Kia Sportage vs Kia Seltos: A Comprehensive Comparison

Compare Kia Sportage vs Seltos – In the ever-expanding market of compact SUVs, Kia has consistently delivered top-notch vehicles that appeal to a wide range of consumers.

The 2023 Kia Sportage and the 2023 Kia Seltos are no exceptions, boasting impressive features and design elements that have caught the attention of car enthusiasts worldwide.

In this in-depth comparison, we will explore the differences between the two models, helping you make an informed decision when considering your next purchase.

What is the Difference Between Kia Sportage and Seltos?

The Kia Sportage and the Kia Seltos are two distinct compact SUV models offered by Kia, each with its own set of features and characteristics. Let’s explore the key differences between the two.

Pricing

The pricing of the 2023 Kia Sportage and the 2023 Kia Seltos varies based on the trim level and optional features selected.

The Sportage offers slightly higher starting prices compared to the Seltos, but it also provides more spaciousness and performance options.

– 2023 Kia Sportage Price:

The 2023 Kia Sportage is available in different trim levels, with varying price points to suit different needs.

The base FWD (Front-Wheel Drive) Sportage LX starts at $26,290, providing a well-equipped and affordable option for those seeking a reliable compact SUV.

If you prefer the added traction of an AWD (All-Wheel Drive) system, you can upgrade to the Sportage LX AWD for an additional $1,800, bringing the starting price to $28,090.

For those looking for more features and amenities, the X-Line trim is a popular choice. The 2023 Kia Sportage X-Line starts at $31,090, offering a balance of performance, technology, and comfort.

At the top of the range is the X-Pro Prestige model, which provides the ultimate driving experience with its luxurious features and performance enhancements. The 2023 Kia Sportage X-Pro Prestige starts at $37,090.

– 2023 Kia Seltos Price:

The 2023 Kia Seltos also offers a variety of trim levels, ensuring there is an option for every budget.

The Seltos lineup starts with the S FWD (Front-Wheel Drive) model, which has a starting price of $23,390, making it an affordable choice for those seeking a stylish and feature-rich compact SUV.

If you desire the added confidence and capability of an AWD system, the Seltos LX AWD is available at a slightly higher starting price of $23,340. With its AWD capabilities, the Seltos LX AWD is well-suited for various weather conditions and road surfaces.

For those seeking more advanced technology and premium amenities, the Seltos SX is the top-tier option. The 2023 Kia Seltos SX starts at $28,340, providing a compelling blend of performance, comfort, and safety features.

On the other hand, the Seltos impresses with its attractive pricing, making it an excellent value for consumers looking for a well-equipped compact SUV.

Read also: Kia Sorento vs Kia Telluride

Fuel Economy

The Kia Sportage offers commendable fuel efficiency figures for a compact SUV in 2023. When equipped with front-wheel drive (FWD), the Sportage achieves an EPA-rated 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.

These numbers are quite impressive, allowing for economical urban commutes and extended highway journeys.

For those who opt for the added traction and confidence of all-wheel drive (AWD), the Sportage still maintains respectable fuel economy ratings.

AWD models are rated for 23 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway by the EPA. While the AWD slightly impacts fuel efficiency, it still provides reasonable numbers for a vehicle in this class.

As of now, specific fuel economy results for the 75-mph fuel-economy route have not been tested for the 2023 Kia Sportage. However, it is worth noting that real-world driving experiences may vary slightly from EPA estimates.

While the Kia Seltos is also known for its commendable fuel efficiency, making it an attractive choice for those seeking economical daily drives.

The EPA estimates that front-wheel-drive (FWD) Seltos models with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine can achieve up to 35 mpg on the highway. This figure positions the Seltos as one of the more fuel-efficient options in its segment.

For those who desire the performance-oriented turbocharged 1.6-liter engine with all-wheel drive (AWD), the Seltos still delivers respectable fuel economy.

On the 75-mph highway fuel-economy test route, the AWD Seltos with the turbocharged engine managed to achieve 30 mpg, demonstrating a balance of power and efficiency.

Dimensions

The dimensions of a vehicle play a crucial role in determining its maneuverability, interior space, and overall driving experience.

Let’s compare the dimensions of the Kia Sportage vs Seltos to understand their respective sizes and capabilities.

2023 Kia Sportage Dimensions:

Front Seat Dimensions:

Rear Seat Dimensions:

2023 Kia Seltos Dimensions:

Front Seat Dimensions:

Rear Seat Dimensions:

In conclusion, the 2023 Kia Sportage and the 2023 Kia Seltos hybrid exhibit differences in their dimensions, catering to different preferences and needs.

