The sub-compact SUV segment currently has so many models that are eagerly competing to fulfill the promise of providing an ample amount of car for an awesome price! The Seltos began to stake its family-friendly and eco-conscious claim here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis in 2019, with a name inspired by the ancient Greek gods and smack dab in the middle of the segment. Thanks to its true colors and real diversity, modern design, and ideal stance on the road, it stands out smartly against the competition.
Here are a few of the characteristics that see the Seltos at the top of drivers’ lists who are on the hunt for a car that embraces the future while “checking all the right boxes” in the present.
Boldness Beyond Ordinary: The Seltos’ Likable Look
The Seltos now rides on the same platform as the Hyundai Kona and Kia Soul but possesses a sharper and eye-catching sense of styling up front. This year’s model offers a resized grille, along with a modern velvet-rope evoking refreshed lighting system. The wider Tiger-Nose grill gives the 2024 Seltos a front end that makes a memorable statement, and stance with noticeably much more width. The rear lighting now sees a refresh with a light bar connecting both tail-lights, which provides a look that makes you feel like you just ditched a smartphone with a shoddy camera!
Amplified Power & Fresh Transmission:
One criticism that was frequently dished out for the outgoing Seltos is that there was a very noticeable lack of power off the line. There is now a 1.6-liter turbo GDI 4-cylinder engine that offers 195 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, boasting a sizable 20 horsepower increase. There's also a brand-new HP automatic transmission, taking over eagerly on shifting duty for the outgoing 7-speed automatic. The Seltos currently holds its own just fine with a robust acceleration quality against rivals such as the Toyota Corolla Cross, the Honda HR-V, and Subaru Crosstrek.
The Numbers that Matter: Delving into MPG Metrics
Even with a boost in power, the 2024 Seltos’ fuel economy is still above par. As inflation regrettably ticked upward again this July, drivers are still very concerned with getting the absolute most value out of every single dollar. The 1.6-liter is only available with all-wheel drive, and the EPA estimated number is 27 mpg while eagerly hitting the open highway. The city figure remains at 25 mpg, and the 2.0-liter engine with the FWD combination adds the most economical 29 mpg combined.
Innovate & Navigate: The Modern Explorer’s Blend
When you notice the dual 10.3-inch digital displays at first glance of the new Seltos, it begins to feel like much more than an under $30,000 model! Directly below the touchscreen there is a shelf that is ergonomically designed to keep your hands steady while tapping and selecting on the very large screen. There is an optional Bose premium eight-speaker stereo system with an external amp and subwoofer, while the S trim and up provides enhanced and embedded smartphone connectivity. One of the coolest advents of modern technology is the available Digital Key 2 Touch, which allows you to share access to your Seltos over text to your friends and family’s smart devices.
Enjoying a Vast & Versatile Cabin:
Immediately after you enter the Seltos, it feels more like a downsized Telluride than a confining sub-compact. Road noise is kept to a minimum with insulation, and the addition of acoustic front glass last year does wonders for maintaining an ideally quiet cabin. Upper-end options such as a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob along with an optional panoramic sunroof add a nice element of much-needed extra space. Top trim levels offer the 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support, ventilation, and extra-comfy heating functions for chilly Missouri mornings!
