Compare Kia Seltos vs Hyundai Kona – In the highly competitive world of compact SUVs, the 2023 Kia Seltos and the 2023 Hyundai Kona stand out as formidable contenders.
As consumers look for stylish, versatile, and feature-packed vehicles, these two SUVs have gained significant attention.
In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key aspects of each model, including pricing, dimensions, safety features, and specs of owning either the 2023 Kia Seltos or the 2023 Hyundai Kona.
So, let’s dive in and discover what sets these two SUVs apart.
What is the Difference Between Kia Seltos and Hyundai Kona?
The Kia Seltos and the Hyundai Kona are two popular compact SUVs, and while they share similarities, they also have distinct differences that set them apart. Let’s explore the key differences between the two vehicles.
Pricing
The price of a vehicle is a critical factor for potential buyers, and the 2023 Kia Seltos and the 2023 Hyundai Kona offer distinct pricing options to cater to various budgets.
– 2023 Kia Seltos Price:
The 2023 Kia Seltos presents an attractive starting price for its entry-level models. The Kia Seltos LX with AWD (All-Wheel Drive) begins at $23,340, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a budget-friendly compact SUV with enhanced traction capabilities.
Alternatively, the S FWD (Front-Wheel Drive) model starts at $23,390, providing an economical option for buyers who do not require all-wheel drive.
At the top of the lineup, the fully equipped Seltos SX starts at $28,340, offering premium features and amenities for drivers who desire a more luxurious driving experience.
2023 Hyundai Kona Price:
The 2023 Hyundai Kona is another affordable option for compact SUV enthusiasts. The base SE version with front-wheel drive starts at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $21,990.
However, it’s essential to note that this base price excludes the destination charge, which is an additional cost.
Buyers can opt for all-wheel drive across all variants, including SE, SEL, Night Edition, and Limited, at an extra cost of $1,500.
Despite the slight price increase for all-wheel drive, the Hyundai Kona remains competitive in the market for its comprehensive features and modern design.
In conclusion, the 2023 Kia Seltos and the 2023 Hyundai Kona present compelling pricing options for compact SUV seekers.
The Kia Seltos offers a variety of trim levels with different starting prices, allowing buyers to select the one that best suits their needs and budget.
On the other hand, the Hyundai Kona impresses with an affordable base price and the option to add all-wheel drive for improved handling capabilities.
Both SUVs provide excellent value for money and are well-equipped to meet the diverse preferences of today’s car buyers.
Prospective customers are encouraged to visit local dealerships and explore the different models firsthand to make an informed decision based on their requirements and preferences.
Read also: Kia Sportage vs Kia Seltos
Fuel Economy
Fuel efficiency is an essential consideration for many car buyers, and both the 2023 Kia Seltos and the 2023 Hyundai Kona offer respectable MPG figures, making them attractive options for those seeking economical driving experiences.
The EPA estimates that the 2023 Kia Seltos delivers fairly efficient fuel economy figures, particularly in highway driving conditions.
For front-wheel-drive models equipped with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, the Seltos achieves an estimated 35 mpg on the highway, providing excellent fuel efficiency for long journeys.
On a 75-mph highway fuel-economy test route, the all-wheel-drive Seltos with the turbocharged 1.6-liter engine managed to achieve a respectable 30 mpg.
These figures indicate that the Seltos strikes a balance between power and fuel efficiency, catering to a wide range of driving preferences.
While the 2023 Hyundai Kona, in the fuel-sipping mini-SUV category, the Kona’s EPA ratings are good but fall in the average range among its competitors.
However, during real-world testing, the Kona outperformed many of its rivals, showcasing its efficiency and capability.
The base model with front-wheel drive impressively achieves an EPA rating of 30 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, making it a fuel-efficient option for daily urban commutes and highway driving.
The turbocharged version, when equipped with front-wheel drive, achieves up to 29 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
However, when all-wheel drive is added, these figures decrease slightly to 27 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.
In real-world testing, the turbo all-wheel-drive Kona achieved 32 mpg in the 75-mph highway fuel-economy test, while the base four-cylinder model delivered 33 mpg.
These results demonstrate the Hyundai Kona’s ability to offer an efficient and enjoyable driving experience.
For more comprehensive information about the Kia Seltos and Hyundai Kona fuel economy, prospective buyers can refer to the official EPA’s website.
In conclusion, both the 2023 Kia Seltos and the 2023 Hyundai Kona offer commendable fuel economy figures, making them excellent choices for eco-conscious consumers.