The Sportage is slightly larger, offering more cargo space and interior room, making it a suitable choice for families or those who prioritize spaciousness.

On the other hand, the Seltos presents a more compact build, ideal for maneuvering in urban environments and tight parking spaces.

Additionally, the ground clearance and angles of approach and departure in both models indicate their off-road capabilities, With the Seltos having a slight edge in terms of approach and departure angles, making it more adept at handling rough terrain.

Read also: Kia Sorento vs Hyundai Santa Fe

Color Options

– 2023 Kia Sportage Colors

The Kia Sportage offers a diverse range of exterior colors, from the classic Ebony Black and Glacial White Pearl to the more vibrant Dawning Red and Jungle Green.

For those who prefer a touch of sophistication, the Sapphire Blue and Gravity Gray options provide an elegant look.

Inside the Sportage, you can choose between two interior color options: Sage Green leatherette and Saturn Black leatherette, both offering a premium and comfortable feel.

Exterior Colors:

• Ebony Black
• Dawning Red
• Jungle Green
• Wolf Gray
• Sapphire Blue
• Glacial White Pearl
• Gravity Gray

Interior Colors:

• Sage Green, leatherette
• Saturn Black, leatherette

– 2023 Kia Seltos Colors

The Kia Seltos boasts an eye-catching array of exterior colors, including the unique Clear White/Black Cherry Roof and Starbright Yellow/Black Cherry Roof combinations.

The Neptune Blue and Mars Orange options add a vibrant touch to the lineup, while the more classic Gravity Gray and Snow White Pearl options offer a timeless appeal.

Inside the Seltos, the black leatherette/cloth interior adds a sporty and contemporary feel to the cabin.

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

The Kia Sportage and the Seltos present a wide variety of color options, allowing you to customize your chosen vehicle to match your personality and style.

Whether you prefer classic colors or bold combinations, both models provide an array of choices to cater to your preferences.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority for Kia, and both the 2023 Kia Sportage and the 2023 Kia Seltos come equipped with advanced driver-assistance technologies to enhance the safety of drivers and passengers.

The 2023 Kia Sportage offers a comprehensive suite of standard and optional safety features, providing drivers with added confidence and peace of mind on the road. Some of the key safety features include:

• Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking: This system helps detect potential collisions with vehicles or pedestrians ahead and automatically applies the brakes to mitigate or prevent an accident.

• Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist: These features work together to monitor the vehicle’s position within the lane and provide alerts or steering assistance to keep the Sportage safely centered on the road.

• Available blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert: These optional features assist the driver in detecting vehicles in their blind spots and approaching traffic when reversing, helping to avoid potential collisions.

Additionally, the Kia Sportage offers advanced technologies like navigation-based adaptive cruise control and a remote parking feature, which enhances convenience and safety in various driving scenarios.

While the 2023 Kia Seltos also prioritizes safety by providing a standard suite of driver-assistance technologies across its range. Some of the key safety features include:

Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection: This system detects potential collisions with pedestrians and activates the brakes to prevent or reduce the severity of accidents.

Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist: These features assist the driver in maintaining proper lane position and provide warnings or steering assistance if unintentional lane departure occurs.

Available adaptive cruise control and cyclist detection: The higher-trim SX model of the Seltos offers advanced technologies like adaptive cruise control, which adjusts the vehicle’s speed based on traffic conditions, and cyclist detection, which enhances safety around bicyclists.

As with the Sportage, customers can access comprehensive crash-test results for the Seltos on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty

Kia is renowned for its impressive warranty offerings, providing consumers with added peace of mind and confidence in their vehicles.

Kia’s warranty plan for the 2023 Sportage is among the best in the industry, providing extensive coverage for critical components of the vehicle.

However, it does not include complimentary scheduled maintenance like some of its competitors. Here are the key details of the warranty for the 2023 Kia Sportage:

• Limited Warranty: Covers the vehicle for five years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. This comprehensive coverage protects against defects in materials or workmanship during the specified period.

• Powertrain Warranty: Offers extended protection for the powertrain components, such as the engine and transmission, for ten years or 100,000 miles. This extended coverage demonstrates Kia’s confidence in the durability and reliability of their powertrain systems.

• Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance: Unlike some competitors, the 2023 Kia Sportage does not include complimentary scheduled maintenance, which means owners are responsible for routine service costs.

