How to Increase Mileage of Seltos?

In just 5 years of its launch, Kia Seltos has sold over 5.2 lakh units in India, accounting for 46.5% of Kia's total sales. Besides design and performance, Seltos' mileage of 17-20.7 kmpl is what helps it stand out. The mileage, however, is still a concern for many owners given the rising cost of fuel and traffic. Although it has great ARAI-rated figures, real-world mileage varies due to driving habits, traffic patterns, and road conditions. Explore how you can increase Seltos mileage by taking some practical measures.

Kia Seltos ARAI Mileage

Here is the mileage given by ARAI (Automotive Research Association of India) as per the different powertrains:

• 1.5L Petrol Manual: 17 kmpl
• 1.5 L Petrol IVT (CVT): 17.7 kmpl
• Turbo Petrol 1.5 L DCT: 17.9 kmpl
• Diesel 1.5 L Manual: 20.7 kmpl
• Diesel 1.5 L Automatic (6AT): 19.1 kmpl

These figures are given after testing in lab conditions. Therefore, real-world figures can often be lower as it is affected by driving conditions, especially in city traffic.

Kia Seltos City Mileage

The actual mileage of Seltos is lower in regular city or highway use than the ARAI-provided figures. Here is what Seltos owners generally report:

• 1.5L Petrol Manual: 11-12 kmpl
• 1.5L Petrol IVT (CVT): 10-11 kmpl
• Turbo Petrol DCT: 9-10 kmpl
• Diesel 1.5L Manual: 14-15 kmpl
• Diesel 1.5L Automatic: 13-14 kmpl

Factors Influencing Kia Seltos City Mileage

Here are the top factors that affect Seltos' mileage while driving in a city:

1. Constant Stop-and-Go traffic

City traffic requires constant acceleration and braking, which leads to reduced Seltos mileage.

2. Frequent Idling

Traffic jams or even signals take a significant amount of time in India to clear or change. This leads to overuse of the AC and engine, which affects the mileage.

3. Aggressive Driving

Overpowered throttle input, sudden braking, and revving all lead to increased fuel consumption.

4. Under-inflated Tyres

Under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance, the car's braking distance, and pressure on the engine.

5. Overloading

Loading the boot with heavy tools and roof carriers reduces the fuel economy.

Improving Kia Seltos City Mileage

Here is how you can improve your Seltos mileage:

1. Avoid Aggressive Acceleration and Braking

Avoid sudden braking and rapid acceleration, as it can increase fuel efficiency by up to 15-30%.

2. Use Eco Mode

Use the Eco mode while driving to limit throttle response and improve mileage.

3. Check Tyre Health

Maintain optimal tyre pressure and check the pressure every two weeks.

4. Switch off at Long Traffic

When anticipating a halt for over a minute, avoid idling and shut off the engine.

5. Maintain Speed

Keep your speed constant; if at all feasible, stay within 40 to 60 km/h in urban traffic.

6. Frequent Oil Changes

Change your engine's oil on time. For best results, use the grade recommended by the manufacturer.

Kia Seltos Highway Mileage

On highways, the Seltos fares better given the steady speed, higher gear usage, and almost no idling. The following are the figures reported by drivers:

• Petrol Manual: 14-15 kmpl
• Petrol IVT (CVT): 15-16 kmpl
• Turbo Petrol DCT: 13-14 kmpl
• Diesel Manual: 18-20 kmpl
• Diesel Automatic: 17-18 kmpl

Factors Influencing Kia Seltos Highway Mileage

Even though highway driving is more economical on fuel, some driving habits can hamper your Seltos' fuel efficiency:

1. Over-speeding

Driving over 80 kmph causes aerodynamic drag, which reduces the Seltos' mileage.

2. Improper Gear Usage

When driving on highways, cruising on a lower gear increases the RPM range and fuel usage.

3. Cruise Control Misuse

Cruise control is best when driving on flat highways. However, on hilly terrain, it can lead to oversteering, which can cause fuel wastage.

4. Inconsistent Driving

Frequent acceleration and braking during overtaking consumes more fuel than steady cruising.

5. Driving with Windows Open

Driving above 80 km/hr can increase resistance, affecting the Seltos' mileage.

6. Heavy Loading

Overloading the boot can reduce aerodynamics and increase fuel consumption.

Improving Kia Seltos Highway Mileage

Here are the practical tips to improve your Seltos mileage on the highway:

1. Speed of Driving

For the optimum mileage, drive your Kia Seltos between 70 and 80 kmph.

2. Wheel Alignment and Tyre Pressure

Maintain tyre pressure at the PSI suggested by the manufacturer, as underinflated tires and misaligned wheels reduce mileage.

3. Use of AC

Although it has a relatively lower impact, AC use on highways can reduce mileage by 0.5 to 1.5 kmpl, particularly for petrol-powered models.

4. Car Weight

Reduce additional weight in the roof box or boot.

5. Maintain the Engine

Proper fuel quality, regular oil changes, and clean air filters are all essential. 

6. Use Cruise Control Mindfully

Use the cruise control when on flat highways, but switch it off when on an incline or hilly terrain.

Conclusion

Increasing your used Kia Seltos mileage is not just about driving slowly but about driving smart. Driving habits like overspeeding and idling can adversely affect your Seltos' mileage. Whether you are cruising on the highway or traversing through the city traffic, not only will these tips help you to save money at the pump, but also reduce wear and tear on the engine.