The Seltos provides efficient performance, especially on the highway, offering comfortable long-distance travel with its impressive 35 mpg highway rating for front-wheel-drive models.
On the other hand, the Kona delivers competitive fuel efficiency in both city and highway driving conditions, and its real-world testing results outshine many of its competitors.
Potential buyers are encouraged to consider their driving habits and preferences to select the SUV that best aligns with their fuel efficiency needs.
By consulting the EPA’s official website for detailed fuel economy data, prospective customers can make well-informed decisions and find the compact SUV that suits their lifestyle.
Dimensions
The dimensions of a vehicle play a crucial role in determining its size, interior space, and overall practicality.
Let’s compare the dimensions of the 2023 Kia Seltos vs 2023 Hyundai Kona to gain insight into their respective sizes and interior capacities.
– 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 lbs. |
Front Seat Dimensions:
| Front headroom | 40.0 inches |
| Front legroom | 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 headroom | 38.4 inches |
| Rear legroom | 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 |
– 2023 Hyundai Kona Dimensions:
| Length | 165.6 inches |
| Overall width without mirrors | 70.9 inches |
| Height | 61.6 inches |
| Wheelbase | 102.4 inches |
| EPA interior volume | 113.3 cubic feet |
| Cargo capacity, all seats in place | 19.2 cubic feet |
| Maximum cargo capacity | 45.8 cubic feet |
| Turning circle | 34.8 feet |
| Ground clearance | 6.7 inches |
| Curb weight | 3,203 lbs. |
| Maximum payload | 931 lbs. |
| Gross weight | 4,134 lbs. |
| Country of final assembly | South Korea |
Front Seat Dimensions:
| Front headroom | 39.6 inches |
| Front legroom | 41.5 inches |
| Front shoulder room | 55.5 inches |
| Front hip room | 53.3 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 |
Rear Seat Dimensions:
| Rear headroom | 37.8 inches |
| Rear legroom | 35.2 inches |
| Rear shoulder room | 54.5 inches |
| Rear hip room | 52.2 inches |
| Split-folding rear seatback | Standard |
| Reclining rear seats | Standard |
| Folding center armrest | Standard |
In comparison, the 2023 Kia Seltos and the 2023 Hyundai Kona have slightly different dimensions, which influence their interior space and overall capabilities.
The Seltos is longer and offers more interior volume, including cargo space, making it a practical choice for passengers and their belongings.
On the other hand, the Kona is slightly smaller, which can be advantageous for urban maneuverability and parking. Additionally, the Seltos boasts higher ground clearance, appealing to off-road enthusiasts.
Buyers should consider their specific needs, such as passenger capacity and cargo requirements, to determine which SUV aligns best with their lifestyle and preferences.
Both vehicles provide comfortable seating arrangements and versatile rear seat options, ensuring an enjoyable driving experience for both drivers and passengers alike.
Read also: Mazda CX-30 vs Kia Seltos
Color Options
The exterior and interior color choices available for a vehicle allow buyers to personalize their driving experience and express their individual style. Let’s explore the color options for both the Kia Seltos vs Hyundai Kona.
The 2023 Kia Seltos offers a wide range of attractive exterior color options, catering to diverse preferences.
From the classic Snow White Pearl to the eye-catching Starbright Yellow/Black Cherry Roof, buyers can choose the color that best reflects their personality.
Additionally, the stylish interior is available in Black leatherette/cloth, providing a comfortable and sophisticated cabin ambiance.
While the 2023 Hyundai Kona also offers an attractive selection of exterior color options. From the bold Abyss Black Pearl to the refreshing Lunar White, each color complements Kona’s modern design.
The interior is available in either Black or Gray cloth, adding to the overall comfort and style of the cabin.
In comparison, both the 2023 Kia Seltos and the 2023 Hyundai Kona provide a variety of exterior color choices, allowing buyers to select the one that resonates with their preferences and makes a statement on the road.
Whether you prefer the vibrant hues of the Kia Seltos or the bold color options of the Hyundai Kona, both SUVs offer a stylish and personalized driving experience.
The availability of different interior colors ensures that drivers can enjoy a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing interior that complements the exterior design.
Prospective buyers are encouraged to visit local dealerships to see these vehicles in person and explore the various color options to find the perfect match for their taste and style.
Safety Features
Safety is a top priority for any vehicle, and both the 2023 Kia Seltos and the 2023 Hyundai Kona come equipped with essential driver-assistance technologies to enhance the safety of drivers and passengers. Let’s explore the key safety features offered by each SUV.
The 2023 Kia Seltos comes with a standard suite of driver-assistance technologies designed to provide added peace of mind during daily commutes and long journeys.
