Compare Hyundai Tucson vs Kia Seltos – Compact SUVs have been gaining immense popularity in recent years, offering a perfect blend of versatility, style, and practicality.
In the competitive landscape of the automotive market, the 2023 Hyundai Tucson and the 2023 Kia Seltos stand out as two top contenders in this segment.
In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into each vehicle’s features, performance, safety, pricing, and more to help you make an informed decision when choosing between the Tucson vs Seltos.
What is the Difference Between Hyundai Tucson and Kia Seltos?
The Hyundai Tucson and the Kia Seltos are two popular compact SUVs from the same parent company, Hyundai Motor Group.
While they share some similarities, they also have notable differences that set them apart. Let’s explore the key distinctions between the Hyundai Tucson vs Kia Seltos.
Pricing
The 2023 Hyundai Tucson offers a range of trim levels, each catering to different needs and preferences. Here’s an overview of the starting prices for each trim:
- Hyundai Tucson SE: The base SE trim starts at $26,450. It comes with a generous array of standard features, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
- Hyundai Tucson SEL: The SEL model is priced starting at $28,050. It builds upon the SE trim by adding more convenience and safety features.
- Hyundai Tucson XRT: The rugged XRT trim starts at $33,275. It is designed for those who seek a more adventurous driving experience and includes off-road-inspired enhancements.
- Hyundai Tucson N Line: The sporty N Line model starts at $33,325. It offers a more aggressive design and performance-oriented features, appealing to enthusiasts.
- Hyundai Tucson Limited: The premium Limited trim, equipped with top-of-the-line features, starts at $35,710. It is perfect for those who want the utmost luxury and technology.
It’s important to note that all trim levels of the 2023 Hyundai Tucson offer the option of adding all-wheel drive (AWD) for an additional cost of $1,500. Additionally, a $1,295 destination fee applies to all Tucson models.
However, the 2023 Kia Seltos, like the Tucson, offers a variety of trims to suit different preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the starting prices for the Seltos models:
- Kia Seltos LX: The Seltos LX with all-wheel drive (AWD) has a starting price of $23,340, making it an appealing option for budget-minded buyers seeking a capable SUV.
- Kia Seltos S: The Seltos S model with front-wheel drive (FWD) starts at $23,390. It is a great entry point into the Seltos lineup with a wide range of standard features.
- Kia Seltos SX: The top-of-the-line Seltos SX, designed for those who desire premium features, starts at $28,340. It offers a wealth of advanced technology and luxury amenities.
When comparing the pricing of the 2023 Hyundai Tucson and the 2023 Kia Seltos, several factors come into play.
The base model of the Seltos is more affordable than that of the Tucson, providing an advantage for cost-conscious buyers.
However, the Tucson offers a wider range of trims, including a premium Limited option with more luxury features, which might appeal to those willing to invest in a higher-end SUV.
Additionally, both models offer the option of all-wheel drive for enhanced traction and performance in challenging road conditions, but the added cost for AWD is different for each vehicle.
It’s essential for buyers to weigh the features, specifications, and price points of each trim level to find the best fit for their needs and budget.
Read also: Hyundai Tucson vs Mazda CX 5
Fuel Economy
The 2023 Hyundai Tucson is known for its efficient engine options, providing impressive fuel economy for daily commutes and long trips.
According to EPA estimates for the 2022 model year, the non-hybrid Tucson equipped with front-wheel drive (FWD) achieves up to 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
These figures are commendable for a compact SUV, making Tucson an economical choice for drivers seeking to save on fuel costs.
It’s worth noting that the 2023 model year’s fuel economy figures for the Hyundai Tucson have not been officially tested on the 75-mph highway fuel-economy route at the time of writing.
Once the tests are conducted, the results will be updated and made available to consumers.
Similarly, the 2023 Kia Seltos also boasts competitive fuel efficiency, making it an attractive option for those prioritizing economical driving.
As per the EPA estimates, the Seltos achieves an efficient MPG rating on both city and highway driving.
The front-wheel-drive (FWD) models with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine are estimated to achieve up to 35 mpg on the highway, which is impressive for an SUV of this size.
