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The Kia Seltos has remained a favorite in the small SUV category since its debut in 2021, thanks to a successful combination of practicality, comfort, and value. In 2024, updates have made the Seltos even better, allowing it to outperform all competitors.
In addition to the updated design inside and out, the 2024 model features new 10.25-inch displays and a rugged-looking X-Line appearance. Particularly delightful is the power boost in the available turbocharged engine and the replacement of the old dual-clutch automatic transmission with a smoother eight-speed automatic transmission.
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What hasn’t changed is the quality interior finishing, relatively spacious cabin and cargo area, and convenient features that are not always found in competitors. All this combines to create a winning formula that distinguishes the Seltos among an increasingly crowded field of small SUVs.
2024 Kia Seltos Advantages
- 1. Increased Power
Small SUVs aren’t typically known for brisk acceleration. However, the Seltos stands out as a pleasant exception thanks to its optional 1.6-liter turbocharged engine, which has been enhanced by 20 horsepower in 2024. With 195 horsepower, the Seltos effortlessly handles merging and overtaking without undue drama; the SX trim accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h faster than any of its competitors.
- 2. Improved Transmission
One of the most significant improvements engineers made to the 2024 Seltos is the replacement of the old dual-clutch automatic transmission with a more conventional eight-speed automatic. The jerky operation of the old transmission is gone, resulting in much smoother and more enjoyable driving with quick and precise shifts that make the most of the turbo engine's power.
- 3. Comfortable for Long Drives
The handling and steering responsiveness of the Seltos are impressive for its class, offering a firm but still comfortable ride, as well as controlled body movements with some body roll in turns. But what truly stands out in the Kia Seltos is the cabin quietness at speed.
- 4. Quality Interior
The seats and interior trim of high-quality faux leather give the interior a premium feeling, and the new available touchscreen and instrument panel displays at 10.25 inches are bright and easy to use. The interior is spacious for a small SUV, although individuals over 1.8 meters tall may find legroom in the rear seats somewhat limited. The cargo space also shifts perceptions for its class — second only to the Volkswagen Taos at 493 liters.
- 5. Additional Features
The SX Seltos crossover is equipped with some features not commonly found in this category, including an automatic hands-free rear door and front seats that are not only heated but also ventilated. These minor details are welcomed and add a sense of luxury to the SUV.
2024 Kia Seltos Disadvantages
- 1. Fuel Economy
One drawback of the lively acceleration of the Seltos SX is its disappointing fuel economy. The turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine shows just 10.6/11.5/11.1 liters per 100 km for city/highway/combined cycles according to EPA estimates, trailing all its competitors. Lower trims with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a CVT show slightly better results, with an EPA rating of up to 7.6 liters per 100 km with front-wheel drive.
- 2. Equipment
While the Kia Seltos SX has some features not always found in competitors, it lacks other expected features. A heated steering wheel and multi-zone climate control are not available. And while Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard, both require a wired connection, whereas competitors have moved on to wireless technologies.
- 3. High Price for Quality
In a price-sensitive category, the Seltos SX is about $2,500 more expensive than other models. Although its features and sleek appearance justify this premium, it's worth noting that a price tag of $32,000 pushes it into the category of larger crossovers.