The base model includes standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, which helps to mitigate or avoid collisions with pedestrians and other vehicles.
Additionally, standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist assists drivers in staying within their designated lanes and prevents unintentional lane departures.
These features are available across all Seltos trims, ensuring that even entry-level models benefit from crucial safety technologies.
For buyers seeking more advanced safety features, Kia offers additional options on the range-topping SX trim.
These include adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts the vehicle’s speed to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead, and cyclist detection, which helps detect and prevent collisions with cyclists on the road.
These high-tech features enhance the Seltos’s safety capabilities, making it an attractive choice for safety-conscious consumers.
While the 2023 Hyundai Kona prioritizes safety by offering popular driver-assistance features as standard equipment.
The base model comes equipped with standard automated emergency braking, which detects potential collisions and applies the brakes to reduce or prevent accidents.
Additionally, lane-keeping assist ensures that drivers stay centered within their lanes and provides gentle steering assistance to avoid unintended lane departures.
Another essential safety feature is the driver-attention monitor, which alerts drivers if signs of drowsiness or inattentiveness are detected.
Hyundai also provides the option to add more advanced safety features to the Kona. For instance, buyers can choose to equip their Kona with adaptive cruise control, which adjusts the vehicle’s speed based on traffic conditions to maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles.
These optional safety features allow buyers to customize their Kona with additional safety technologies that align with their needs and preferences.
As with the Seltos, prospective buyers can access comprehensive crash-test results for the Seltos and Kona on the official websites of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Warranty
The warranty coverage offered by automotive manufacturers is an important consideration for car buyers, as it provides assurance and protection for their investment.
Let’s compare the warranty offerings for the Hyundai Kona vs Kia Seltos to understand the level of coverage each SUV provides.
– 2023 Kia Seltos Warranty
Kia is renowned for its exceptional warranty coverage, which is considered one of the best in the industry.
The 2023 Kia Seltos continues this tradition by offering a comprehensive warranty package to instill confidence in its customers.
The limited warranty covers the Seltos for 5 years or 60,000 miles, providing ample coverage for potential repairs and issues that may arise during the initial ownership period.
However, the most impressive aspect of Kia’s warranty is its powertrain coverage. The 2023 Kia Seltos benefits from a 10-year or 100,000-mile powertrain warranty, making it stand out among its competitors.
This extended powertrain coverage ensures that major components of the vehicle’s engine, transmission, and drivetrain are protected for an extended period, offering peace of mind to drivers.
It’s worth noting that while Kia provides an outstanding powertrain warranty, the Seltos does not include complimentary scheduled maintenance.
This means that buyers will be responsible for the cost of regular maintenance services, such as oil changes and filter replacements, after the initial purchase.
– 2023 Hyundai Kona Warranty:
Hyundai is also renowned for its generous warranty offerings, and the 2023 Hyundai Kona enjoys the same level of coverage as the rest of the Hyundai lineup.
The limited warranty covers the Kona for 5 years or 60,000 miles, providing a standard level of protection for the vehicle.
Like its sister company, Kia, Hyundai offers an impressive 10-year or 100,000-mile powertrain warranty for the Kona.
This extended powertrain coverage ensures that essential components of the engine, transmission, and drivetrain are protected for an extended period, adding to the Kona’s overall value and reliability.
In addition to the comprehensive powertrain warranty, Hyundai distinguishes itself by offering complimentary scheduled maintenance for the Kona.
This coverage lasts for 3 years or 36,000 miles, providing buyers with added convenience and cost savings for regular maintenance services during the initial ownership period.
Specifications
The specifications of a vehicle provide important details about its engine, transmission, and performance characteristics.
Let’s compare the specifications of the 2023 Kia Seltos vs 2023 Hyundai Kona to understand their engine capabilities and drivetrain options.
– 2023 Kia Seltos Specs:
| Base Engine Size | 2.0 L |
| Cylinders | Inline 4 |
| Base Engine Type | Gas |
| Transmission | Continuously Variable-Speed Automatic (CVT) |
| 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 |
The 2023 Kia Seltos is equipped with a 2.0-liter Inline 4-cylinder engine, operating on gasoline. This engine delivers a horsepower of 146 hp at 6,200 rpm and a torque of 132 lb-ft at 4,500 rpm.
The Seltos features a Continuously Variable-Speed Automatic (CVT) transmission, contributing to smooth gear shifts and efficient power delivery.
As for the drive type, the base model comes with Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), providing good traction for urban and highway driving.