In a real-world test on a 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, an all-wheel-drive (AWD) Seltos equipped with the turbocharged 1.6-liter engine managed to achieve 30 mpg.
It’s important to note that fuel economy can vary depending on driving habits, road conditions, and other factors.
When comparing the fuel economy of the 2023 Hyundai Tucson vs 2023 Kia Seltos, both SUVs offer respectable efficiency.
The Seltos holds an advantage with slightly higher highway MPG ratings, especially for the front-wheel-drive models with the 2.0-liter engine.
However, it’s essential to consider the overall driving experience, performance, and additional features that each vehicle provides.
Tucson may have competitive city and highway MPG ratings, and it offers hybrid and electric variants that cater to eco-conscious buyers seeking even better fuel efficiency.
Ultimately, the choice between the Hyundai Tucson vs Kia Seltos will depend on individual preferences, driving habits, and the importance placed on fuel economy versus other factors such as performance, interior space, technology features, and safety.
Dimensions
The dimensions of a vehicle play a crucial role in determining its practicality, maneuverability, and interior space. Let’s compare the dimensions of the Hyundai Tucson vs Kia Seltos to understand how they differ in size.
2023 Hyundai Tucson Dimensions:
| Length | 182.3 inches |
| Overall Width (without mirrors) | 73.4 inches |
| Height | 65.6 inches |
| Wheelbase | 108.5 inches |
| EPA Interior Volume | 146.9 cubic feet |
| Cargo Capacity (All Seats in Place) | 38.7 cubic feet |
| Maximum Cargo Capacity | 74.8 cubic feet |
| Turning Circle | 38.6 feet |
| Ground Clearance | 8.3 inches |
| Curb Weight | 3,494 pounds |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 2,000 pounds |
| Maximum Payload | 1,305 pounds |
| Gross Weight | 4,761 pounds |
Front Seat Dimensions:
| Front Head Room | 40.1 inches |
| Front Leg Room | 41.4 inches |
| Front Shoulder Room | 57.6 inches |
| Front Hip Room | 54.5 inches |
| Cloth | Standard |
| Bucket Front Seats | Standard |
| 8-way Power Driver Seat | Standard |
| Height Adjustable Driver Seat | Standard |
| Driver Seat with Power Adjustable Lumbar Support | Standard |
| 6-way Manual Passenger Seat Adjustment | Standard |
| Height Adjustable Passenger Seat | Standard |
| Multi-level Heating Driver Seat | Standard |
| Multi-level Heating Passenger Seat | Standard |
Rear Seat Dimensions:
| Rear Head Room | 39.5 inches |
| Rear Leg Room | 41.3 inches |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 56.0 inches |
| Rear Hip Room | 53.9 inches |
| Split-folding Rear Seatback | Standard |
| Reclining Rear Seats | Standard |
| Folding Center Armrest | Standard |
2023 Kia Seltos Dimensions:
| Length | 172.0 inches |
| Overall Width (without mirrors) | 70.9 inches |
| Height | 64.2 inches |
| Wheelbase | 103.5 inches |
| EPA Interior Volume | 126.2 cubic feet |
| Cargo Capacity (All Seats in Place) | 26.6 cubic feet |
| Maximum Cargo Capacity | 62.8 cubic feet |
| Turning Circle | 34.8 feet |
| Ground Clearance | 7.3 inches |
| Angle of Approach | 28.0 degrees |
| Angle of Departure | 28.0 degrees |
| Curb Weight | 2,948 pounds |
Front Seat Dimensions:
| Front Head Room | 40.0 inches |
| Front Leg Room | 41.4 inches |
| Front Shoulder Room | 55.5 inches |
| Front Hip Room | 53.5 inches |
| Leatherette/Cloth | Standard |
| Bucket Front Seats | Standard |
| 6-way Manual Driver Seat Adjustments | Standard |
| Height Adjustable Driver Seat | Standard |
| 4-way Manual Passenger Seat Adjustment | Standard |
Rear Seat Dimensions:
| Rear Head Room | 38.4 inches |
| Rear Leg Room | 38.0 inches |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 54.7 inches |
| Rear Hip Room | 52.8 inches |
| Split-folding Rear Seatback | Standard |
| Reclining Rear Seats | Standard |
| Folding Center Armrest | Standard |
In comparison, the 2023 Hyundai Tucson is notably larger than the 2023 Kia Seltos in almost all dimensions.
