In the competitive world of compact SUVs, the 2024 Kia Seltos stands out as a remarkable option that combines affordability, practicality, and surprising luxury features. With its refreshed styling for 2024, efficient powertrain options, and tech-laden interior, the Seltos makes a compelling case as the perfect family vehicle that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re navigating urban streets or embarking on weekend adventures, this versatile SUV delivers performance, comfort, and value that punches well above its price point.
Impressive Powertrain Options and Performance
The 2024 Kia Seltos offers two engine choices, catering to different driving preferences while maintaining impressive efficiency:
| Engine | Power Output | Transmission | Drivetrain Options | Fuel Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0L 4-cylinder | 146 hp / 132 lb-ft torque | CVT (Intelligent Variable Transmission) | FWD or AWD | Up to 29 MPG city / 35 MPG highway |
| 1.6L Turbocharged 4-cylinder | 195 hp / 195 lb-ft torque | 8-speed automatic | Standard AWD on select trims | Up to 25 MPG city / 27 MPG highway |
The base 2.0L engine provides adequate power for everyday driving with excellent fuel efficiency, making it ideal for budget-conscious families. For those seeking more excitement, the turbocharged option delivers impressive acceleration, with Car and Driver testing showing a 0-60 mph time of just 6.9 seconds—remarkable performance for this segment.
All-wheel drive comes standard on most trims, utilizing torque-vectoring technology that enhances traction and stability in various driving conditions. This feature, typically found in more expensive vehicles, adds considerable value to the Seltos package, especially for families living in areas with challenging weather.
Spacious, Well-Designed Interior
Despite its compact exterior dimensions, the Seltos offers surprising interior space that rivals vehicles from classes above:
| Interior Specification | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Passenger Volume | 99 cubic feet |
| Cargo Volume (behind rear seats) | 26.6 cubic feet |
| Cargo Volume (rear seats folded) | 62.8 cubic feet |
| Front Headroom | 40.0 inches |
| Rear Legroom | 38.0 inches |
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
The clever packaging allows the Seltos to accommodate both passengers and cargo with ease. The rear seats feature a 60/40 split-folding design with recline adjustment, providing flexibility for different combinations of passengers and longer items. The dual-level cargo floor adds versatility, allowing owners to configure the space according to their needs while providing hidden storage compartments.
Interior materials and build quality exceed expectations for the price point. Higher trims offer SynTex leatherette upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and available heated and ventilated front seats—features normally associated with luxury vehicles.
Tech-Forward Features and Connectivity
The 2024 model year brings significant technology upgrades to the Seltos lineup:
| Technology Feature | Availability |
|---|---|
| 10.25-inch Dual Panoramic Display | Standard on most trims |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Standard |
| Bose Premium Audio (8 speakers) | Available on higher trims |
| Wireless Phone Charging | Available |
| USB Ports (front and rear) | Standard |
| Ambient Interior Lighting | Available |
| Remote Start via Key Fob/Smartphone | Available |
The standout feature is the available dual 10.25-inch displays that form a seamless panel across two-thirds of the dashboard, housing both the digital gauge cluster and the infotainment touchscreen. This setup, previously reserved for luxury vehicles, brings a premium tech experience to the affordable SUV segment.
The infotainment system is intuitive and responsive, with clear graphics and an interface that’s easy to navigate. Voice command functionality works well for controlling various vehicle functions without taking your hands off the wheel, enhancing both convenience and safety.
Comprehensive Safety Features
Kia has equipped the 2024 Seltos with an impressive array of driver assistance technologies under the Kia Drive Wise suite:
| Safety Feature | Function |
|---|---|
| Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist | Detects potential collisions with vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists |
| Lane Keeping Assist | Helps maintain lane position |
| Driver Attention Warning | Monitors for driver fatigue or inattentive driving |
| Highway Driving Assist | Semi-automated driving on highways (select trims) |
| Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance | Monitors blind spots and can intervene to prevent accidents |
| Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance | Assists when backing up |
| Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go | Maintains distance from vehicles ahead |
| Safe Exit Warning | Alerts passengers if it’s unsafe to exit the vehicle |
These features provide families with peace of mind, especially for newer drivers or those frequently traveling with children. The Highway Driving Assist system, available on higher trims, combines adaptive cruise control with lane-centering technology to provide semi-automated driving assistance on highways—a feature typically found in vehicles costing significantly more.
Trim Levels and Value Proposition
The 2024 Kia Seltos comes in five distinct trim levels, each offering impressive value:
| Trim Level | Starting MSRP | Key Features | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|
| LX | $24,390 | 8-inch touchscreen, standard AWD, automatic headlights | 2.0L |
| S | $24,290 | 10.25-inch displays, synthetic leather steering wheel, heated front seats (FWD standard) | 2.0L |
| EX | $26,990 | SynTex upholstery, power driver’s seat, sunroof, wireless phone charger | 2.0L |
| X-Line | $28,690 | Unique styling, roof rails, all-terrain-inspired design, AWD standard | 1.6L Turbo |
| SX | $29,790 | Bose audio, adaptive cruise control, Highway Driving Assist, premium features | 1.6L Turbo |
*Prices include destination charge
The sweet spot in the lineup appears to be the EX trim, which offers most of the comfort and convenience features families will appreciate without stepping up to the premium price of the turbocharged models. However, the SX trim represents excellent value for those wanting a near-luxury experience in the compact SUV segment.
Kia’s industry-leading warranty further enhances the value proposition:
- 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty
- 5-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty
- 5-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan
This warranty coverage exceeds most competitors and provides important peace of mind for budget-conscious families.