– 2023 Hyundai Kona Specs:
| Base Engine Size | 2.0 L |
| Cylinders | Inline 4 |
| Base Engine Type | Gas |
| Transmission | Continuously Variable-Speed Automatic (CVT) |
| Drive Type | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| Horsepower | 147 hp @ 6,200 rpm |
| Torque | 132 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm |
| Valves | 16 |
| Cam Type | Double Overhead Cam (DOHC) |
| Valve Timing | Variable |
| Max Payload Capacity | 931 lbs. |
The 2023 Hyundai Kona also features a 2.0-liter Inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine, producing 147 hp at 6,200 rpm and 132 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm, which is similar to the Seltos’s engine performance.
The Kona comes equipped with a Continuously Variable-Speed Automatic (CVT) transmission, providing smooth and efficient gear changes.
However, the Kona has an advantage over the Seltos in terms of drivetrain options, as it is available in All-Wheel Drive (AWD), providing enhanced traction and stability for driving in various road conditions.
Additionally, the 2023 Hyundai Kona boasts a maximum payload capacity of 931 lbs., allowing it to carry a considerable amount of cargo and passengers.
In comparison, the specifications of the 2023 Kia Seltos and the 2023 Hyundai Kona reveal that both compact SUVs are equipped with similar engine sizes, horsepower, and torque.
The main difference lies in their drive type, with the Seltos featuring Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and the Kona offering All-Wheel Drive (AWD), providing more versatile performance and capability for different road conditions.
The 2023 Hyundai Kona’s higher payload capacity also makes it suitable for carrying more cargo and passengers.
Ultimately, both the Kia Seltos and the Hyundai Kona offer strong performance and reliability, making them competitive choices in the compact SUV segment.
Potential buyers are encouraged to test drive both vehicles to determine which one aligns better with their driving preferences and lifestyle requirements.
Read also: Mazda CX-3 vs Kia Sportage
Pros and Cons
The 2023 Kia Seltos and the 2023 Hyundai Kona share many similarities in their pros and cons, as both compact SUVs offer optional turbocharged engines, nimble handling, and a plethora of features for their respective price points.
However, they also share similar drawbacks, particularly concerning their base engines and interior materials.
– 2023 Kia Seltos: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Optional Turbocharged Engine: The Kia Seltos offers an optional turbocharged engine, which provides quick acceleration and enhances the overall driving experience, making it a more spirited drive for enthusiasts.
- Nimble Handling: The Seltos boasts nimble handling, making it enjoyable to maneuver through city streets and winding roads, providing a dynamic and engaging driving experience.
- Lots of Features for Your Money: Kia is known for offering generous standard and available features, making the Seltos a great value for buyers who want modern amenities and technology in their vehicle.
Cons:
- Weak Base Engine: The base engine of the Kia Seltos might not be as powerful as some competitors, which could be a drawback for drivers seeking more spirited performance from the entry-level model.
- Interior with Hard Plastic Panels: Some interior components in the Seltos are made of hard plastic, which might give it a slightly less premium feel compared to some rivals.
– 2023 Hyundai Kona: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Optional Turbocharged Engine: Similar to the Seltos, the Hyundai Kona offers an optional turbocharged engine, providing quick acceleration and an engaging driving experience.
- Nimble Handling: The Kona also delivers nimble handling, making it agile and fun to drive, particularly in urban settings and on curvy roads.
- Lots of Features for Your Money: Hyundai is known for its value-packed offerings, and the Kona is no exception, providing a wealth of features at an affordable price point.
Cons:
- Weak Base Engine: The base engine of the Hyundai Kona may not offer the same level of performance as its optional turbocharged engine, potentially leaving some buyers desiring more power.
- Interior with Hard Plastic Panels: Similar to the Seltos, the Kona’s interior includes hard plastic panels, which might be seen as a minor drawback for those seeking a more premium cabin feel.
Conclusion
In summary, the 2023 Kia Seltos and the 2023 Hyundai Kona share many advantages, including optional turbocharged engines, nimble handling, and abundant features for the money, making them appealing choices in the compact SUV market.
However, the primary cons of both models are related to their base engines, which might not satisfy drivers seeking more powerful performance.
Additionally, some buyers might find the presence of hard plastic panels in their interiors slightly detracting from the overall cabin ambiance.
Ultimately, prospective buyers should consider their specific preferences and priorities when choosing between the Seltos and the Kona.
Both SUVs offer strong value and driving enjoyment, and a test drive of each vehicle will help potential buyers determine which one best suits their needs and provides the most enjoyable driving experience.
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