History/Overview
Last year, the Kia Seltos launched the brand into the subcompact crossover space, one of Canada’s fastest-growing new-vehicle segments. While the Seltos shares much of its makeup with the Hyundai Kona, the Seltos is a bit larger thanks to a longer wheelbase.
What’s New/Key Changes From Last Year
For 2022, certain trims get a new D-shaped steering wheel; otherwise, the only change is a small price increase.
Available Trims
You can get the Seltos in LX, EX, EX Premium, and SX Turbo trims. The first three configurations use a 2.0L engine and a continuously variable transmission (CVT); SX Turbo switches to a 1.6L turbo motor and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. LX is the only one that starts out with FWD; AWD is optional there, and standard in the rest of the range.
Standard Features
LX starts with FWD, 16-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, A/C, an 8.0-inch infotainment system, six-speaker audio, smartphone integration, cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. LX AWD also gets 17-inch wheels.
EX brings LED taillights, a sunroof, heated steering wheel, remote engine start, passive keyless entry, blind spot intervention, lane keep/follow assist, and forward and rear collision alert and avoidance assist.
EX Premium gains LED headlights and fog lights, synthetic leather upholstery, power-adjustable/ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a cargo cover, 10.25-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, satellite radio, a digital gauge display, ambient lighting, and advanced collision avoidance assist.
SX Turbo adds 18-inch wheels, rain-sensing wipers, a D-shaped steering wheel, a premium stereo, adaptive cruise, highway driving assist, electric parking brake, and a head-up driver display.
Fuel Economy
Kia’s fuel consumption estimates are 8.2/7.1 L/100 km (city/highway) for Seltos LX FWD; 8.8/7.6 L/100 km in LX AWD, EX, and EX Premium; and 9.4/7.9 L/100 km for SX Turbo.
Competition
Just about every major automaker has a vehicle you can cross shop against the Seltos. They include the Honda HR-V, Hyundai Kona, Nissan Qashqai, Toyota Corolla Cross, Subaru Crosstrek, Mazda CX-30, Mitsubishi RVR, Chevrolet Trailblazer, Buick Encore GX, Fiat 500X, Ford Ecosport, and Jeep Renegade.