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Kia Seltos: Driving your vehicle / All Wheel Drive (AWD) system

Contents:

The All Wheel Drive (AWD) system in the Kia Seltos distributes engine power to the front and rear wheels to help provide improved traction when driving conditions require extra grip.

AWD can be useful when additional traction is needed, such as on slippery, muddy, wet, or snow-covered roads. It helps the Kia Seltos maintain more stable driving performance when road surfaces become difficult.

If the system determines that four-wheel traction is needed, the engine's driving power is automatically distributed to all four wheels. The system operates without requiring constant driver input, but safe driving habits are still essential.

LCD display for warning message

Kia Seltos AWD system warning message on LCD display

If the AWD system malfunctions, a warning message will appear on the display. Have your Kia Seltos inspected by an authorized Kia dealer as soon as possible to help prevent further damage and maintain safe operation.

Kia Seltos AWD safety warning for slippery and off-road driving

WARNING

To reduce the risk of SERIOUS INJURY or DEATH:

  • Do not drive in conditions that exceed the intended design limits of the vehicle, such as severe or challenging off-road terrain.

  • Avoid high speeds when cornering, turning, or driving on roads with reduced traction.

  • Do not make sudden steering movements, such as sharp lane changes or quick, aggressive turns.

  • The risk of rollover increases greatly if control of the Kia Seltos is lost at highway speeds.

  • Loss of control often occurs when two or more wheels leave the roadway and the driver overcorrects while trying to return to the lane.

  • If your vehicle leaves the roadway, do not steer sharply. Slow down gradually before guiding the Kia Seltos back into the travel lanes.

AWD mode ➤

For safe AWD operation ➤

Other information:

Kia Seltos SP2 (2021-2026) Owner's Manual: Children always in the rear

Children under age 13 must always ride in the rear seats and must be properly restrained to reduce the risk of injury during an accident, sudden stop, or sudden maneuver. WARNING Restraint location Never install a child or infant seat on the front passenger seat. A child seated in the front passenger position can be struck forcefully by an inflating air bag and may be seriously or fatally injured.

Kia Seltos SP2 (2021-2026) Owner's Manual: Automatic transmission operation

The automatic transmission in the Kia Seltos provides 8 forward speeds and one reverse speed. The transmission selects each gear automatically according to the shift lever position, vehicle speed, engine load, and driving conditions. NOTICE The first several shifts on a new Kia Seltos, or after the battery has been disconnected, may feel slightly abrupt.