The Tucson offers more interior space and cargo capacity, making it a great choice for families or those who prioritize ample room for passengers and luggage.
In terms of exterior size, Tucson’s longer length and wider overall width provide a sense of presence on the road.
The Seltos, on the other hand, offers a slightly smaller footprint, making it more maneuverable and better suited for navigating through tight urban spaces or parking in crowded areas.
Both SUVs provide comfortable seating for occupants, with the Tucson offering slightly more front shoulder room, while the Seltos provides a bit more rear headroom.
Read also: Kia Sportage vs Kia Seltos
Colors Options
The choice of color is a personal and expressive aspect of car ownership. Both the 2023 Hyundai Tucson and the 2023 Kia Seltos offer an array of attractive exterior and interior color options to suit individual preferences.
– 2023 Hyundai Tucson Colors
Exterior Colors:
- Amazon Gray
- Serenity White Pearl
- Shimmering Silver
- Portofino Gray
- Deep Sea
- Phantom Black
- Intense Blue
- Calypso Red
Interior Colors:
- Gray, leatherette
- Gray, cloth
- Black, leatherette
- Black, cloth
– 2023 Kia Seltos Colors
Exterior Colors:
- Clear White/Black Cherry Roof
- Gravity Gray
- Neptune Blue
- Snow White Pearl
- Cherry Black
- Steel Gray
- Starbright Yellow/Black Cherry Roof
- Mars Orange
- Dark Ocean Blue/Clear White Roof
Interior Colors:
- Black, leatherette/cloth
Both the 2023 Hyundai Tucson and the 2023 Kia Seltos offer a diverse range of exterior color options, allowing buyers to find a color that matches their personal style and preferences.
The Tucson presents a selection of elegant and bold hues, including Amazon Gray and Calypso Red, which add character to the SUV’s appearance.
On the other hand, the Seltos offers unique and eye-catching colors like Starbright Yellow/Black Cherry Roof and Mars Orange, appealing to drivers seeking a more adventurous look.
Regarding interior colors, the Hyundai Tucson provides choices of gray and black in both leatherette and cloth upholstery.
These options offer a blend of sophistication and comfort for the cabin. Meanwhile, the Kia Seltos offers a black interior with leatherette/cloth upholstery, providing a sleek and modern ambiance.
Selecting the right color combination for a vehicle can enhance the overall driving experience and make a personal statement on the road.
Whether you prefer the understated elegance of Tucson’s exterior colors or the vibrant and daring options of the Seltos, both SUVs offer a variety of choices to cater to different tastes and lifestyles.
Safety Features
Safety is a top priority for modern vehicles, and both the 2023 Hyundai Tucson and the 2023 Kia Seltos are equipped with a suite of advanced driver-assistance features to protect occupants and prevent accidents.
The 2023 Hyundai Tucson comes with a comprehensive set of safety technologies, with many essential features included as standard across its trim levels. Key safety features include:
- Standard Automated Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection: This system uses sensors to detect potential frontal collisions and automatically applies the brakes to avoid or mitigate the impact, helping to prevent accidents with pedestrians and other vehicles.
- Standard Lane-Departure Warning with Lane-Keeping Assist: The lane-departure warning system alerts the driver if the vehicle unintentionally drifts out of its lane. Lane-keeping assist provides gentle steering inputs to help keep the vehicle within the lane.
- Available Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane-Centering Assist: The adaptive cruise control system maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead and can automatically adjust the speed to match traffic flow. The lane-centering assist feature helps keep the vehicle centered within its lane during highway driving.
The 2023 Kia Seltos also offers a range of safety features, with some advanced technologies available on higher trim levels. Key safety features include:
- Standard Automated Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection: Like the Tucson, the Seltos comes with an automated emergency braking system that detects potential front-end collisions and applies the brakes to prevent or reduce the impact.