Exterior Styling and Design
The 2024 model year brings refreshed styling to the Seltos, with more modern design elements while maintaining its distinctive character:
| Design Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 172.6″ length × 70.9″ width × 64.0″ height |
| Wheelbase | 103.5 inches |
| Ground Clearance | 7.3 inches |
| Front Fascia | Updated LED headlights and daytime running lights |
| Wheel Options | 17″ to 18″ alloy wheels depending on trim |
| Color Options | 7 exterior colors including two-tone roof options |
| X-Line Exclusive | Black exterior accents, unique 18″ wheels, roof rails |
The Seltos strikes a balance between rugged capability and urban sophistication. Its slightly elevated stance and respectable ground clearance provide confidence on rough roads, while its compact footprint makes it easy to maneuver and park in tight city spaces.
The new X-Line trim adds distinctive styling elements for those wanting a more adventurous look, including unique wheels, roof rails, and black exterior accents that suggest off-road capability.
Real-World Performance and Driving Experience
In real-world driving, the Seltos delivers a balanced experience that makes it ideal for family use:
| Performance Aspect | Rating (out of 5) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ride Comfort | 4.0 | Absorbs bumps well, occasional firmness on rough roads |
| Handling | 4.2 | Composed cornering, responsive steering |
| Noise Level | 3.8 | Good isolation, some wind noise at highway speeds |
| Acceleration (2.0L) | 3.5 | Adequate for daily driving |
| Acceleration (1.6L Turbo) | 4.5 | Spirited performance, quick response |
| Braking | 4.0 | Short stopping distances, good pedal feel |
| Off-Road Capability | 3.5 | Handles light trails and poor weather conditions well |
The Seltos excels in providing a comfortable daily driving experience while maintaining enough character to make it enjoyable on winding roads. The turbo engine provides genuinely fun acceleration, while both powertrains offer predictable, confidence-inspiring handling.
The ride quality strikes a good balance between comfort and control, though it can occasionally feel firm on particularly rough roads. Road and wind noise are well-controlled for the class, creating a relatively quiet cabin at highway speeds.
Practical Considerations for Families
Beyond the specifications and features, several practical aspects make the Seltos particularly suitable for family use:
| Family-Friendly Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| High Seating Position | Better visibility for drivers, easier entry/exit |
| Numerous Storage Spaces | Convenient places for small items, toys, devices |
| Rear Door Bottle Holders | Accessible drinks for children |
| USB Ports in Rear | Keep devices charged for all passengers |
| Flat Load Floor (seats folded) | Easy loading of large items, strollers, etc. |
| Smart Power Liftgate | Hands-free access when arms are full |
| Child Seat Anchors | Clearly marked LATCH points for secure installation |
The Seltos has been designed with thoughtful touches that make daily life easier. The cabin includes multiple storage spaces for items like sunglasses, smartphones, water bottles, and other essentials. The cargo area is well-designed with a wide opening and low lift-over height, making it easy to load heavier items.
Families with young children will appreciate the clearly marked LATCH anchors for car seats, which are easily accessible and don’t require digging between seat cushions. The rear doors open wide, facilitating the installation of car seats and helping children get in and out independently.
Competitive Landscape
The 2024 Kia Seltos competes in a crowded segment, but offers several advantages over key rivals:
| Competitor | Seltos Advantage | Competitor Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Honda HR-V | More power, better tech, longer warranty | Better fuel economy, Honda reliability reputation |
| Mazda CX-30 | More cargo space, better value, more tech features | More refined interior, better handling, available higher-power engine |
| Hyundai Kona | More passenger and cargo space, better ride quality | More distinctive styling, slightly lower starting price |
| Chevrolet Trax | Better build quality, more available features, AWD option | Lower starting price |
| Toyota Corolla Cross | More engaging driving experience, better tech interface | Toyota reliability reputation, slightly better fuel economy |
When comparing value propositions, the Seltos stands out for offering more standard features at similar price points to competitors, along with its class-leading warranty coverage. The availability of the turbocharged engine option also gives it a performance edge over many rivals that only offer underpowered base engines.
Conclusion: Why the 2024 Seltos Is the Ideal Family Choice
The 2024 Kia Seltos represents an excellent balance of practicality, technology, safety, and value that makes it particularly well-suited to family needs. With its combination of interior space, efficient powertrains, comprehensive safety features, and wallet-friendly pricing, it addresses the key concerns most families have when shopping for a vehicle.
While luxury brands may offer more prestige and premium materials, and larger SUVs provide more space, the Seltos delivers the essentials in a right-sized package that won’t strain a family budget—either at purchase or throughout ownership. Its standard and available features rival those of vehicles costing thousands more, while its versatile interior adapts to the changing needs of an active family.
For budget-conscious families who don’t want to compromise on technology, safety, or comfort, the 2024 Kia Seltos deserves a place at the top of the shopping list. It proves that a practical family vehicle doesn’t have to be boring, expensive, or lacking in features—it just has to be thoughtfully designed with real families in mind.
FAQs about the 2024 Kia Seltos
What is the fuel economy of the 2024 Kia Seltos? The 2.0L engine achieves up to 29 MPG city and 35 MPG highway, while the 1.6L turbo engine returns approximately 25 MPG city and 27 MPG highway.
Does the 2024 Kia Seltos have all-wheel drive? Yes, all-wheel drive with torque vectoring is standard on most trims and available on all except the base S trim.
How much cargo space does the 2024 Kia Seltos offer? The Seltos provides 26.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and expands to 62.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
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