Everything You Need to Know About the 2021 Kia Seltos

The 2021 Kia Seltos is proof that you can get new car models with both fashion and function at a reasonable price. Its exterior dimensions and price are somewhere between the compact and subcompact SUV segments. Yet, the vehicle boasts a roomier cabin. Moreover, the abundance of unique design details successfully counters any less luxurious bits used to keep the cost low. Essentially, it provides more value even beyond the extra-long warranty and features list that is common for Kia car models.

Pricing

The pricing for the different Seltos versions are as follows:

• LX (All-Wheel Drive): $23,110
• S (Front-Wheel Drive): $23,110
• S (All-Wheel Drive): $24,610
• S Turbo (All-Wheel Drive): $26,610
• EX (All-Wheel Drive): $26,410
• SX (All-Wheel Drive): $29,010

The Seltos’s EX trim offers the best value. While the SX model comes with most of the features, the EX is still well-equipped and less expensive. To note: the price of all the versions will increase if you want all-wheel drive. However, depending on how you decide to use your Seltos and the area you live, it’s not a necessary feature.

Performance, Engine, and Transmission

Kia Seltos offers two different four-cylinder engines: a 1.6 liter turbocharged that makes 175 horsepower, or a 2.0-liter that can produce 146. The power of the turbocharged is more than enough.

Both the engines have an all-wheel drive as an optional feature. The Seltos provides a smooth and firm ride and sharp handling for an SUV. It is way more composed and entertaining as compared to rivals like the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport and Jeep Compass.

Real-World MPG and Fuel Economy

According to the EPA estimates, the Seltos can deliver reasonably efficient MPG (miles per gallon) figures. It is not surprising, though, since the model has mechanicals similar to the Kona. The highway fuel economy of the front-wheel-drive models is an outstanding 34 mpg with the 2.0-liter cylinder.

Interior, Cargo, and Comfort

The 2021 Kia Seltos provides more space for both cargo and people as compared to the Kona. It has a boxy roofline that grants a lot of headroom throughout the vehicle and results in an overall airier feeling. Most small crossovers tend to feel claustrophobic, particularly for rear-seat passengers. However, that is not the case with Seltos. The power eight-way driver seat in the SX and EX models provide plenty of space and adjustability. Even the rear seats can recline back to a very comfortable angle. The rear legroom is adequate for 4-5 adults of average height.

The materials used in the cabin are refined and well-chosen enough for the car to fit-in next to the company’s excellent Telluride in a showroom. The upscale SX version has the standard ambient lighting similar to the Kia system in the Soul SUV. You can set it to change according to the music pulse. The cargo space is large enough to swallow several backpacks and suitcases.

Connectivity and Infotainment

All Kia Seltos models are equipped with an infotainment touchscreen display with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration. The 10.3-inch size is an optional feature. It offers split-screen capability and navigation, so it is possible to do things like continue viewing the directions and map while changing the radio station. Depending on the model you select, it also offers a wireless charging pad for smartphones with over three ports, a colored 7.0-inch gauge cluster display, and a head-up display. A Bose eight-speaker audio system with fractal-texture grilles is also an optional feature.

Driver-Assistance and Safety Features

Kia has provided comprehensive driver-assistance features and tech in the Seltos. However, the package is optional instead of a standard, unlike rivals like Nissan Kicks and Toyota C-HR. The main safety features of Seltos include:

• Lane-keeping assist that provides a lane-departure warning
• Rear cross-traffic alert and a blind-spot monitor
• Pedestrian detection for automated braking in case of emergencies

Maintenance and Warranty Coverage

Kia offers the best warranty in the automobile industry. The company also continues to offer the 100,000-mile or 10-year powertrain coverage on these new models. The only rival that matches its warranty coverage is Hyundai- the brand’s sister company. It offers:

• A 60,000-mile or 5-year limited warranty
• A 100,000-mile or 10-year powertrain warranty

Interior Design

Some might say that the aspect where the Kia Seltos 2021 lacks is the interior material quality. It’s different from that of compact crossovers at a similar price, as well as the slightly pricier Sportage. However, the designers have intelligently elevated certain key areas with distinctive design details and upgraded materials. For instance, the speaker grilles with a 3D geometric design, passenger grab handles with a metal-like surface, starter button, and air vents surrounded by a silver trim piece, etc. You can also get some optional upgrades such as heather-gray upholstery, and glossy black, faux leather, or bright blue dash trim.

Kia is a brand that just knows and understands SUVs. Just take a look at their all-new Telluride or the recent Soul subcompact. For 2021, it is including the rugged Seltos to the lineup. With a similar car platform as the outstanding Hyundai Kona, Seltos offers the same sharp handling. However, it pairs this feature with a roomier cabin, taller height, and more technology. From what it seems, Kia has another excellent SUV in its collection. The 2021 Kia Seltos is available at Nutley Kia now. Call 973-667-0500 to schedule your test drive appointment.

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