- Standard Lane-Departure Warning with Lane-Keeping Assist: The Seltos is equipped with a lane-departure warning system that helps prevent unintentional lane departure by alerting the driver and providing steering assistance.
- Available Adaptive Cruise Control and Cyclist Detection: While the Seltos offers adaptive cruise control on higher trim levels, the cyclist detection feature helps the vehicle detect and respond to cyclists on the road, enhancing safety for vulnerable road users.
For a comprehensive understanding of each vehicle’s safety performance, it is recommended to review crash-test results from authoritative sources such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty
Warranty coverage is an important aspect of vehicle ownership, providing peace of mind and protection against unexpected repairs.
Hyundai is well-known for offering one of the most comprehensive warranties in the automotive industry. The 2023 Hyundai Tucson comes with an impressive warranty package, giving buyers added confidence in their purchase.
- Limited Warranty: The limited warranty covers the vehicle for five years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. This coverage includes repairs for defects in materials or workmanship, ensuring that the vehicle remains reliable during the initial years of ownership.
- Powertrain Warranty: The powertrain warranty provides coverage for the vehicle’s essential components, such as the engine, transmission, and drivetrain. It extends for an exceptional ten years or 100,000 miles, offering extended protection beyond the limited warranty period.
- Complimentary Maintenance: Hyundai goes a step further by providing complimentary scheduled maintenance for three years or 36,000 miles. This means that routine maintenance services, such as oil changes and tire rotations, are covered at no additional cost during the specified period.
Kia, like its sister company Hyundai, also offers a robust warranty package for its vehicles, ensuring long-term customer satisfaction and peace of mind.
- Limited Warranty: The limited warranty for the 2023 Kia Seltos covers the vehicle for five years or 60,000 miles, offering similar coverage to the Hyundai Tucson in this regard.
- Powertrain Warranty: Kia provides the same extensive powertrain warranty as Hyundai, offering ten years or 100,000 miles of coverage. This demonstrates Kia’s commitment to the durability and reliability of its vehicles.
- Complimentary Maintenance: Unlike the Hyundai Tucson, the 2023 Kia Seltos does not come with a complimentary scheduled maintenance program. As such, owners will be responsible for covering the costs of routine maintenance services during their ownership.
When comparing the warranty offerings of the 2023 Hyundai Tucson and the 2023 Kia Seltos, both SUVs stand out for their impressive powertrain warranty coverage, which is among the best in the industry.
Both Hyundai and Kia provide peace of mind to buyers with their ten-year or 100,000-mile powertrain warranties.
However, the Hyundai Tucson gains an advantage over the Kia Seltos by offering complimentary scheduled maintenance for the first three years or 36,000 miles of ownership.
This can translate into potential cost savings for routine maintenance services, making Tucson a compelling option for buyers seeking additional value.
Read also: Kia Sorento vs Hyundai Tucson
Specifications
The specifications of a vehicle provide valuable insights into its performance, power, and capabilities.
Let’s compare the specifications of the 2023 Hyundai Tucson vs 2023 Kia Seltos to understand the differences between these two compact SUVs:
– 2023 Hyundai Tucson Specs
| Base Engine Size | 2.5 L |
| Cylinders | Inline 4 |
| Base Engine Type | Gasoline |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drive Type | All-wheel drive (AWD) |
| Horsepower | 187 hp @ 6,100 rpm |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm |
| Valves | 16 |
| Cam Type | Double overhead cam (DOHC) |
| Valve Timing | Variable |
| Dual Fuel Injection | Standard |
| Max Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs. |
| Max Payload Capacity | 1,305 lbs. |
– 2023 Kia Seltos Specs
| Base Engine Size | 2.0 L |
| Cylinders | Inline 4 |
| Base Engine Type | Gasoline |
| Transmission | Continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drive Type | Front-wheel drive (FWD) |
| Horsepower | 146 hp @ 6,200 rpm |
| Torque | 132 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm |
| Valves | 16 |
| Cam Type | Double overhead cam (DOHC) |
| Valve Timing | Variable |
– Comparison: Hyundai Tucson vs Kia Seltos
Engine Performance:
The 2023 Hyundai Tucson is powered by a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine, delivering 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque.
