The Kia Seltos is a popular SUV in India and is also sold in several international markets. Although the Seltos sold in India and China looks broadly similar, there are some important differences between the two versions.

From cabin features and boot space to engine performance, the Chinese-spec Seltos gets some equipment that is not available in India, while the Indian version has its own advantage with a diesel engine option.

Size is almost identical, but boot space differs

The Seltos sold in both India and China has broadly the same dimensions. The Chinese model measures 4,460 mm in length, 1,830 mm in width and 1,640 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,690 mm.

The Indian model is also similar in size. However, there is a difference in luggage capacity.

The Chinese Seltos offers around 483 litres of boot space, while the Indian version offers around 447 litres. The difference may be related to how components such as the spare wheel are packaged in the two versions.

Chinese Seltos gets a more premium cabin

The Chinese version has an impressive technology-focused cabin. One of its biggest highlights is a large 27-inch ultra-wide display setup that combines the infotainment system with a screen for the front passenger.

It also gets a separate 10-inch digital instrument display for the driver.

The Indian Seltos features its own multi-screen setup, including the digital driver's display, infotainment screen and a separate display for climate-control functions. However, it does not get the passenger display offered in the Chinese model.

The Chinese version also offers features such as:

• Panoramic sunroof

• Wireless charging

• 100 kW Type-C charging

• Electrically adjustable driver's seat

• Heated and ventilated front seats

• Heated steering wheel

• Bose audio system

Several premium features are available on the Indian Seltos as well, but some equipment, including heated seats, a heated steering wheel and the higher-output charging option, is not offered in the same way.

Both versions also offer Level 2 ADAS technology.

Chinese turbo engine produces significantly more power

The biggest difference comes under the bonnet.

The Chinese Seltos is offered with a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine and a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine.

The Indian Seltos gets the same petrol engine options, but India also receives a 1.5-litre diesel engine.

The 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine in the Chinese model is claimed to produce around 198 bhp and 253 Nm of torque. In comparison, the Indian version produces around 158 bhp and 253 Nm of torque from its 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine.

That means the Chinese-spec turbo-petrol Seltos has roughly 40 bhp more power, while the torque figure remains the same.

The naturally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol engine produces around 113 bhp and 144 Nm of torque in both markets.

Could a hybrid Seltos arrive in India?

Kia is also expected to introduce a hybrid powertrain for the Seltos in India. Reports have suggested that the hybrid version could arrive around 2027, although the exact launch timeline and specifications would depend on Kia's official plans.

India vs China: Which Seltos is better?

The Chinese Seltos has the edge when it comes to certain premium cabin features and turbo-petrol performance. Its more powerful turbo engine and additional technology make it particularly impressive on paper.

The Indian Seltos, however, offers a diesel engine option and is equipped according to the preferences and requirements of the Indian market.

So, while the two SUVs share the same Seltos identity, Kia has equipped them differently for their respective markets. The Chinese model focuses more on power and premium technology, whereas the Indian version offers a broader powertrain choice.