Since Kia’s vehicles landed in the United States market in 1992, the brand has become well known as the visionaries behind some of the most well-respected family vehicles. From the fun-loving Soul to the sweet-spot sedan, the Optima, Kia has created a range of vehicles that fit a huge range of budgets and lifestyles. The introduction of the 2021 Kia Seltos marks a new class of subcompact Kia SUVs. This brand-new model in the Kia lineup is intelligently designed to combine elements of luxury, comfort, utility, safety, and family-friendliness, while being an all-around fun vehicle to drive, no matter where the road takes you.
Five different trim levels make it easy to choose an option that suits your lifestyle, while the two engine options offer plenty of horsepower without putting too much stress on your wallet. For those who are looking for a subcompact SUV that meets all of the expectations of comfort, while still providing a budget-friendly vehicle that can be driven anywhere and everywhere, the brand new Kia Seltos promises to be an enticing option for those who want to go above and beyond the standard.
Engineered to Move You
Two engines will be available in the Kia Seltos. For most models, the standard engine will be a 2.0L Dual Overhead Camshaft, 16-valve inline four-cylinder engine. These engines will offer 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. Both engines will be paired with Intelligent Variable Transmission.
For the S Turbo and SX Turbo trim packages, the “Turbo” will refer to a 1.6L DOHC, 16-valve inline four-cylinder engine with a turbocharger. This engine will offer a sportier portion of power, with 175 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque.
While the S trim will be front-wheel drive, all other trims will be equipped with Dynamax All-Wheel Drive. This system will also feature a driver-selected Lock Mode, which increases low-speed traction to both front and back during challenging road conditions.
Current projections indicate a fuel economy of 29 MPG in the city, 34 MPG on the highway, and 31 MPG combined, making the newest addition to the Kia family not only fun to drive but easy on your budget, as well.
Comfort and Styling
The interior of the 2021 Kia Seltos is designed for the utmost comfort of the driver and passengers with two spacious rows of seating. Soft-touch seats in the front and back, with ample head, shoulder, and legroom make the Seltos an easy choice for long road trips. The spacious rear cargo space actually hides a lower level hidden cargo bin, and there’s plenty of small storage spaces throughout the cabin. The rear seat offers a 60/40 split for larger cargo, as well.
Of course, each trim comes packed with comfort and convenience features that meet the needs of a variety of drivers.
The LX model starts at an MSRP of $21,990, and includes plenty of features to make any commute fun. An 8-inch touch screen display controls most connectivity features and provides a rear camera view when in reverse. The entertainment system offers compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to integrate communication and entertainment options as well.
The front-wheel drive S model also starts at $21,990, though all-wheel drive will be available as an option. This trim includes LED running lights, taillights, and turn signals. The addition of roof rails will distinguish the exterior. Inside, drivers will enjoy Sofino and cloth seats, and for the exterior, they’ll get heated mirrors. A leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob add to the comfort of driving, with the convenience of remote keyless entry.
The EX trim adds further luxury to the Seltos. Starting at an MSRP of $25,290, this trim includes some seriously convenient features, such as a wireless phone charger, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver’s east. A power sunroof adds a touch of fresh air and sunshine to any drive. The Smart Key feature allows for a push-button start or remote start from the key fob. Rear seat passengers will enjoy their own USB port, and the addition of automatic temperature control ensures everyone is comfortable for the duration of the trip.
The S Turbo and SX Turbo enjoy more than just an upgraded engine––the bump in comfort is also abundant. The S Turbo starts at an MSRP of $25,490. The entertainment features include AM/FM radio, MP3 playback, as well as Bluetooth connectivity for phone and music features. Voice recognition also assists in staying connected while on the road. The SX Turbo, starts at an MSRP of $27,890 and has an even further upgraded entertainment center. This includes a 10.25-inch touch screen with remote connectivity, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Bose premium audio system with a sound connected mood lamp. It also includes heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and a four-way adjustable passenger seat.
Safety for All
As a manufacturer of family-oriented vehicles, Kia has always taken safety seriously. The 2021 Seltos promises to have all the cutting-edge safety advantages that all drivers value.
From all angles, the Seltos is engineered to avoid collisions. Radars in the front of the vehicle will be able to detect any possible collisions and apply the brakes as necessary. The sensor can also detect objects in blind spots while adding brakes to the opposite front wheel to prevent lane changes. Rear bumper sensors will detect objects that might be in the path when in reverse, as well, providing warnings and braking as necessary to avoid a rear collision.
Safe Exit Assist technology will implement rear sensors to alert passengers who might attempt to exit the vehicle. These sensors will provide a warning when a vehicle is approaching, ensuring they remain inside until the coast is clear.
Other safety technology features include driver attention and lane departure warnings, which give drivers greater control over possible collisions. Features such as hill start assist control and downhill brake control ensure a smooth, safe ride, no matter how wild the roads get. Tire pressure monitoring helps mitigate an unexpected flat. Smart Cruise Control ensures a safe distance is kept between vehicles, even when cruise control is activated. Altogether, the Kia Drive Wise technology is designed to keep drivers alert, cars on the road, and all passengers safely protected between destinations.
The 2021 Kia Seltos
Though subcompact SUVs are in no short supply, the 2021 Kia Seltos promises to offer something the market has yet to explore––a vehicle that is as fun as it is functional. With turbocharged engine options and a modest fuel economy, this vehicle manages to balance wants with needs in one charming vehicle. Additional comfort features, including soft seats, extra cargo space, and reclining rear seats make this a vehicle that friends and family will automatically vote as a top pick for road trips.
Plenty of safety features mean that those road trips will be accompanied by a sense of well-being, though, such features as lane keep assist and collision mitigation will be appreciated anytime and anywhere. After all, protecting human cargo is number one though having plenty of cargo room is another thing the Seltos seems eager to offer. While details are continuing to emerge, it is clear that the 2021 Kia Seltos plans to take on the subcompact SUV market by storm, leaving little to be desired, and plenty to be appreciated.