On the other hand, the 2023 Kia Seltos features a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine, producing 146 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque.
The Hyundai Tucson offers more horsepower and torque, providing a more robust and energetic driving experience.
Transmission:
The Tucson is equipped with an 8-speed shiftable automatic transmission, which allows for smooth gear changes and optimal power delivery.
Meanwhile, the Seltos features a continuously variable-speed automatic transmission, which is designed for improved fuel efficiency but may not provide the same sporty driving feel as the 8-speed automatic.
Drive Type:
The Tucson offers all-wheel drive (AWD) as a standard feature, providing enhanced traction and stability on various road conditions.
The Seltos comes with front-wheel drive (FWD) as the standard drive type, which is suitable for urban driving and efficient daily commutes.
Towing and Payload Capacity:
The Hyundai Tucson boasts a maximum towing capacity of 2,000 lbs and a maximum payload capacity of 1,305 lbs, making it more suitable for towing trailers or carrying heavy loads compared to the Kia Seltos, which does not provide towing or payload specifications.
Ultimately, the 2023 Hyundai Tucson showcases superior engine performance, greater towing and payload capabilities, and all-wheel drive as a standard feature, making it a more powerful and versatile choice for drivers seeking a spacious and capable compact SUV.
Meanwhile, the 2023 Kia Seltos offers a fuel-efficient engine and front-wheel drive, making it a compelling option for those looking for a more budget-friendly and city-oriented SUV.
Pros and Cons
Each vehicle has its own strengths and weaknesses, and understanding the pros and cons of the 2023 Hyundai Tucson and the 2023 Kia Seltos can help potential buyers make an informed decision based on their preferences and priorities.
2023 Hyundai Tucson Pros:
- Smooth Ride Quality: The Tucson offers a comfortable and smooth ride, making it a pleasant choice for daily commuting and long-distance trips.
- Plenty of Standard Tech and Safety Features for the Money: Hyundai equips Tucson with a generous array of standard technology and safety features, providing excellent value for buyers.
- Roomy Interior and Comfortable Front Seats: The Tucson boasts a spacious interior with comfortable front seats, ensuring a pleasant driving experience for both the driver and passengers.
- Generous Warranty: Hyundai offers an impressive warranty package, including a lengthy limited warranty and a ten-year powertrain warranty, providing added confidence and peace of mind to buyers.
Cons:
- Sluggish Acceleration from the Base 2.5-liter Engine: Some buyers may find the acceleration of the base 2.5-liter engine to be less spirited compared to other options in the segment.
- Touch-Style Center Stack Controls Can Be Distracting to Use: The touch-style controls on the center stack may take some getting used to and could be distracting while driving.
- Hybrid Can’t Match Rivals on Fuel Economy: The hybrid version of the Tucson might not achieve the same fuel economy as some of its competitors, which could be a consideration for eco-conscious buyers.
2023 Kia Seltos Pros:
- Plenty of Cargo Space: The Seltos offers ample cargo space, providing practicality for hauling luggage, groceries, or other items.
- Upscale Interior Design and Materials: Kia has crafted an upscale interior for the Seltos, using high-quality materials that enhance the overall driving experience.
- Distinctive Styling and Paint Choices Add Personality: The Seltos stands out with its distinctive styling and variety of paint choices, allowing buyers to express their individuality.
Cons:
- Front Seats Aren’t Very Comfortable for Long Drives: Some drivers may find the front seats of the Seltos to be less comfortable during extended journeys.
- Less Than Athletic Handling: While the Seltos is a capable SUV, it might not deliver the same level of sporty and agile handling as some of its competitors.
Conclusion
Both the 2023 Hyundai Tucson and the 2023 Kia Seltos offer attractive features and characteristics for compact SUV buyers.
The Tucson impresses with its smooth ride, standard tech and safety features, and spacious interior, along with the added benefit of Hyundai’s comprehensive warranty.
However, potential buyers should consider its base engine’s acceleration and touch-style controls.
On the other hand, the Kia Seltos boasts ample cargo space, an upscale interior, and distinctive styling, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a stylish and functional SUV.
However, some may find the front seats less comfortable for long drives, and the handling might not be as athletic as desired.
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