2021 Hyundai Kona vs Kia Seltos

Smaller SUVs than average may appeal to certain buyers due to their flexibility, efficiency and ease of entry. Furthermore, compact SUVs boast more spacious cabins that many drivers appreciate. Examples such as the 2021 Hyundai Kona and Kia Seltos will surely draw a lot of interest from those seeking contemporary and stylish cars at an affordable price point.

Reviewing each model thoroughly should provide an overview of its primary attributes. While there may be similarities between them, which makes sense given how closely affiliated both companies are, Hyundai owns approximately one-third of Kia Motors! There are a few key ways Kona and Seltos differ from one another.

The Powertrain

The Hyundai Kona comes in six versions, all powered by 2.0-liter engines with four cylinders. Any of these engines will give you 147 horsepower and 132 pounds-feet of torque. Models at the top use four-cylinder engines but come equipped with turbochargers; although less powerful than normal displacements of 1.6 Litres, these smaller turbos produce 175 horsepower and 195 pounds-feet of torque - sure to please drivers looking to enjoy their ride more!

Kia Seltos offers five trim levels, the three available use 2.0-liter engines with the same torque as the Kona's standard engine (146 horsepower). However, top trims of the Kona use a turbocharged engine - one digit less than what Kona lists as its horsepower rating.

It's no shock that all Kona and Seltos models with turbo engines feature the same kind of transmission: a seven-speed dual clutch system designed to make these SUVs more agile. Lower trims of Kona use automatic six speeds, while upper-level Seltos models feature smart variable transmissions - meaning casual drivers won't notice any distinctions between them.

On every Kona model that offers front-wheel drive, customers have the option of upgrading to all-wheel drive if they feel that extra traction would be beneficial. The setup differs slightly in this model Kia Seltos; some trims can be purchased as models with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive capabilities.

With a front-wheel drive Kona powered by an engine of 2.0 liter, fuel efficiency could reach as high as 33 miles/gallon for highway driving and 27 miles per gallon in city conditions. All-wheel drivetrain models would slightly decrease these figures to 30-26 (highway/city) miles for every gallon. There's slight difference in efficiency with turbo engines; front wheel drive versions get 32 to 28 miles per gallon while all-wheel drive models get 29/26 MPG.

The Kia Seltos boasts almost identical mileage figures to its rivals; however, these vehicles are praised for their performance. With a conventional engine equipped with front-wheel drive, the Kia Seltos could achieve 34 and 29 miles (highway/city) per gallon respectively; an all-wheel drive model would yield 31/27 miles for every gallon while those equipped with turbo engines only receive 30/25 miles per gallon.

When considering which car to purchase, Hyundai or Kona are both excellent choices. Both companies provide warranties on their powertrains that last up to 10 years or 100,000 miles - much longer than other companies' offers. It pays off to shop with either company knowing you'll get quality workmanship and materials at a great price!

Drivability

Although these cars appear similar from a distance, there is an obvious distinction in the dimensions. The Kona's width measures 64 inches, while the Seltos' is 172 inches. This could affect driving experience for certain drivers, particularly those who park in urban zones. Both models share similar dimensions but differ height-wise; Kia Seltos stands taller and appears higher off ground - giving it more of an SUV look while Kona appears more like a crossover vehicle.

The interior dimensions of the Kona paint a similar picture. Passengers in the second row get 34.6 inches of legroom, while cargo space measures 19 cubic feet but can be expanded to 46 cubic feet by folding seats down in the back.

In the Seltos, rear seat passengers enjoy 38 inches of legroom - offering additional comfort for larger riders. When rear seats are upright, cargo volume increases to 27 cubic feet while its maximum capacity is 64 cubic feet. If you plan on using their brand-new cars to transport a full load of gear or passengers, these extra inches will certainly come into play.

When assessing the overall car experience, one factor to consider is the type of infotainment system the vehicle comes with. Hyundai has offered its Kona seven-inch touchscreen to all models; it's equipped with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay in addition to Bluetooth connectivity. SiriusXM service is available on all trims except the base version; wireless charging as well as a premium audio system with eight speakers are standard on four out of six trims while the top model of the Kona receives navigation and an 8-inch touchscreen.

From a technological perspective, the Seltos has an edge as its lower trim comes with an 8-inch touchscreen and its top trim features 10.25-inch with navigation. There are other features to consider as well - each trim comes with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Siri Eyes Free; however only top trims have SiriusXM Satellite Radio. Bose Audio systems may only be found in certain upper models while all others offer six-speaker sound systems. Wireless charging is included in two models' technology bundles as well.