Similar to the Sportage, the 2023 Kia Seltos also benefits from Kia’s exceptional warranty coverage. Here are the key details of the warranty for the 2023 Kia Seltos:

• Limited Warranty: Provides coverage for five years or 60,000 miles, protecting against defects in materials or workmanship during the specified period.

• Powertrain Warranty: Offers the same extensive ten-year or 100,000-mile coverage for the powertrain components, ensuring long-term peace of mind for Seltos owners.

• Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance: As with the Sportage, the 2023 Kia Seltos does not include complimentary scheduled maintenance, meaning owners are responsible for routine service expenses.

Both the 2023 Kia Sportage and the 2023 Kia Seltos benefit from Kia’s exceptional warranty coverage, including a robust powertrain warranty of ten years or 100,000 miles.

However, neither model includes complimentary scheduled maintenance, which may be a consideration for some buyers.

Kia’s warranty offerings are a testament to the brand’s commitment to producing reliable and high-quality vehicles, providing customers with added assurance and value in their purchases.

When considering your options, the extensive warranty coverage provided by Kia is a significant advantage, ensuring that your investment is protected for the long haul.

Read also: Mazda CX-30 vs Kia Niro

Specifications

The specifications of a vehicle provide essential information about its engine, transmission, and performance capabilities.

Let’s compare the specifications of the Kia Sportage vs Kia Seltos to understand their powertrains and other key details.

– 2023 Kia Sportage Specs:

The 2023 Kia Sportage comes equipped with a 2.5-liter inline-4 gas engine, offering a balanced combination of power and fuel efficiency.

With its 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, the Sportage delivers a capable and engaging driving experience.

The 8-speed shiftable automatic transmission ensures smooth gear transitions and efficient power delivery.

Additionally, the Sportage offers the option of all-wheel drive, enhancing traction and stability in various driving conditions.

Its maximum towing capacity of 2,500 lbs. makes it suitable for hauling small trailers or recreational equipment.

– 2023 Kia Seltos Specs:

The 2023 Kia Seltos features a 2.0-liter inline-4 gas engine, offering efficiency and practicality for daily commutes.

With 146 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, the Seltos provides a smooth and efficient performance.

The continuously variable-speed automatic (CVT) transmission optimizes power delivery and fuel economy, making it well-suited for urban driving.

The Seltos comes with front-wheel drive as the standard drivetrain, focusing on providing a comfortable and nimble driving experience for city dwellers.

Pros and Cons

Kia Sportage Pros:

• Stylish, quiet, and high-tech interior: The Sportage offers a modern and aesthetically pleasing cabin design, complemented by advanced technology features. The overall interior ambiance creates a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.

• Roomy seating and a huge cargo area: With ample space for both passengers and cargo, the Sportage proves to be a practical choice for families and travelers. Its generous cargo capacity allows for easy transportation of various items.

• Added off-road capability with X-Pro trim: The X-Pro trim level of the Sportage enhances its off-road capabilities, making it a suitable option for adventurous drivers who seek versatility beyond regular city driving.

Cons:

• Standard engine supplies leisurely acceleration: Some drivers may find the base engine’s acceleration to be less spirited compared to more powerful options in the segment.

• Subpar fuel economy from this engine too: The standard engine’s fuel efficiency may fall short of some competitors, making it less ideal for those seeking maximum mileage from their vehicle.

Kia Seltos Pros:

• Plenty of cargo space: The Seltos offers a spacious cargo area, accommodating various luggage and gear, making it suitable for road trips and everyday errands.

• Upscale interior design and materials: Kia has designed the Seltos with high-quality materials, creating an upscale feel and enhancing the overall comfort of the cabin.

• Distinctive styling and paint choices add personality: The Seltos boasts unique styling and offers a range of vibrant paint options, allowing drivers to showcase their personality through their vehicle choice.

Cons:

• Front seats aren’t very comfortable for long drives: Some drivers may find the front seats of the Seltos less supportive during extended journeys, potentially affecting long-distance comfort.

• Less than athletic handling: While the Seltos is a capable compact SUV, its handling may not be as sporty or engaging as some competitors, potentially impacting driving enthusiasts seeking dynamic performance.

Conclusion

The 2023 Kia Sportage and the 2023 Kia Seltos are two exceptional offerings from Kia, each catering to specific preferences and needs.

The Sportage presents a slightly larger and more versatile option, while the Seltos excels in its value proposition and city-friendly dimensions.

Ultimately, the decision between the two comes down to personal preferences and priorities, and we hope this comprehensive comparison has helped you make an informed choice.

Whichever model you choose, you can rest assured that Kia’s commitment to quality and innovation will provide you with a rewarding driving experience for years to come.

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