The year 2021 marked the debut of the Kia Seltos, a compact SUV that immediately caught the attention of car enthusiasts and consumers alike. With its stylish design, versatile interior, and an array of innovative features, the 2021 Kia Seltos quickly carved out a prominent place for itself in the competitive compact SUV market. In this comprehensive review, we will delve into the key aspects that make the 2021 Seltos a standout choice for those seeking style, versatility, and a well-rounded driving experience.
The first thing that strikes you about the 2021 Kia Seltos is its eye-catching exterior design. Kia has done an exceptional job blending bold lines with a contemporary aesthetic, resulting in a vehicle that exudes confidence and character.
Exterior Styling
Distinctive Front Grille: The front grille, flanked by LED headlights and signature daytime running lights, gives the Seltos a distinctive and memorable appearance. It’s a face that’s hard to forget.
Sleek Profile: Moving along the sides, you’ll notice the Seltos’ sleek profile with prominent wheel arches and available two-tone roof options, which add a touch of elegance to the design.
Rugged Appeal: Despite its compact size, the Seltos manages to convey a rugged, SUV-like presence, thanks in part to its raised ground clearance and bold fender flares.
Rear Design: At the rear, LED taillights and an available skid plate further emphasize the Seltos’ sporty and adventurous character.
Interior Comfort and Space
Step inside the 2021 Kia Seltos, and you’ll find a well-thought-out interior that balances comfort, space, and functionality.
Spacious Cabin: Despite its compact SUV classification, the Seltos offers a surprisingly spacious cabin with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. It’s designed to comfortably accommodate five adults.
Quality Materials: Kia pays attention to the details, and it shows in the choice of materials used throughout the cabin. Soft-touch surfaces, premium upholstery options, and available ambient lighting create an inviting atmosphere.
Driver-Centric Layout: The driver-centric layout places controls within easy reach, enhancing the driving experience. The driver’s seat is often power-adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect position.
Cargo Versatility: The Seltos doesn’t compromise on cargo space either. The rear cargo area is generous, and the rear seats can be conveniently folded down to expand cargo capacity, making it practical for everything from grocery runs to road trips.
Performance and Handling
The 2021 Kia Seltos offers a choice of two engines, allowing buyers to tailor their driving experience to their preferences and needs.
2.0-liter Four-Cylinder Engine: The base engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that delivers 146 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), this engine provides smooth and efficient power delivery. It’s well-suited for daily commuting and city driving.
1.6-liter Turbocharged Engine: For those who crave more spirited performance, the Seltos offers an available 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This powerhouse generates 175 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The turbocharged engine delivers quick acceleration and confident passing power, making it a great choice for highway driving and enthusiasts.
Available All-Wheel Drive (AWD): The Seltos offers available all-wheel drive (AWD), enhancing traction and stability in various road conditions. Whether you’re driving on rain-soaked streets or venturing off the beaten path, the Seltos provides confidence and control.
Tech and Connectivity
Kia is known for equipping its vehicles with advanced technology, and the 2021 Seltos is no exception.
Infotainment System: The Seltos features a user-friendly infotainment system with a touchscreen display. It typically supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless integration of your smartphone. Whether you’re navigating, making calls, or streaming music, the infotainment system keeps you connected.
Explore the Exciting Features of the 2022 Kia Seltos
Driver-Assistance Features: Safety is paramount, and the Seltos often comes equipped with advanced driver-assistance features such as lane departure warning, forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. These technologies provide an extra layer of safety, helping to prevent accidents and reduce driver stress.
Available Sound System: Music enthusiasts will appreciate the available premium sound system, delivering crystal-clear audio quality for an immersive listening experience.
Wireless Charging: Many Seltos trims often include a wireless charging pad, eliminating the need for cords and keeping your smartphone charged on the go.
Trim Levels and Customization
The 2021 Kia Seltos offers various trim levels, allowing buyers to select the one that best aligns with their preferences and budget.
LX: The base LX trim typically comes well-equipped with essential features, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers.
S: The S trim often adds more advanced tech and safety features, enhancing the overall driving experience.
EX: The EX trim usually includes upscale amenities such as a power moonroof, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and more.
SX: The top-of-the-line SX trim is where you find the turbocharged engine, premium sound system, and other high-end features, making it the epitome of luxury and performance.
In conclusion, the 2021 Kia Seltos is a compelling option in the competitive compact SUV segment. It combines stylish design, spacious and comfortable interior, versatile cargo space, a choice of engines, and an array of tech features into a well-rounded package. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a weekend adventurer, or a family looking for a practical and stylish SUV, the Seltos has something to offer. Visit your nearest Kia dealership to experience the 2021 Seltos and discover how it strikes the perfect balance between style and versatility in a compact SUV.
Frequently Asked Questions
The 2021 Seltos offers two engine options: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine. The 2.0-liter engine produces 146 horsepower, while the turbocharged engine delivers 175 horsepower.
Yes, many trim levels of the 2021 Seltos come with all-wheel drive (AWD) as an option, providing enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions.
The Seltos comes equipped with a user-friendly infotainment system with a touchscreen display. It often supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration. Additionally, advanced safety features such as lane departure warning and forward collision warning are commonly included.
The 2021 Kia Seltos is a compact SUV that slots between the smaller Kia Soul and the larger Kia Sportage in Kia’s lineup. It offers a combination of style, performance, and technology in a compact package.
