More Than Just Style: The Punchy Performance of the Seltos's 1.6L Turbo Engine

The 2026 Kia Seltos SX delivers power that backs up its bold appearance. While the Seltos attracts attention with its athletic design, the available 1.6L Turbo GDI engine provides the performance to match those sporty looks.

This turbocharged powerplant transforms the compact SUV driving experience. From confident highway merging to responsive city acceleration, the turbo engine addresses real-world driving scenarios that matter to Ontario drivers navigating everything from 401 traffic to cottage country roads.

Engine Specifications: SX Trim

The 1.6L 4-cylinder Turbo GDI engine delivers 195 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 195 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm. The 8-speed automatic transmission works with intelligent all-wheel drive to distribute power efficiently across all four wheels.

Key performance features include:

• Direct injection technology for improved fuel efficiency and power delivery
• Turbocharger that provides immediate response from low RPM
• 8-speed automatic transmission with smooth, quick shifts
• All-wheel drive system with manual locking differential for enhanced traction

Real-World Highway Performance

The turbo engine excels in highway merging situations where many compact SUVs struggle. The combination of 195 horsepower and immediate torque delivery means confident acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h, making highway passing safe and predictable.

The 8-speed automatic transmission keeps the engine in its optimal power band, ensuring responsive performance without excessive engine noise. This setup proves particularly valuable during loaded family trips or when towing light recreational equipment.

City Driving Responsiveness

In urban environments, the turbo engine provides crisp throttle response that makes city driving more engaging. The direct injection system delivers fuel precisely when needed, resulting in smooth power delivery whether accelerating from traffic lights or navigating parking lots.

The engine's low-end torque characteristics mean less waiting for power to build, creating a more connected driving experience that many naturally aspirated compact SUVs cannot match.

Transmission Integration and Drive Modes

The 8-speed automatic transmission complements the turbo engine with intelligent shift programming. The transmission recognizes driving patterns and adjusts shift points accordingly, balancing performance and efficiency based on current conditions.

Drive Mode Select allows drivers to customize the powertrain's behaviour:

• Normal mode balances efficiency and performance for daily driving
• Sport mode sharpens throttle response and holds gears longer
• Smart mode adapts to driving conditions automatically

All-Weather Confidence

The SX trim's all-wheel drive system works with the turbo engine to provide traction in challenging weather conditions common throughout Ontario. The system can transfer power between wheels as needed, while the manual locking differential provides additional grip when conditions demand it.

This combination proves valuable during winter driving or when venturing onto unpaved roads, ensuring the performance advantage translates to real-world capability rather than just straight-line speed.

Fuel Efficiency Balance

Despite its performance focus, the 1.6L turbo engine maintains reasonable fuel consumption. The direct injection system and turbocharger work together to extract maximum efficiency from each drop of fuel, while the 8-speed transmission helps keep the engine operating in its most efficient range.

The result is a powertrain that provides performance when needed while remaining practical for daily commuting and longer trips.

Your Performance-Focused Seltos Awaits

The 2026 Kia Seltos SX proves that compact SUVs can deliver engaging performance without sacrificing practicality. The 1.6L turbo engine provides the power and responsiveness that makes every drive more enjoyable, while maintaining the efficiency and reliability expected from a modern SUV. Contact our sales team at Cardinal Kia in Niagara Falls to experience how this turbocharged performance can transform your daily drive.

To learn more about the 2026 Kia Seltos, visit Kia.ca