The stylish blue swath on the dash, blue stitching on the console and armrests, and black finish on the doors and dash evoke a comfortable and inviting atmosphere that shows no signs of feeling dated in the least. Heated cushions and a leather-wrapped steering wheel offer further amenities, and technology is accessed via the 8” touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. Safety for every passenger on board is enhanced with forward collision warning with auto brake, lane keep assist, rear cross-path detection system, and blind-spot warning.
The 2.0-liter engine makes 146 horsepower, and the 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine offers up 175 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission, this engine is a great example of just how invigorating and fun a smaller model can be while navigating crowded roads. In the console there is a drive mode knob that provides control of throttle sensitivity and steering heft to the driver's optimal preference. EPA fuel ratings are at 25/30 MPG city/highway, and the Seltos also possesses very capable off-road chops.
This is probably the most budget-minded SUV out there with a locking center differential, as well as hill descent control to assure the speed is ideal on steep inclines. Hill start assist is available to keep the vehicle from moving while the brake is lifted to throttle, a useful feature when you're in a hurry to go, and may have happened to park on a steep incline. Elegant style and what is most likely the highest level of off-road capability for the price round out this crossover that is based on the same platform as the Hyundai Kona.
Taller ride height, a spacious cabin, and the option to upgrade to a larger 10.3-inch touchscreen are other reasons why so many customers here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis have decided to make the Seltos their own after a test drive. The staff at Car and Driver claimed that the SX trim model is the best buy, with the addition of All-Wheel-Drive for the constantly-changing Missouri climate. Fractal-textured speaker grilles are just one way that the optional 8-speaker Bose audio system provides epic-sounding tunes for the ride, and we stand firmly behind our 10-year or 100,000-mile powertrain coverage on our models!
