While most prefer larger SUVs, the compact crossover trend is still prevalent. These crossovers can appeal to those with smaller families and not as much for hauling, especially if they go for a reasonable price. However, there are downsides as many of them lack large cargo space, good engines, or even fun to drive. This is why the 2021 Kia Seltos stands out from the pack. This compact SUV offers a lot, from good performance to a cargo hold on par with the bigger models.
While Kia is known for dependable rides, they rarely shine that well with buyers. Yet the Seltos boasts terrific trims, top-notch tech, and safety features, and the turbocharged engine is a beauty for a car its size. It also offers plenty of bang for the buck in terms of cargo and hauling. These are eight features of the 2021 Seltos that prove why it should get more attention from the subcompact SUV fans and be worth its price.
8 It's Tougher Than It Looks
With NHTSA safety ratings of four stars, the Seltos is among the safer SUVs of its class. While the interiors may seem inexpensive, the chassis is firm and solid and aided by the great suspension.
Front-drive models come with a torsion beam that aids the stability, so even on rugged roads, it doesn't bounce too much. It can also stand up well in a crash with the safety tech on some trims as top-notch as any larger expensive model. With warranties up to five or even ten years, the Seltos is meant to be a long-lasting SUV against any problems.
7 It Handles Like A Dream
SUVs should handle smoothly, and thankfully the Seltos continues Kia's tradition of good handling cars. It can be firm yet easily responds to the driver without going too far. The SX Turbo version handles the best as an all-weather SWD crossover which can even go off-road a bit.
The AWD system boasts a good torque vector you don't get on most SUVs of this size. The base trims handle better on pavement but can deal with anything from a rainstorm to harsher elements and still drive well. Throw in the excellent suspension, and the Seltos is tougher than it looks to handle most driving conditions.
6 It's got Some Sweet Trims
Compact SUVs aren't exactly known for standout trims. The Seltos offers a variety of great trims to make it a must-own for SUV buffs. The LX is the "basic" one that offers the standard in tech and performance. The S adds in driver assistance while EX has remote start and blind-spot collision warnings.
The SX Turbo is the top trim, offering the best in tech, the spiffy engine, and a killer sound system. Not to mention each trim is quite stylish, and the wide range of options shows how the Seltos has more bang for the buck than its price.
5 The Terrific Tech
You don't expect a compact SUV to be high in the tech department, but thankfully the Seltos bucks that trend. While the standard tech is good, it's worth upgrading to the 10.3-inch infotainment screen that handles well without being distracting.
Besides Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, it has a "split-screen" to let you watch the map and directions as you change the radio. Depending on the trim, there's a trio of USB ports, a head-up display, a wireless smartphone charging pad, a specific holder for your phone, and a 7.0-inch color display in the gauge cluster. It may cost a bit more to get that, but worth it for some great tech to aid the driving.
4 The Turbocharge Is Great
The base engine for the Seltos is good but not great, a 2.0-liter that makes 146 horsepower. However, the CVT turbocharged 1.6-liter pumps out 175 hp that feels even higher.
This is mated to a seven-speed automatic and quite reliable. This means zero to 60 in 6.6 seconds which feels great on the road. While this turbocharge is a bit more expensive, it offers more kick than most SUVs of this size to help the Seltos be a winner.
3 Terrific Seat Adjustment
It's easy to dismiss the Seltos' seating for cheaper materials, but they don't feel that way. The seats are quite comfortable, and the reclining handles well. Better is the nicely adjustable driver's seat which can be adjusted ten ways manually or automatic.
That allows good legroom for most driver sizes and aids the performance on the road. As many use SUVs for long family trips, good seating is a must and the Seltos offers more than other cars of its class.
2 It's Much Roomier Than Expected
Mention "compact SUV," and most think of a cramped interior squeezing folks in. This is why the Seltos is such a pleasant surprise. It's a whopping 62.8 inches of free space once the rear row is lowered, allowing plenty of room to pack in bags, luggage, and even a bicycle or stroller.
That's much better than most SUVs of its class and plenty of legroom for customers. It may appear the typical compact SUV yet the Seltos has cargo space to rival the bigger vehicles on the market.
1 A Great Design
Most smaller SUVs are mostly the same look, a bit boxy and nothing too flashy. It's why the Seltos catches the eye so well. It avoids the trap of looking like a hatchback but a true SUV and some nice styling to it. It's not flashy, yet it still works nicely, the curves working well with the frame, and no obtrusive attachments to distract drivers.
The grille pattern and intricate headlights make it look more upscale and yet not too outrageous. While most SUVs of its class are interchangeable, the good style helps the Seltos stand out.
Sources: caranddriver.com, motortrend.com, autowise.com, edmunds.com