Safety

Both Hyundai Kona and Kia Seltos come standard with several safety features that are present throughout their lineups. Each trim comes equipped with LATCH system to attach child seats, three-point belts in all positions, stability/traction control systems that can make adjustments as necessary, as well as tire pressure monitoring capability.

Kia Seltos offers two features that Kona cannot provide: Hill Start Assist Control and Downhill Brake Control. Hill Start Assist Control comes into play when the driver stops on a slope facing upwards, maintaining brake pressure when they switch between pedaling the brake and gas pedal; thus stopping any potential backward movement of the vehicle. Downhill Brake Control works in reverse; it activates brakes to guarantee smooth, steady descents down steep hillsides.

The Hyundai Kona stands out with regards to driver-assist technology. Starting with its base version that comes equipped with driver-assist, the Kona features automatic emergency braking and forward collision warning that reduces the chance of colliding with the vehicle ahead. Furthermore, it has lane keeping aid that helps it remain centered, plus another component which alerts if someone appears not fully focused on driving. In comparison, Kia Seltos' standard version lacks any of these attributes.

Upgrading to the latest model of Hyundai Kona brings with it an array of features. Customers will appreciate blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alerts, as well as lane change assist. Furthermore, this top-of-the-line Kona has an enhanced parking distance alert system and pedestrian detection for even greater peace of mind.

As previously noted, the Seltos does not come with any driver assist technology - this is only available in other models. On the second level of the lineup you can find numerous features such as frontal collision warning and emergency braking, driver awareness alert with lane keeping/following assist and warning for lane departure. Furthermore, all Seltos models now include auto high beams too; unlike in the Kona which only offers automatic high beams on upper trim levels.

The mid-tier Seltos trim level includes blind spot monitoring and rear alerts for crossing traffic. These systems do more than simply observe; they assist by adjusting your driving or applying brakes when necessary.

The top trim of the Seltos comes equipped with pedestrian detection, just like its more expensive siblings in the Kona. Furthermore, this technology can detect cyclists on roads as well.

Smart cruise control is available in both Seltos and Kona models, though only the most sophisticated versions. It's a handy feature to have while driving on open highways where traffic moves at a constant speed; however, if that traffic slows down, both vehicles can adjust their speeds to match.

Which Has the Best Value?

Hyundai Kia and Hyundai Kia are known for creating affordable automobiles at an affordable price point. The Kona S trim starts at $20,500 while Ultimate one costs $28,150. Seltos LX costs ($21,990), slightly more expensive than Kona's LX price tag of $20,990; SX Turbo SX Turbo is currently the most expensive Seltos available at $27,990.

With seven Kona trim levels and six Seltos trims, there's something for everyone - and not just one-to-one across all models! Each model offers an attractive cost increase when upgrading one trim level while providing buyers with great upgrades as well.

At Kona, the SEL series includes remote keyless entry and heated front seats; the SEL Plus boasts an adjustable driver's seat that can be adjusted by power with wireless charging; while the Night comes equipped with specific exterior upgrades as well as its turbocharged motor. Both Limited and Ultimate models feature leather seats, auto-dimming rearview mirrors, automatic climate control - with the Ultimate offering the most cutting-edge technology.

On the Seltos S trim level, driver assist technology is standard equipment. This trim features fabric and SOFINO (a synthetic leather) upholstery as well as an upholstered steering wheel; on the EX there are SOFINO seats along with heating front seats for even more refinement. S Turbo and SX Turbo appear sportier due to their turbocharged engines and 18-inch wheels; ultimately the SX Turbo boasts the most technologically advanced features of them all.

Which Is Better?

Hyundai Kona and Kia Seltos share many characteristics. For instance, both vehicles come equipped with similar engines and fall within the same price range. Which Do You Think is Better?
Both cars are great options if you're in the market for a new vehicle.

They may appear similar in size, but upon closer inspection it becomes evident that the Seltos is larger. At 25 inches longer and taller, its interior provides more room for luggage or passengers - making it the ideal option for those needing more room.

The Kia Seltos offers a sportier and more sophisticated aesthetic. It may be that the majority of its trims come with standard all-wheel drive, giving potential buyers an indication of its robustness. Furthermore, the Seltos model boasts numerous safety and technology features; however some buyers may not prefer what's offered on lower levels.

The Kona is sure to capture the attention of those seeking an urban or suburban vehicle that offers ample storage space yet can still fit into tight parking spots. At its high end, it comes equipped with luxurious features like leather seats and standard driver assistance software - helping it make a statement in any environment.

Which factors matter most to each buyer depends. If you need an all-wheel drive vehicle with a spacious cabin and athletic appearance, then the Kia Seltos could be ideal. On the other hand, those seeking small reliable cars might prefer Kona as its more reliable alternative; though slightly more costly.