Used Kia Seltos: Is Manual Transmission Still the Top Choice?

The Kia Seltos has become one of the most sought-after mid-sized SUVs in India since its launch. It is known for its premium design, feature-rich interior, and multiple powertrain options that offer a variety of choices to fulfill customer requirements. The Seltos is available with both manual and automatic transmissions and boasts a substantial share of the latter compared to the country average for AT preferences. 

As per the CARS24’s 2024 used car market report, the share of automatic vehicles in the pre-owned market increased from 11.8% in 2022 to 14.7% in 2024. However, Kia Seltos sales indicate a firm bias towards manual transmission, despite the growing preference for automatics.

Manual Transmission Leads Used Kia Seltos Sales

Among used Kia Seltos models, manual transmission remains the preferred choice for buyers. Its affordability over automatics is due to better fuel efficiency and lower transmission maintenance costs, making it the dominant choice for buyers. In 2024, the sales split for second hand Kia Seltos models by transmission type was:

A look at previous years highlights a steady demand for the Seltos’ MT variants:

This indicates that more than two-thirds of pre owned Kia Seltos models sold are equipped with a manual transmission. While automatics offer ease of driving, factors such as higher resale value for manuals, lower maintenance costs, and better perceived fuel efficiency have contributed to the stronger demand for manual transmission variants in the used car market.

Declining Demand for Used Automatic Kia Seltos Since 2021

From 2021 to 2024, market trends have shown a gradual decline in the preference for used automatic Kia Seltos models:

• 2021: Automatics accounted for 35.9% of all used Kia Seltos sales.
• 2022: Automatic share dropped slightly to 35.42% of all used Kia Seltos sales.
• 2023: Automatic share declined further to 32.9% of all used Kia Seltos sales.
• 2024: Automatic sales hit their lowest at 30.8% of all used Kia Seltos sales.

The Kia Seltos comes with a variety of automatic transmission options, including IVT (CVT), torque converter, and DCT. However, the higher cost of these automatic variants, coupled with concerns over long-term maintenance, has led to a preference for manual models. While automatics remain popular in metro cities, manual Seltos models continue to dominate in semi-urban and Tier 2 cities, where buyers prioritise cost-effectiveness.

Kia Seltos Engine and Transmission Options

Since its launch, the Kia Seltos has been available with multiple engine and transmission combinations, catering to different driving preferences.

Petrol Variants

• 1.5-Litre Naturally Aspirated Petrol Engine
  • Transmission options: 6-speed Manual / 6-speed iMT (Clutchless Manual) / IVT (CVT automatic)
  • Power: 113 bhp
  • Torque: 144 Nm

• 1.4-Litre Turbo Petrol Engine (Discontinued in 2023)
  • Transmission options: 6-speed Manual / 7-speed DCT Automatic
  • Power: 138 bhp
  • Torque: 242 Nm

• 1.5-Litre Turbo Petrol Engine (Introduced in 2023, replacing 1.4-litre Turbo Petrol)
  • Transmission options: 6-speed iMT / 7-speed DCT Automatic
  • Power: 158 bhp
  • Torque: 253 Nm

Diesel Variants

• 1.5-Litre CRDi Diesel Engine
  • Transmission options: 6-speed Manual / 6-speed Torque Converter Automatic
  • Power: 114 bhp
  • Torque: 250 Nm

The manual variants of the Kia Seltos remain popular due to their cost-effectiveness and strong resale value. The iMT gearbox, available only on petrol variants, offers a clutchless manual experience, serving as a middle ground between manual and automatic transmissions. Its increasing adoption may be contributing to the gradual decline in demand for fully automatic Seltos variants. 

The DCT-equipped turbo-petrol variants, while offering an engaging driving experience, tend to have higher maintenance and running costs, making them less attractive in the used market. They’re more ideal for enthusiasts prioritising performance over frugality. 

Used Kia Seltos Market Pricing

The Kia Seltos holds a strong resale value in the used car market, making it one of the most desirable options in the used SUV segment. Its premium features, stylish design, and reliable engine options ensure it remains a sought-after choice among pre owned SUVs. Buyers appreciate the Seltos for its advanced technology, spacious cabin, and multiple transmission options, catering to both urban and highway driving needs.

Additionally, Kia’s strong aftersales network and the SUV’s robust build quality contribute to its consistent demand in the second hand car market. Whether opting for the fuel-efficient diesel or the feature-packed petrol variants, used Seltos models continue to command competitive prices, making them a reliable investment for buyers looking for a well-rounded SUV.

Average Used Selling Price

Key Takeaways

1. Manual transmission Kia Seltos models remain the dominant choice – In 2024, over 69% of used Seltos sales were manual. Buyers prefer used manual cars due to their lower purchase cost, better fuel efficiency, and reduced long-term maintenance expenses, making them ideal for budget-conscious consumers.

    

2. Automatic transmission demand has seen a slight decline – Despite their convenience, automatic variants have dropped from 35.9% in 2021 to 30.8% in 2024. Higher upfront costs, perceived higher maintenance, and lower resale value have contributed to this trend, along with the availability of Seltos’ iMT clutchless manual gearbox that fuses the best of AT and MT gearboxes.

    

3. Diesel manual variants are popular for long-distance commuters – The diesel-powered Kia Seltos with a manual gearbox continues to attract buyers prioritising fuel economy and highway performance.. Its strong torque output and better mileage make it a preferred option for those covering extensive distances regularly.

    

4. Resale value for manual variants remains stronger – Manual transmission Seltos models hold their value better over time due to higher demand in the used car market. They also have a lower starting price point in the used car market. Buyers looking for cost-effective, long-term ownership often gravitate towards these variants, ensuring steady resale prices.

    

5. Higher trims and feature-rich models enhance resale appeal – Regardless of transmission type, Seltos models equipped with advanced safety features, premium interiors, and technology-driven enhancements (such as a sunroof, connected car features, and larger infotainment systems) tend to command better resale values. These features attract a wider audience in the used car market, making them a desirable investment.

Conclusion

While the automatic Kia Seltos has maintained a presence in the used car market, manual variants continue to dominate due to their affordability, better fuel economy, and lower maintenance costs. The preference for used manual cars has increased slightly in 2024, reflecting a cost-conscious approach among buyers. 

However, in urban areas where convenience is a priority, the automatic Seltos remains a strong contender. Despite lower demand compared to manuals, used automatic Kia Seltos models still have nearly twice the adoption rate of automatics in the overall used car market.

For buyers looking for a feature-packed and efficient SUV, the manual Kia Seltos remains the top choice in the used car market. Meanwhile, those prioritising ease of driving in city traffic may find the automatic variant a worthy alternative.