The Kia Seltos X-Line brings a premium, more rugged spin to one of India’s most popular midsize SUVs. Designed to appeal to buyers who want a bold look and a bit more presence on the road, the X-Line variant combines upscale aesthetics with strong performance and comfort for both city commutes and long highway journeys. After thorough testing in both environments, here’s a detailed look at what makes the Seltos X-Line stand out.
Rugged Sophistication with a Distinct Identity
Visually, the X-Line wears its exclusivity well. The standout Matte Graphite paint, paired with signature orange accents on the front skid plate, side cladding, and rear bumper, gives the SUV a distinctive and aggressive road presence. The dark chrome grille and exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels further set it apart from the regular Seltos lineup.
This rugged styling doesn’t just look good—it’s practical too. The raised stance and improved approach angles give it a more commanding view of the road and better clearance over rough patches, especially in semi-urban and uneven terrains.
City Driving: Smooth, Agile, and Comfortable
In city conditions, the Seltos X-Line excels with its easy maneuverability and light steering. Despite its SUV proportions, the vehicle feels compact enough for tight urban spaces. The steering is responsive and the turning radius is manageable, which helps in navigating narrow streets and crowded traffic with ease.
The 1.5-liter turbo-petrol engine mated to a 7-speed DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) delivers smooth and refined performance in stop-and-go traffic. Gear shifts are barely noticeable, and the throttle response is tuned to be gentle at low speeds, making the drive comfortable and stress-free in congested areas.
Highway Test: Stable, Powerful, and Refined
On the highway, the Seltos X-Line truly comes into its own. The turbocharged petrol engine provides strong acceleration, and overtaking is quick and effortless. Cruising at triple-digit speeds feels natural, with minimal engine noise filtering into the cabin.
High-speed stability is excellent, thanks to the SUV’s stiff chassis and well-tuned suspension. Even on winding roads or uneven stretches, the Seltos X-Line remains planted, inspiring confidence in the driver. The DCT gearbox performs well under pressure, offering crisp shifts during spirited driving.
Braking performance is also commendable, with good bite and progressive pedal feedback that enhances overall safety and control.
Cabin and Features: Premium with a Sporty Edge
Step inside, and the X-Line welcomes you with a premium cabin dressed in a dark theme, complemented by leatherette upholstery with orange contrast stitching. The seats are well-bolstered, offering comfort during both short city hops and extended highway drives. The cabin insulation is impressive, keeping out most road and wind noise.
In terms of features, the Seltos X-Line is fully loaded. It boasts a large 10.25-inch touchscreen with smartphone connectivity, Bose premium audio system, wireless charging, ventilated front seats, 360-degree camera, and a panoramic sunroof. These add up to a luxurious experience inside the cabin, regardless of driving conditions.
Safety and Technology
Safety is a top priority in the X-Line, with six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, hill-start assist, and a tyre pressure monitoring system offered as standard. Higher variants also come with advanced driver assistance features, making long journeys safer and more convenient.
Fuel Efficiency and Real-World Usability
Despite its performance credentials, the Seltos X-Line remains efficient. In mixed driving conditions, the turbo-petrol DCT variant delivers around 14-16 km/l, which is respectable for a vehicle of its size and power output. The diesel variant, known for its frugality, pushes those numbers even higher.
Verdict: Stylish and Versatile Performer
The Kia Seltos X-Line strikes an ideal balance between style, performance, and everyday usability. It’s equally at home in crowded city lanes and on wide-open highways. With its distinctive design, feature-rich cabin, and engaging drive, it elevates the Seltos experience to a more premium, lifestyle-oriented level.
If you’re in the market for a feature-loaded, head-turning SUV that performs well in all driving scenarios, the Kia Seltos X-Line is a strong contender worth considering.
