Can this new KIA Malaysia team take on the strong influx of new Chinese made vehicles
The launch of the second-generation, year 2027 KIA Seltos has just happened in some markets and we in Malaysia are wondering if this and many other new KIA models will make their way to Malaysian KIA showrooms to compete head on with shiny new Chinese made vehicles coming in strong month after month.
With a ‘strong’ team behind KIA Malaysia NSE (pictured below), will KIA headquarters in Korea be ‘tickled’ enough to have some of their Red Dot winning vehicles in Malaysian showrooms? Time will tell.
Meanwhile, in the months before, there was no official announcement from the former local KIA distributor, Bermaz Auto on the KIA model lineup expansion in Malaysia due to CKD issues and did you know that the previous generation Seltos was available in Malaysia for a very very limited time with Naza KIA and in very very limited numbers and eventually discontinued.
The first generation Seltos was officially launched in Malaysia in January 2021 but was discontinued due to a transition of distributorship from Naza Kia Malaysia to Bermaz Auto which happened in April 2021.
Key Details about the New Seltos:
Generation Leap: This is the second-generation Seltos, not just a facelift, with major design changes.
Bigger & Bolder: It’s larger in all dimensions, adopting Kia’s signature bold styling seen in models like the Telluride.
Tech-Forward: Expect features like over-the-air updates, an AI assistant, and advanced driver-assist systems.
Dimensions: 4,430 mm (L) × 1,830 mm (W) × 1,600 mm (H); wheelbase 2,690 mm — enabling a spacious cabin.
Front design: Wider grille with Kia’s star map lighting signature and dynamic welcome light sequence; flush door handles for enhanced aerodynamics and visual sophistication.
Side design: Diagonal character lines, a floating roofline and strong shoulder contours create a dynamic silhouette that conveys forward motion even when stationary. Contrasting cladding and satin silver color accents emphasize durability and refinement.
Rear design: Vertical tail lamps extend across the tailgate to emphasize width and stability.
Trims: X-Line, with its dark gun metal finishes and reinforced lower garnishes, projects rugged capability, while GT-Line delivers a sportier aesthetic with sleek body-colored accents.
At the world premiere, KIA unveiled three standout colors which are Iceberg Green, Gravity Gray and a bold matte Magma Red, showcasing a palette that ranges from modern sophistication to strong, expressive hues.
What This Means for Malaysia
Given the Seltos’ popularity in some South East Asia markets and KIA’s focus on developing regions, Malaysia should be a key market for a new KIA offensive.
