2021 Kia Sportage vs Seltos

With the 2021 Kia Sportage and Seltos, Kia has provided automotive enthusiasts with two daring crossovers that have hit just the right spot in modern driving. Despite their nearly identical exteriors, these models differentiate themselves by offering unique experiences for those behind the wheel—the 2021 Sportage is a suitable fit for city dwellers searching for an edgy ride while its twin brother, the 2021 Seltos urges drivers to venture off-road and explore.

In a crowded market segment, it is easy for crossover models to be overlooked as just another vehicle option. The 2021 Kia Seltos and 2021 Kia Sportage strive to stand out among others, especially for their performance attributes. Heightened styling elements within the interior and an option to include a two-tone color scheme on the exterior are two characteristics that help differentiate these crossover models in a crowd. Fighting to maintain their relevance and individuality, the Kia Sportage and Kia Seltos have seen their fair share of upgrades over the years. In fact, it is this level of innovation that has gotten them to the point they are at today.

Buyers in search of a bit more space in a standard crossover model will find themselves at home in either the 2021 Kia Sportage or the 2021 Kia Seltos. Going above and beyond what traditional crossovers have to offer, the Sportage and the Seltos also invest in tech-savvy multimedia elements and various season-specific exterior attributes.

Size and Styling

When it comes to the 2021 Kia lineup, size matters: the Sportage is a subcompact SUV ready for family drives and outdoor excursions; while the Seltos is more suited towards city streets with its compact design and hatch-style trunk for easy loading. However, both offer plenty of interior space in different ways - so which you choose completely depends on where your adventure takes you.

The 2021 Kia Sportage and Seltos provide a perfect pair of distinct urban-to-offroad crossovers. Flanked by bold, rounded contours and high headlights that give an edge to the sightline, the Sportage is ideal for those who want a statement crossover with robust design. Meanwhile, city dwellers looking for modern style will find that sleek lines adorning the boxy Seltos make it their go-to choice.

While the 2021 Kia Sportage looks larger and more imposingly powerful than its compact counterpart, the 2021 Kia Seltos, size does not necessarily equate to space. In fact, it's quite the opposite: with a smaller exterior comes extra interior volume for cargo storage and comfortable seating in rear that make this pint-sized SUV an unexpected powerhouse on capacity.

Drivability

The 2021 Kia Sportage has emerged to be the undisputed leader in building and dispersing power. Its 2.0-liter turbo engine embodies tremendous potential which propels it ahead of its competition, including the Kia Seltos; reaching speeds beyond what many smaller crossovers are capable of achieving! If a more relaxed driving experience is desired, then one can opt for any base model with a four-cylinder sans turbo paired up with an automatic six-speed transmission – sheer comfort on wheels.

The 2021 Kia Seltos packs a punch with its two engine options - a powerful turbocharged 1.6-liter and an entry-level 2.0 that is outfitted for reliability, each mated to their respective transmission types of six speed automatic and CVT respectively. However the power output pales in comparison to what's offered from the 2021 Kia Sportage model range.

The 2021 Kia Sportage and Seltos both offer individualized driving experiences thanks to their distinct engine options. From the brawny power of the larger crossover Sportage, to its good handling capabilities, every ride is exciting yet reliable. For date nights or long commutes alike, you can count on a smooth sailing journey with the smaller Seltos – equipped with standard all-wheel drive for quick maneuvering and composed entertainment behind the wheel.

The 2021 Kia Sportage and Seltos are two popular SUV options, but if you're looking to ease the tension on your wallet at fuel pumps there is a stark difference in their MPG capabilities. With turbo or non-turbo engine models available for both cars, it's easy to see that when it comes down to saving money with every gallon - the Seltos has its rival beat.

Comfort, Options and Performance

With the 2021 Kia Sportage and Seltos, you can experience an adventure in luxury. Step into the cabin of the spacious Sportage to find useful details amongst its quality upholstery and functional features - a true blend of both comfort and style! The interior of the city-ready Seltos takes refinement to another level with ambient lighting accents plus two tone detailing that is certain to turn heads. Whether taking on your next outdoor journey or downtown outing, these Kia's will make sure every drive is one worth admiring.

The 2021 Kia Seltos is leading the charge in crossover innovation by offering a 10.25-inch touchscreen, and split screen technology as standard amenities! In comparison, the Kia Sportage offers an 8.0-inch touchscreen with limited potential for customization - but it's still impressive nonetheless! As tech positively transforms modern vehicles year after year, there has never been a better time to upgrade your ride than now.

The 2021 Kia Seltos is a tech powerhouse, with wireless charging and an advanced head-up display giving drivers optimal control. For those wanting to up their audio game as well, there's the optional premium Bose sound system – all ready for your enjoyment! Meanwhile, the trusty Sportage offers its own level of comfort thanks to modern conveniences like built-in navigation (available as an upgrade). With these two options from Kia though it's clear you no longer have to sacrifice style or luxury when choosing between them.

Safety

If the safety elements and crashworthiness of a new vehicle model is a major consideration for you, then the vast differences of the 2021 Kia Sportage and the 2021 Kia Seltos should be examined. Starting off in the lead, the 2021 Kia Sportage was given a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA for its safety amenities. It was also named as a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS for its crash-worthy structuring and mitigation technology. Not only does it offer a bevy of driver-assistive safety amenities, but it withstands the impact from crashes well, too. In opposition, the 2021 Kia Seltos only achieved a four-star rating from the NHTSA and did not perform well in crash-testing conducted by IIHS.

One of the downfalls of the 2021 Kia Seltos is the lack of standard safety features and driver-assistive safety elements it incorporates. In fact, nearly all its safety amenities are only available as upgrades. Those who invest in the base model Kia Seltos will be disheartened to find a lack of safety elements unless they are upgraded to for additional fees.

In contrast, the 2021 Kia Sportage does a great job of offering many of its safety amenities available as standard. Forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist are just a few examples of basic inclusions in the Kia Sportage. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are just a few safety enhancements that are available only as upgrades.

Which Model to Choose?

Selecting a crossover model to purchase is a big decision that will affect your lifestyle and wallet for years to come, so it is important to consider every aspect you may find valuable in a new model prior to committing to a purchase. The 2021 Kia Sportage and the 2021 Kia Seltos each have an array of advantages that differ from the other. Yet, these crossovers are also alike in many ways. Prioritizing the facets that you must have in a new model will help evaluate how well each of these options will fit into your life.

Enjoy the freedom of an open road and embrace a sense of adventure with the 2021 Kia Sportage. This larger crossover model is ready to take your off-roading dreams further than before, confidently pushing boundaries as only an SUV can do. But you won't have to sacrifice safety for performance - both are standard in this remarkable vehicle! Whether it's tackling rough terrain or cruising through city streets, be prepared for any possibility that comes along with taking on new challenges when behind the wheel of the bold Sportage.

Yet, if you travel to the city often and need a more fuel efficient model, the 2021 Kia Seltos is a better option. Inside, it offers more tech amenities and convenience elements to make long drives more comfortable. Less powerful but more agile than the Kia Sportage, the Kia Seltos was made for driving on tight roads and fitting into small parking spaces. Yet, this crossover still manages to make the best of what space it was given. Despite its smaller size from the 2021 Kia Sportage, the 2021 Kia Seltos actually has more room within its cabin for passengers and cargo. For all of these reasons, we would prefer the 2021 Kia Seltos over the 2021 Kia Sportage time and time again.