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2021 Kia Seltos review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
7 photos

Kia Seltos highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

(data not available)

Pros

  • Abundant cargo space
  • Upscale interior design
  • Unique styling and personality

Cons

  • Front seats lack comfort
  • Handling is not particularly sporty
  • Underpowered base engine

Mileage (EPA estimate)

25 city, 30 highway, 27 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

7 photos
Price
Year

All Kia Seltos years

2021 Kia Seltos trims

Curious how Kia Seltos trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

LX:

  • 146-hp, 132-lb-ft of torque 2.0L
  • Cloth Seats
  • Rear View Camera
  • Power Mirrors
  • Cruise Control
  • Rear Defroster
  • Side Airbags
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Traction Control

S:

  • Includes all features available on the LX
  • 175-hp, 195-lb-ft of torque 1.6L
  • Leatherette Seats
  • Leatherette & Cloth
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Turbo Charged Engine
  • View our Kia Seltos S inventory

EX:

SX:

  • Includes all features available on the EX
  • Remote Start
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • BOSE Sound System
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Navigation System
  • View our Kia Seltos SX inventory

Kia Seltos photos

5 reasons to buy the 2021 Kia Seltos

1. Eye-catching style

From its honeycomb mesh grille to its rear spoiler, the 2021 Kia Seltos boasts a bold style that stands out on the road. Privacy glass, which comes standard on all trims, will make your passengers feel like VIPs, further adding to the stylish vibe. You can also keep the fresh air flowing with the power sunroof (standard on the EX and available on the SX trim).

2. Tons of driver aids

The 2021 Kia Seltos comes loaded with driver-assistance features. All trims include rearview monitors with parking guidance, electronic stability control to help navigate difficult driving conditions, hill-start assist control to help you begin a steep incline, and rear occupant alerts that will flash a reminder to check the backseat at the end of a drive. For more driver aids, consider upgrading to a higher trim. For example, the S trim and up can help you stay centered in the lane, both by beeping if you drift near another lane without signaling and suggesting when you might need to take a break.

3. Comfortable interior

In the 2021 Kia Seltos, reclining seats aren't only found in the front—they come standard in the back, too. Comfort is next level in the EX and SX trims. They feature heated front seats, automatic air conditioning, a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and the leather-like SOFINO seat trim that will make you look forward to long drives.

4. Atmospheric light and sound system

The SX trim of the 2021 Kia Seltos will make you feel like the star of a music video with its distinctive sound mood lighting system. It pumps your go-to driving music through the Bose® audio system as soft interior lights pulse and intensify in sync with the beat and volume. The system features eight colors and six theme settings, so you can set just the right atmosphere for your drive. You can also stream your favorite playlist through Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ connectivity, which come standard on all trims.

5. Several drive mode options

Take control of your driving experience with Kia's Drive Mode Select system, standard on all trims of the 2021 Seltos. It optimizes the steering feel, throttle response, fuel efficiency, and other aspects of the vehicle on demand with the turn of a knob. Normal mode offers a soft driving style to make everyday riding comfortable. ECO mode gently reduces the acceleration response to go easier on the fuel. Finally, Sport mode gives you tighter steering and control for a firm ride.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

4.7 out of 5

9 customer reviews

Kia Seltos features and specs

S 2WD 4D Sport Utility

Standard Features

  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Cruise Control
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Leatherette & Cloth
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear View Camera
  • Side Airbags
  • Traction Control
  • Remote Start
  • Satellite Radio Ready

Drive Wheels

Front Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

2.0L

Horsepower

146

Torque (ft-lbs)

132

Engine type

Gas

Fuel capacity

13.2

Wheelbase

103.5"

Overall length

172"

Width

70.9"

Height

63.6"

Leg room

F 41.4"/R 38"

Head room

F 40"/R 38.4"

Front tires

P215/55HR17

Rear tires

P215/55HR17

Seating capacity

5

Transmission

Automatic

2021 Kia Seltos FAQ

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