EX 4dr All-Wheel Drive
2022 Kia Seltos

With a name that evokes a prescription drug or a mint candy from Holland, the 2022 Kia Seltos doesn't exactly sound like a new SUV to boast about to your friends. It should be, though, as it's yet another well-executed entry from Kia that's equally sensible and stylish. As a member of the growing midcompact SUV segment, and one of the best available, it slots in between smaller and cheaper subcompact models, and bigger, pricier compact ones. You'd think that might slice the pie too thin, but with smart interior packaging, the Seltos should be a just-right size for many at a price tag that stays well below $30,000 and can even be had reasonably equipped at $25,000. Now, there are various cheap pieces in the interior that betray its budget price, but an abundance of interesting design elements help draw the eye away from them. The base engine is also a bit of a sad trombone, but the available turbo delivers acceleration that rivals compact SUVs that can cost $10,000 more. Basically, there's very little to complain about … except that name. Interior & Technology   |   Passenger & Cargo Space   |   Performance & Fuel Economy What it's like to drive   |   Pricing & Features   |   Crash Ratings & Safety Features What's new for 2022? The LX now includes the same driver-assistance tech found on every other trim. The S trim sees a massive uptick in equipment, adding the 10.25-inch touchscreen upgrade, integrated navigation, proximity key and push-button start, remote ignition, extra front and rear USB ports, and automatic climate control. Its price continues to be on par with the LX, but remains the only Seltos with all-wheel drive optional. The Seltos also gains a ubiquitous black trim version in the Nightfall Edition (it replaces the old S Turbo trim level), while the SX AWD trim gains a sport steering wheel and the option of a "Plum" interior color. Neat. Oh, and there's a new Kia badge, but that's the only visual change from last year. What are the Seltos interior and in-car technology like? If there's one area where the Seltos betrays its relatively low price, it's the quality of its interior materials. There's far more hard plastic throughout than you'll find in the slightly pricier Kia Sportage plus any number of other compact crossovers. The door sills, dash tops, center console and cargo area are the most noticeable examples. However, Kia's designers cleverly made up for its accountants' dictates by elevating several key areas with upgraded materials and distinctive design elements. The 3D geometric pattern of the speaker grilles, the metal-look passenger grab handle, the sleek silver trim piece surrounding the air vents and starter button, and optional upgrades that include handsome heather-gray upholstery and the dash trim that can be glossy black, bright blue or stitched faux leather. There's also plenty of user-friendly technology. Standard on the Seltos LX is an easy-to-use 8-inch touchscreen packing standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, while every other trim gets  is the same …
Hide Full Review