2024 Kia Seltos declares war on the Subcompact SUV category

In 2024, Subcompact SUVs are very high on consumers’ minds and wants lists as they have grown in size, and the need for people movers has declined overall. With more consumers realizing that large vehicle size, with features such as big back seats and third rows, is not as important as everyday driving, interest has perked up for subcompacts.

Honda leads the way in the subcompact SUV category with its ever popular HR-V, but after its most recent turtle-shaped redesign, consumers are looking elsewhere. Kia enters Grasso’s Garage with a redesigned 2024 Seltos SX Turbo AWD. With a base price of under $30K, the Seltos boasts tremendous opportunities for an array of consumers. While the HR-V and Hyundai’s Kona have historically led this category, the Mazda CX-30 and Kia Seltos are certainly making waves and for good reason. Our tester, wrapped in Pluton Blue, was a sight to see. Although not a color choice that appeals to me, I can see it being a win for consumers who want options outside of the norm.

Powering the Seltos is Kia’s ever popular 1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder engine with 195 pound-feet of torque, offering 195 horsepower and eight-speed automatic transmission. Our Seltos was all-wheel drive, making it that much better in snowy and icy conditions.

Most manufacturers have found popularity and profit in this category by offering simpler options, basic interiors and general focus on vehicles as mere transportation, all for an entry level price. With the best warranty in the business, Kia does one better ... they drop the continuously variable transmission (CVT)! Honda and others have always used the CVT, as it is inexpensive to build. Yet consumers have had to put up with the loud noise CVTs create. Those days are over for Kia. It went back to basics with the eight-speed transmission, making the Seltos a complete win for everyone.

2024 Kia Seltos SX Turbo AWD

MSRP: $29,990

MPG: 25 city / 27 highway / 26.1 as tested

As Tested: $31,855