Kia’s first model for India – the Seltos – completed one year of existence in the market in August this year. And it has been brilliantly received. To celebrate the occasion, the company has introduced the Seltos Anniversary Edition. Based on the HTX trim level, it is available with three engine-transmission combinations – 1.5 petrol-MT, 1.5 petrol-IVT and 1.5 diesel-MT. Their prices, in the same order, are Rs 13.75 lakh, Rs 14.75 lakh and Rs 14.85 lakh.

Now, compared to the donor variants, the Anniversary Edition ones cost Rs 41,000 more. So, what do you get for that extra amount? In terms of appearance, the newcomer brings 17-inch blacked-out alloy wheels, new skid plates (front and rear), orange inserts on fog lamp housings, rear bumper, side skirts (also get ‘Seltos’ lettering) and wheels, and a ‘1^st Anniversary Edition’ badge on the tailgate. The revised bumpers have also increased the length of the Seltos by 60mm. Indoors, the all-black theme comprises of black inserts on the dashboard, doors and honeycomb-patterned faux leather seats.

As for the list of features, it is almost identical to the HTX trim. However, the Anniversary Edition comes with a Smart Key using which one can remotely start the engine. The company is offering the celebratory version in three dual-tone shades – black roof with white, silver or grey body colours. You can also get the limited-edition SUV in black colour only.

Predictably, there are no mechanical changes to report. The 1.5-litre petrol produces 113bhp/144Nm, whereas the 1.5-litre diesel pumps out 113bhp/250Nm. With the Seltos Anniversary Edition, both engines are available with a 6-speed manual transmission. If you want a two-pedal setup, you’ll have to settle for the petrol engine mated to an IVT.

No matter how you look at it, the Seltos Anniversary Edition also comes with a whiff of exclusivity. Only 6,000 units will be produced. The Seltos remains a deadly rival to the Hyundai Creta, Nissan Kicks, MG Hector and the Tata Harrier.