2020 Kia KX3/Seltos launched in China

The Kia Seltos crossover/SUV exists in three versions with varying dimensions, cabins and engines. One of these targets India, another one South Korea, USA and some other markets, and the third one is being sold in China as the Kia KX3. It is moving into next generation now.

The original KX3 came out four years ago and was marketed as the main rival of the Hyundai Creta. However, with an allegedly lackluster body and cabin design, it never became particularly popular. The second-gen KX3 will attempt to fix this by being based on its international counterpart – thus cutting R&D costs, among other things.

The new 2020 Kia KX3 (SP2c) is virtually identical to the latest Seltos, save for a few minor details. Both have 2,630 mm (8.63 ft.) of wheelbase, but the Chinese variant has a 30mm (1.2”) shorter body (total 4,345 mm / 14.26 ft.).

In turn, the interior finish draws inspiration from the Indian model. The multimedia and dashboard displays are combined in a single unit, and the equipment list includes an engine start/stop system, adaptive cruise control, sunroof, imitation leather trim, and climate control.

Regardless of your trim and tech choices, the 2020 Kia KX3 (SP2c) will always ship with the same 1.5-liter, 115-hp / 86-kW naturally aspirated engine as its Indian sibling. The transmission can be manual or variable, but don’t go looking for AWD.