The compact crossover SUV segment seems to grow on an almost daily basis. Maybe that’s a bit of hyperbole, but it can be hard for even the “experts” to keep up with the changes and new additions. Kia’s latest subcompact SUV, the Seltos, fills a gap (or simply provides another excellent option) in a compelling crossover SUV lineup from the company that recently shook the industry when it launched the award-winning Telluride.
Squeezing in between the subcompact Soul and the compact Sportage, the subcompact Seltos is an attractively-styled crossover with a surprisingly spacious interior. Pricing also sits between the two siblings, starting at $21,900 plus fees.
Attractive Design that is “Enough”
Kia has given the Seltos a youthful, adventurous appeal. The upright stance and 7.2-inches of ground clearance hint that the crossover might be ready for some gentle off-roading. While we didn’t have the chance to take the Seltos off road, press images from Kia along with the SUV’s front and rear skid plates, black wheel arch cladding and active all-wheel-drive give credence to the Seltos being able to tackle less than ideal terrain, something few smaller compact SUVs are truly capable of.
We are fans of Kia’s new “tiger nose” grille and front and rear light treatments. Kia has proven that affordable doesn’t have to equate to boring design. But the manufacturer seems to have found a careful balance between style and gimmick or flash.
A Spacious Interior that Feels Like it Should be More Expensive
Inside, the Seltos feels bigger and more expensive than you might expect. We assume value from the brand, but the new 2021 models has surpassed expectations. The fit and finish is excellent. Kia’s choice of materials are attractive and feel substantial. The driver and front seat passenger are provided with plenty of space. Visibility is good and the seats are comfortable. Base models receive manually adjustable front seats, a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat is available.
Where the Seltos interior really stands out is in the back. The second row will work for adults, even taller adults and the standard reclining back seat is a welcome feature for longer trips.
Seltos boasts the largest rear cargo space in the subcompact SUV class. The 26.6 cubic feet available is even better than some models in the one-step-up compact SUV class. Folding down the second row yields 62.8 cubic feet.
Performance Aimed at Economy but More Than Adequate for Daily Driving Adventures
The Seltos is powered by two different engines and transmissions. LX, S and EX trims are fit with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 146 horsepower and 132 lb.-ft. of torque. Power is sent to the wheels through what Kia calls an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT).
Our review vehicle, the SX Turbo AWD, is powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that creates 175 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque. A 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) makes the gear changes. Kia gives the driver three drive mode options, Normal, Smart and Sport, which tweak the settings for the powertrain, drivetrain and steering.
An available all-wheel drive (AWD) system, which borrows technology from the award-winning Telluride, provides enhanced all-weather capabilities and driving performance. A center locking differential splits power equally between the front and rear wheels for more severe driving environments. The AWD system also uses torque vectoring to enhance stability in corners and provide more connection to the road.
Our time with turbocharged SX model was rewarding. The peppy engine and snappy dual-clutch transmission performed well in traffic and on the highway. Steering was precise, but forgiving. Braking felt confident and the suspension was comfortable but sporty enough to be satisfying. The Seltos does a noteworthy job of being a competent daily driver.
Fuel economy is rated up to 29/34 city/highway miles per gallon with the 2-liter. Turbocharged models are rated at 25/30 city/highway miles per gallon.
Useful Technology on a Budget
The base model Seltos comes with an 8.0-inch touch-screen infotainment system. Features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. Simply moving up one step to the S model adds a long list of active safety features including auto emergency braking, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, driver attention warning, electronic stability control, hill-start assist control and downhill brake control.
Our top-trim review vehicle is equipped with an upgraded 10.25-inch touch-screen system that includes navigation. Our vehicle also has an incredible sounding Bose Premium Audio with a nifty sound connected mood lamp. We’ve been fans of Kia’s exceptional infotainment for a while and the 2021 systems are better than ever. The Bose audio is loud, clear and immersive.
Pricing
The base LX model starts at $21,990 plus fees. Our top-trim SX Turbo starts at $27,890 plus fees.
At a Glance Trim Highlights:
LX
The base model is powered by the 146-hp four-cylinder paired to a CVT and standard all-wheel drive. Highlights include:
- 17-inch wheels
- Keyless entry
- Tinted rear glass
- 8-inch touchscreen
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- One USB port
S
The S trim swaps all-wheel-drive for different features at the same base price as the LX.
S highlights include:
- Foglights
- Heated mirrors
- Simulated leather upholstery
- Lane departure warning
- Lane keep assist
- Automatic high beams
S Turbo
The S Turbo includes the 1.6-liter turbo engine that is paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is standard.
Other additions include:
- 18-inch wheels
- Exterior trim color options
- Blind-spot monitors
- Rear cross-traffic alert
EX
The EX reverts includes the 146-hp engine and all-wheel drive. You also get everything found on the S trim, with these EXtras:
- Sunroof
- Leather upholstery/heated front seats
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Automatic climate control
- Front and rear USB ports and wireless device charging
SX
Seltos’ Top-trim model, the SX picks up where the EX leaves off, adding the turbocharged engine. Additional features include:
- LED headlights and foglights
- Adaptive cruise control
- 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation
- Bose premium audio