line: Emphasizes sportiness, performance, and advanced technology. Variants include GTX+, X-Line, and earlier GTX.
Key Features to Look For Across Variants:
HTE/HTK: Basic features, steel wheels, smaller infotainment (or none), dual airbags.
HTK+: Adds projector fog lamps, rear wiper/washer, cruise control, automatic climate control, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
HTX: Significant upgrade with LED headlamps, LED DRLs, LED fog lamps, 17-inch alloy wheels, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, connected car tech (UVO/Kia Connect), ambient lighting, push-button start/stop, sunroof (panoramic in post-facelift), and rear reclining seats.
HTX+: Builds on HTX with ventilated seats, an 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat, Bose sound system, and a 360-degree camera.
GTX+/X-Line: Top-tier variants with sportier styling, red accents, all-black interiors, larger 18-inch wheels (X-Line), more airbags (6), and crucially, ADAS features in post-facelift models.
For the Absolute Best Value & Balanced Performance (Pre-facelift):
1.5L Diesel with 6-speed MT or ATIf you consider pre-facelift models (2019-2023), then the 1.5L diesel offers the greatest value for money and versatility. The engine's good fuel efficiency and strong torque make it suitable for both highway and urban driving. The manual costs less to buy and to own, and the torque converter automatic offers peerless convenience and smoothness. The pair, especially in HTX trim, provides a fantastic overall package.
For Modern Performance & Features (Post-facelift):
1.5L Turbo Petrol with 7-speed DCTUnless your budget extends to the newer, post-facelift models (from late 2023 onwards) and you need performance, then the 1.5L turbo petrol with DCT comes highly recommended. It's very fun to drive and comes well-equipped with the newest features, though bear in mind that there's a higher purchase price and, potentially, higher long-term maintenance costs for the DCT.
For Budget-Conscious & Refinement-Focused Buyers:
1.5L NA Petrol with CVTAs an urban-focused variant that prioritises smoothness and an effortless-to-drive car, not requiring stellar performance, the 1.5L NA petrol with CVT makes a very good and lower-priced offering on the second-hand market. It's also cheaper to service, by the way, versus the turbo-petrol or diesel variant.
Thus, on overall balance between performance, fuel efficiency, and reliability, the 1.5L Diesel (MT or AT) on a 2-4 year old car makes the most practical sense. If one looks for state-of-the-art features and peppy performance on a newer used car, the 1.5L Turbo Petrol with DCT makes a forceful argument.
Used Kia Seltos Petrol vs Used Kia Seltos Diesel
When buying a used Seltos, you'll likely end up presented with three engine options (depending on the model year):
1.5-litre Naturally Aspirated (NA) Petrol:
Power/Torque: 115 PS / 144 Nm
Transmission: 6-speed Manual (MT) or CVT automatic
ARAI Mileage: ~16.5 kmpl (MT), ~16.8 kmpl (CVT)
Best for: Buyers with primary city usage, low daily mileage, or those who prioritize refinement and a relaxed driving experience.
1.5-litre Turbo Petrol (Introduced with 2023 facelift, replacing the 1.4L Turbo Petrol):
Power/Torque: 160 PS / 253 Nm
Transmission: 6-speed iMT (intelligent Manual Transmission) or 7-speed DCT (Dual-Clutch Transmission)
ARAI Mileage: ~17.7 kmpl (iMT), ~17.9 kmpl (DCT)
Best suited for: Enthusiastic drivers, those with frequent highway usage, or buyers seeking strong performance and modern transmission technology. Note that these models will be newer (post-facelift) and thus more expensive in the used market.
1.5-litre Diesel:
Power/Torque: 116 PS / 250 Nm
Transmission: 6-speed Manual (MT), 6-speed iMT, or 6-speed Torque Converter Automatic (AT)
ARAI Mileage: ~20.7 kmpl (MT/iMT), ~18.3 kmpl (AT)
Best suited for: High-mileage users, those with frequent highway travel, or buyers who prioritize strong towing capacity and low operating costs.
Used Kia Seltos Ownership Calculator
The following is an estimated yearly cost breakdown that you will experience (car purchase and fuel not included):
1. Annual Service Costs
Kia recommends periodic maintenance every 10,000 km or 1 year, whichever comes first. The costs vary between minor and major services.
Average Annual Service Cost: ₹4,000 to ₹7,000
Major Service (e.g., 40,000 km / 4 years): ₹8,000 and ₹15,000.
Total over 5 years (approx. 50,000 km): ₹6,000 to ₹10,000 per year.
2. Tyre Replacement Cost
Tyres typically last between 40,000 and 50,000 km or 4-5 years, depending on driving habits and road conditions. The Kia Seltos comes with different tyre sizes across its variants:
Total Replacement Cost (set of 4):
For R16: ₹24,000 - ₹32,000
For R17: ₹32,000 - ₹44,000
For R18: ₹40,000 - ₹56,000.
This cost is incurred roughly every 4-5 years. When calculating annual ownership, amortize this cost, meaning roughly ₹6,000 to ₹11,200 per year towards tyre replacement, assuming an average annual driving distance of 10,000 km.
3. Specific Part Replacements (Common Wear & Tear)
These estimates are for common components that may require replacement over time. Actual costs can vary based on part availability (OEM vs. aftermarket) and labour charges.
Brake Pads (Front & Rear): Typically need replacement every 30,000 - 50,000 km.
Cost (set of 4, incl. labour): ₹4,500 - ₹8,000
Brake Discs (if needed): Might need replacement after 60,000 - 80,000 km.
Cost (pair, incl. labour): ₹7,000 - ₹12,000
Wiper Blades: Recommended annual replacement.
Cost (pair): ₹700 - ₹1,200
Battery: Lifespan typically 3-5 years.
Suspension Components (e.g., bushes, link rods, shock absorbers): May require attention after 60,000-80,000 km, especially with rough road usage.
Cost (per component, incl. labour): ₹2,500 - ₹6,000 (can vary significantly depending on the part).
Clutch Assembly (Manual/iMT only): Lifespan varies greatly with driving style (50,000 - 100,000+ km).
Cost: ₹10,000 - ₹18,000 (including labour)
DCT/AT Fluid Change (Automatic Transmission only): Typically required every 40,000 - 60,000 km.
4. Insurance Costs
This is a mandatory annual expense. The premium depends on the variant, Insured Declared Value (IDV), your location, no-claim bonus (NCB), and the type of coverage.
Average Annual Insurance: For a used Kia Seltos, expect to pay between ₹20,000 and ₹35,000 annually for comprehensive insurance, depending on the variant, age, and city.
5. Miscellaneous Costs
Car Detailing/Cleaning: Budget around ₹4,000 - ₹8,000 annually for professional deep cleaning or detailing.
Unforeseen Repairs/Minor Electricals: Allocate ₹3,000 - ₹5,000 annually for unexpected minor issues.
Estimated Annual Ownership Cost (Excluding Fuel & Loan EMIs)
Combining these factors, a conservative estimate for annual ownership costs (excluding fuel and EMIs) for a used Kia Seltos would be:
Annual Service: ₹8,000
Tyre Amortisation: ₹9,000 (average for R17, replaced every 4 years)
Common Part Replacements (annual average): ₹5,000 (highly variable, for minor wear and tear)
Insurance: ₹27,500
Miscellaneous: ₹4,000
Total Estimated Annual Ownership Cost: Approximately ₹53,500