Kia's baby crossover is better than ever before.
The refreshed Kia Seltos broke cover back in June, and while it gave us a glimpse of the new styling, additional details were relatively scant. But now the compact crossover has been revealed at the LA Auto Show, and we have plenty to share.
Kia has reworked the turbocharged 1.6-liter engine, which now delivers an extra 20 horsepower, for a total of 195 hp. The most potent engine is now paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which hopefully does away with the clunkiness of the seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
Elsewhere, the 2.0-liter engine retains its outputs of 147 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque and sends power to the wheels via the company's Intelligent Variable Transmission (CVT). Buyers can, of course, choose between front- and all-wheel drive derivatives.
So far, it looks promising, and the Seltos is poised to retain its status as a class leader.
The interior of the 2024 Seltos hasn't changed much, but the segment-first panoramic screen display looks elegant and tidies up the cabin. It is comprised of an instrument cluster and a center display, both measuring 10.25 inches. A digital gauge display is available as an option, but the standard 4.2-inch cluster is also an improvement.
While overseas models have adopted a rotary gear selector, the American-spec model will retain a traditional gear lever. Overall, the interior is typical Kia: fuss-free, sensible, and well-equipped.
New features will also be made available. The 2024 Seltos now boasts four USB ports; two in the front and two in the rear. The crossover can also be specified with a power liftgate and ventilated front seats, provided you select the SX Sunroof Package.
The Seltos also features map and infotainment over-the-air updates and the Digital Key 2 Touch. Owners can use their Apple Watch, iPhone, or Samsung Galaxy devices as a key to lock and unlock the vehicle. The SX Sunroof Package goes further and allows these digital keys to be shared via text message.
New driver assist systems have been added to Kia's safety suite. This includes Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blind Spot Collision Warning (for S trim and above), and the Intelligent Speed Limited Assist. Available on the plusher SX model, this system can detect the maximum permitted speed, send warnings to the driver, and limit the vehicle's speed in some settings.
All models receive Drive Attention Warning, High Beam Assist, Lane Following Assist, and a Rear View Monitor as standard.
The X-Line trim has proved hugely popular for Kia, so it only makes sense that it's now a permanent addition to the range. This high-end trim level adds unique 18-inch wheels, an exclusive grille design with a gunmetal finish, gloss black door garnish, X-Line badging, and more.
It will join the existing LX, S, EX, and SX trims, which also receive new wheel designs. Aside from the refreshed exterior styling, customers can also look forward to three new colors; Pluton Blue, Fusion Black, and Valais Green.
"Loaded with standout style, some of the latest technology, advanced driver assistance systems, and enthusiastic performance, the 2024 Seltos serves as the perfect gateway into our bigger and more capable SUVs when the consumer is ready to step up," said Kia's Steven Center.
While pricing is yet to be announced, expect the 2024 Seltos to hit showrooms in the first half of 2023.
Acura
Alfa Romeo
Aston Martin
Audi
Automobili Pininfarina
Bentley
BMW
Bollinger
BrightDrop
Bugatti
Buick
Cadillac
Caterham
Chevrolet
Chrysler
Dodge
Ferrari
Fiat
Fisker
Ford
Genesis
GMC
Gordon Murray Automotive
Hennessey
Honda
Hyundai
Ineos Automotive
Infiniti
Jaguar
Jeep
Karma
Kia
Koenigsegg
Lamborghini
Land Rover
Lexus
Lincoln
Lordstown
Lotus
Lucid Motors
Maserati
Mazda
McLaren
Mercedes-Benz
Mini
Mitsubishi
Nissan
Pagani
Polestar
Porsche
Ram
Rimac
Rivian
Rolls-Royce
Spyker
Subaru
Tesla
Toyota
VinFast
Volkswagen
Volvo
Join The Discussion