BHPian VigneshMC<\/strong> recently shared this with other enthusiasts.<\/p>\n I recently purchased a Kia Seltos HTK 2023 and have been driving it for about a month, covering approximately 1000 kilometers. To provide some context, we also own a 2017 Baleno, which I will use as a point of comparison in this review.<\/p>\n The delivery experience at Capital Kia Chennai on September 21st left something to be desired. Despite my request for an early handover around 10:30 AM, I arrived slightly late at 10:35 AM due to morning rains. However, there were significant delays in their process, and I didn’t leave the dealership until 12:45 PM. Furthermore, the vehicle wasn’t adequately cleaned, both inside and out, despite the extended wait. Although I noticed this before departing, I chose not to raise the issue due to my time constraints.<\/p>\n I later addressed this issue in their feedback call, and they offered to rectify it with a cleaning session. I declined and suggested that they pay attention to this during the first service.<\/p>\n In the meantime, I embarked on a 1000-kilometer round trip, and here are my observations:<\/p>\n Build:<\/strong> The build quality of the Seltos is noticeably superior to the Baleno, with well-weighted doors.<\/p>\n Handling and Drivability:<\/strong> Despite its larger size compared to the Baleno and other hatchbacks I’m accustomed to, the Seltos offers ease of maneuverability. It also impresses with high-speed stability. The steering and clutch are notably better than the Baleno.<\/p>\n Suspension:<\/strong> The suspension system is very effective, absorbing bumps with ease.<\/p>\n Infotainment System: While the Seltos’s infotainment system is competent, I found the Baleno’s to be more user-friendly and refined. Nevertheless, I have no major complaints, and the wireless Android Auto works well. Audio output is acceptable. The Baleno’s reverse camera outperforms the Seltos, particularly in low-light conditions.<\/p>\n Performance:<\/strong> The Baleno’s 1.2 engine feels a bit peppier than the Seltos’s 1.5 NA petrol engine. However, this doesn’t pose a significant issue.<\/p>\n Lights:<\/strong> Though I haven’t had extensive night driving experience, the Seltos’s headlights felt somewhat inadequate. Baleno’s projectors offer better illumination.<\/p>\n Service Experience:<\/strong> I booked my first service for October 14th with Capital Kia through the KIA app on October 11th, and the process went smoothly, including a confirmation call the next day. However, I received a message on the 13th stating I needed to reschedule due to an unexpected maintenance activity. This was frustrating, given the prior confirmation. I eventually rescheduled for October 15th. Utilizing the pickup and drop service, I received the driver’s details on the 14th and confirmed the pickup location.<\/p>\n The car was picked up and delivered for service on time, complete with photos during pickup and delivery to the service center. Despite my specific request for interior cleaning, it was not properly addressed, and I found some areas were overlooked.<\/p>\n Additionally, I inquired about upgrading my steel tires to alloys before my first service. I contacted a service advisor who requested my car number but did not respond, even after two weeks and multiple follow-up messages. During my first service, I was told that the accessories team was unavailable on Sundays.<\/p>\n Compared to my consistent 10\/10 service experiences with Maruti over the last six years, Kia charges for pickup and drop services, which Maruti does not.<\/p>\n In conclusion, I’m satisfied with my decision to choose the Seltos. Although the delivery and service experiences with Kia have room for improvement, I’ve only had one service so far. I’ll wait for additional experiences before forming a more concrete opinion.<\/p>\n Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information<\/p>\n