Kia Seltos Turbo Petrol iMT Real-World Mileage: Truth Revealed

Are you considering the Kia Seltos turbo petrol iMT?

I examined its real-world mileage to help you understand what kind of fuel efficiency to expect.

Beyond the official figures, factors like your driving style and car maintenance play a big role in the mileage you’ll actually achieve.

Key takeaways

• The Kia Seltos Turbo Petrol iMT offers a balance of performance and fuel efficiency.
• Real-world mileage of the Seltos Turbo Petrol iMT can vary depending on driving habits and conditions.
• City mileage typically ranges from 9-12 kmpl, while highway mileage can stretch to 16-17 kmpl.
• Factors like driving style, traffic, and vehicle maintenance significantly impact fuel economy.

The Kia Seltos turbo petrol iMT delivers real-world mileage of approximately 9-12 kmpl in city driving and 16-17 kmpl on highways. These figures can vary depending on driving habits, traffic conditions, and vehicle maintenance.

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Kia Seltos Turbo Petrol iMT Real-World Mileage

Kia also offers the Seltos with a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter petrol engine paired with a traditional manual transmission. Let’s see how their mileage compares:

Engine	City Mileage (kmpl)	Highway Mileage (kmpl)
1.4L Turbo Petrol iMT	9-12 (approx.)	16-17 (approx.)
1.5L Petrol MT	14-18 (claimed)	20-25 (claimed)

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What is iMT?

Before we explore the mileage figures, let’s understand Intelligent Manual Transmission (IMT).

Essentially, it’s a clutchless manual transmission.

There’s no clutch pedal, and the system automatically handles clutch operation for smooth gear shifts.

This offers the convenience of an automatic with the enhanced control of a manual gearbox.

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Kia Seltos Turbo Petrol iMT Engine Specifications

At the heart of the Kia Seltos Turbo Petrol iMT lies a potent 1.4-liter GDI turbocharged petrol engine. This powerplant delivers the following:

• Engine Type: 1.4-litre T-GDi (Turbocharged Gasoline Direct Injection) 4-cylinder petrol engine. This indicates its capacity, advanced technology with turbocharging, and fuel delivery method.
• Displacement: 1353 cc (cubic centimeters), referring to the total swept volume of all the engine’s cylinders.
• Maximum Power: 140 PS (138 bhp) at 6000 rpm. This signifies the peak power output the engine can produce.
• Maximum Torque: 242 Nm between 1500-3200 rpm. Torque is a rotational force, and this figure highlights the engine’s pulling power, especially useful at lower speeds.
• Valvetrain: DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft) with 16 valves (4 valves per cylinder). This configuration allows for precise control of intake and exhaust timing, promoting efficiency and power.
• Fuel Injection: Direct Injection. This system delivers fuel directly into the combustion chamber, enhancing precision and fuel burn compared to older port injection systems.
• Turbocharger: The turbocharger forces additional air into the engine, allowing it to burn more fuel and generate increased power output from a smaller engine size.
• Compression Ratio: 10:1. A higher compression ratio can potentially improve engine efficiency but also requires higher-octane fuel.
• Emission Standard: BS6 Phase 2 compliant, ensuring the engine meets stringent emission regulations.

Key Insights & Additional Considerations:

• Power Delivery: The Kia Seltos Turbo Petrol iMT’s engine delivers its peak torque over a broad range (1500-3200 rpm). This translates to strong pulling power and responsiveness in everyday driving scenarios without needing to rev the engine excessively.
• Efficiency vs. Performance: The turbocharged engine’s design strikes a balance between providing satisfying performance and reasonable fuel efficiency.
• Fuel Requirements: It’s recommended to use higher-octane petrol (91 octane or above) in turbocharged engines to avoid issues like engine knocking and maximize performance.

Also See: Kia EV9 Launch Date in India: Coming Soon?

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Factors affecting real-world mileage

While the numbers above give us a good picture, it’s essential to understand the factors that can influence your Kia Seltos Turbo Petrol iMT’s fuel efficiency:

• Driving style: Aggressive acceleration and hard braking will take a toll on mileage. A smoother, more measured driving style yields better results.
• Traffic conditions: Stop-and-go traffic in cities inevitably decreases fuel efficiency compared to steady highway cruising.
• Road conditions: Hilly terrain puts more strain on the engine, impacting mileage compared to flat roads.
• Weather conditions: Extreme heat or cold can affect engine performance and fuel consumption.
• Vehicle weight: Carrying heavy loads or multiple passengers will slightly reduce mileage.
• Tyre pressure: Underinflated tyres increase rolling resistance, negatively impacting fuel economy.
• Maintenance condition: A well-maintained Seltos with regular servicing will operate more efficiently.

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Driving Tips for Better Mileage with Kia Seltos Turbo Petrol iMT

Here’s how you can potentially extract the most out of each drop of fuel in your Kia Seltos Turbo Petrol iMT:

1. Smooth Acceleration and Braking:
   • Avoid Jackrabbit Starts: Rapid acceleration from a standstill consumes significantly more fuel. Accelerate gently and progressively.
   • Anticipate Stops: Braking harshly wastes the energy you used to get up to speed. Coast to a stop whenever possible and brake smoothly.
   • Speed Consistency: Studies indicate that frequent fluctuations in speed can reduce fuel economy by up to 20%. Maintain a steady pace when possible.
2. Gear Shifting and RPM Management:
   • Optimal Gear Selection: iMT makes shifting easier, but the selected gear still plays a big role. Shift to a higher gear as soon as appropriate without straining the engine.
   • The ‘Sweet Spot’: Turbocharged engines typically deliver better efficiency in their mid-RPM ranges. Aim to keep the RPMs between 1500-2500 for optimal cruising on the Seltos Turbo Petrol.
   • Avoid Lugging the Engine: Don’t upshift too early and cause the engine to ‘lug’ under load at low RPMs. This puts extra stress on the engine and reduces efficiency.

1. Strategic Use of Air Conditioning:
   • Minimize AC at Low Speeds: At city speeds, the AC puts a significant load on the engine. Roll down the windows when possible.
   • Park Strategically: Avoid parking in direct sunlight in hot weather to minimize the AC’s work when you return.
   • Pre-cool: Ventilate the car by opening windows briefly before starting your journey and turning on the AC.
2. Minimizing Load and Resistance:
   • Travel Light: Remove unnecessary weight from the car. Excess weight forces the engine to work harder.
   • Rooftop Carriers: If you don’t use them frequently, remove rooftop carriers or cargo boxes to improve aerodynamics.
   • Windows Up at Highway Speeds: Open windows at high speeds severely increase drag, lowering fuel efficiency.
3. Tire Pressure and Alignment:
   • Correct Inflation: Check your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, reducing mileage by up to 5%. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended pressure.
   • Wheel Alignment: Improper wheel alignment can cause tires to wear unevenly and even subtly resist your intended direction of travel. Ensure regular wheel alignment checks.

Additional Considerations:

• Combine Short Trips: Multiple short trips with cold starts are less efficient. Try grouping your errands together.
• Use High-Quality Fuel: Stick to reputed fuel stations, and use the recommended octane fuel for your Seltos Turbo Petrol iMT.
• Traffic Choice: If possible, choose routes with less stop-and-go traffic during peak hours for better mileage.

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Maintenance Tips for Kia Seltos Turbo Petrol iMT

While regular servicing is crucial, here are some additional maintenance tips to support the fuel efficiency of your Seltos Turbo Petrol iMT:

1. Adhering to the Scheduled Maintenance:
   • Owner’s Manual Supremacy: Your Kia Seltos owner’s manual contains the specific maintenance schedule tailored for your vehicle. Follow it diligently.
   • Typical Intervals: Most carmakers, including Kia, recommend oil changes every 10,000 km or 1 year (whichever comes first) on modern cars. However, more frequent intervals may be needed for spark plugs, air filters, and other fluids, depending on driving conditions.
   • Authorized Service Centers: Opt for Kia authorized service centers for their expertise and genuine parts for your vehicle.
2. Engine Oil and Lubricants:
   • The Lifeblood: Engine oil lubricates, cools, and keeps vital engine parts clean.
   • Use the RIGHT Oil: Consult your owner’s manual for the recommended oil grade (viscosity) and type (synthetic, semi-synthetic, etc.). Avoid mixing different oil types.
   • Oil Filter Importance: Always change the oil filter with every oil change. It traps impurities and ensures clean oil circulation.
   • Beyond the Engine: Don’t neglect the iMT transmission fluid and other lubricants required for smooth operation. Refer to the owner’s manual for specific replacement schedules.
3. Air Filter Maintenance:
   • Engine Breathing: A clean air filter allows the engine to ‘inhale’ freely. A clogged filter restricts airflow, impacting performance and decreasing fuel efficiency by up to 10%.
   • Check and Replace: Check the air filter’s condition during routine maintenance. Replace it when visibly dirty or according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
4. Spark Plug Health:
   • Ignition is Key: Spark plugs deliver the spark that ignites the fuel-air mixture. Worn-out spark plugs lead to incomplete combustion and reduced efficiency.
   • Replacement Intervals: Spark plug life varies. Iridium-tipped spark plugs last longer, but it’s best to follow the replacement interval mentioned in your owner’s manual.
5. Additional Considerations:
   • Coolant Check: Ensure the coolant level is maintained and top up if necessary. Coolant (antifreeze) is essential for engine temperature regulation and has corrosion inhibitors.
   • Fluid Leaks: Regularly inspect underneath your Seltos for any fluid leaks (oil, coolant, etc.). Address any leaks promptly.
   • Battery Care: Check battery terminals for corrosion and ensure a good connection. Modern cars rely heavily on battery health.
   • Sensor and Electronics: In modern turbocharged vehicles, various sensors work together for optimal engine function. Authorised service centers can diagnose any sensor problems impacting performance and efficiency.

Important Note: Turbocharged engines can be slightly more sensitive to neglect than naturally aspirated counterparts. Regular maintenance is particularly crucial to ensure the longevity and optimum performance of your Kia Seltos Turbo Petrol iMT.

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FAQs

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Conclusion

The Kia Seltos Turbo Petrol iMT delivers a compelling balance of sporty performance and respectable fuel efficiency.

While real-world mileage can vary based on several factors, understanding those factors and employing thoughtful driving and maintenance practices can help you optimize your experience with this impressive SUV.