When you’re shopping for a compact SUV, the 2024 Kia Seltos often stands out. With strong buzz around its safety features and stylish interior, it’s fair to ask if it truly lives up to the hype.
That question makes sense if you’re looking for something practical with a bit of personality. The Seltos is known for its reliability, comfort, and value. For 2024, Kia has refined the design, improved fuel efficiency, and added more advanced safety tech.
This guide gives you a clear look at performance, features, pricing, and how the Seltos stacks up against the competition. By the end, you’ll know if it fits your lifestyle or if you should keep exploring.
Related: Is the 2024 Kia Forte GT the Best in Its Class? or New Kia Lease Deals Revealed: How to Save Big if you’re looking for other affordable options in the Kia lineup.
Key Specifications and Performance
Engine Variants and Road Performance
When you look under the hood of the 2024 Kia Seltos, you’ll find two primary engine choices. The first is a 2.0L four-cylinder that focuses on balanced fuel efficiency and predictable day-to-day driving. If you often stick to city streets or moderate highway cruising, this option might suit your needs well. It offers decent power without becoming a gas-guzzler.
On the other side, you have a turbocharged 1.6L engine designed to add a bit more zing to your daily drive. This turbo variant delivers quicker throttle response, and you’ll notice the difference when merging or passing on highways. If you enjoy a bit more pep under your right foot, you might gravitate toward this option. In either case, fuel efficiency remains competitive for the compact SUV segment—an important factor if you commute frequently or crave extended road trips without constant stops at the pump.
Driving Experience
Every inch of the Seltos is crafted to balance agility with stability. The available AWD system provides extra grip, which you’ll appreciate when navigating wet or snowy roads. Steering feedback is direct enough for an enjoyable feel yet easy enough that tight parking spaces won’t become a challenge. You can also expect a well-tuned suspension that soaks up everyday road imperfections.
To enhance your ride, tire brand choices—such as Michelin or Goodyear—may come standard or as upgrades, adding another layer of traction and comfort. When you blend reliable handling, a choice of engines, and optional AWD, you get a ride that aligns with a variety of lifestyles. Whether you prioritize efficiency or performance, there’s a version of the 2024 Seltos ready to accommodate you.
Exterior Design and Styling
Modern Design Language
At first glance, the 2024 Kia Seltos greets you with a confident presence. Kia’s signature tiger-nose grille, flanked by restyled headlights, makes an immediate statement. This redesign—though subtle—moves the Seltos in a more premium direction without losing the sporty and adventurous DNA that attracted early adopters. Character lines that run along the sides maintain a cohesive look, while accents around the roofline lend a distinctive finish.
If you take a closer look, you’ll notice how each design element serves a functional purpose. The slight upgrades to the front bumper, for instance, aim to improve aerodynamics. Kia’s careful attention to detail ensures that the Seltos stands apart from other compact SUVs, striking a sweet spot between boldness and everyday utility. Whether you’re driving in the city or venturing out of town, heads will turn, and you’ll take pride in rolling up in this sleek crossover.
Exterior Trim Options
Kia typically offers multiple trim levels on the Seltos—LX, S, EX, SX, and, in some markets, a Nightfall Edition. Each trim changes the external details, allowing you to pick a look that fits your preference. Are you seeking minimalistic styling and an affordable price tag? The entry-level LX might be right up your alley. If you crave a more upscale appearance with bigger wheels and LED headlights, the higher trims will pique your interest.
Aside from wheels, you can often opt for dual-tone paint jobs, giving the Seltos a distinct, modern flair. Those color choices can highlight the vehicle’s angular shape and bring out its athletic silhouette. Investing in a higher-tier model might offer you features like a power sunroof, roof rails, or other design elements that not only look good but also add practical benefits for your daily journey.
2024 Kia Seltos Interior Comfort and Technology
High-Tech Cabin Features
Step inside the 2024 Kia Seltos, and you’ll discover a dashboard designed around your needs. Modern crossovers live and die by their infotainment systems, and Kia has done its homework in this department. Many trims come standard with UVO Link, also referred to as Kia Connect. This platform bundles navigation, hands-free calls, and advanced telematics into an intuitive interface. Whether you lean toward Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, you’ll find seamless smartphone integration.
You might also appreciate the way Kia has addressed driver-assist features. From lane-keep assist to a rearview camera, the technology suite aims to reduce stress and offer peace of mind. Higher trims often include even more advanced driver-assistance systems, like blind-spot collision avoidance or adaptive cruise control, so you can pick a configuration that suits your comfort level.
Interior Space and Comfort
Despite its compact footprint, the Kia Seltos offers a surprisingly roomy cabin. Front-seat passengers enjoy ample legroom, while those in the rear won’t feel cramped on longer drives. If you haul groceries or luggage, you’ll appreciate the cargo capacity, which is generous enough to accommodate weekend trips without forcing you to play Tetris with your bags.
Seating materials span a variety of fabrics and synthetic leather options. Although base models provide durable cloth upholstery, you can upgrade to a leather-wrapped cabin if your tastes lean more upscale. Details such as soft-touch surfaces, well-organized controls, and thoughtful storage spots reveal that Kia has placed user experience front and center. It’s a space designed to keep you engaged and comfortable, whether you’re heading to the office or cruising along scenic backroads.
Safety Ratings and Warranty Coverage
Standard and Optional Safety Features
In recent years, driver-assistance technology has evolved from luxury add-ons to must-have features. The 2024 Kia Seltos excels here, offering a range of standard safety systems to protect you on daily commutes. Expect staples like anti-lock brakes, stability control, and multiple airbags in every trim. Many models also provide hill-start assist and electronic brake-force distribution to help you maintain control in challenging road conditions.
Higher-end trims can include features like forward collision avoidance, which can automatically apply brakes if the system detects an imminent crash. Blind-spot collision-avoidance tech can also alert you when another vehicle slips into that tricky zone outside your line of sight. Thanks to these offerings, the Seltos often earns favorable safety ratings from groups like the IIHS and NHTSA. If safety is near the top of your priority list, this crossover deserves a serious look.
Kia’s Renowned Warranty
One of Kia’s strongest selling points has long been its warranty coverage. By opting for a 2024 Seltos, you’ll likely benefit from a powertrain warranty that extends farther than many competitors. This coverage eases the usual worries about major repairs, particularly if you plan to keep your SUV for several years.
Beyond the powertrain warranty, you’ll also have a bumper-to-bumper plan that safeguards against defects in materials or workmanship. While it’s easy to focus on immediate costs like the purchase price, it’s equally important to account for potential repairs down the line. Kia’s warranty packages can offer a buffer against large expenses, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to delivering peace of mind along with your purchase.
2024 Kia Seltos Price Range, Trim Levels, and Value for Money
Kia Seltos Price Range
When you take a look at the 2024 Kia Seltos lineup, you’ll see that it stays within an approachable budget, even as you move into higher trims. The base LX trim starts around $24,390, making it ideal for you if you’re a cost-conscious shopper looking for a dependable crossover. As you progress through the trims, each level adds more advanced technology, extra comfort features, or design upgrades—all while keeping the overall price lower than many rivals in the subcompact SUV market.
While you’ll pay more for extras like sophisticated driver-assist systems, premium audio, or upgraded design elements, Kia ensures even the top models remain within reach. That means you can enjoy the convenience of all-wheel drive (AWD) or superior entertainment without straining your budget. Ultimately, it’s about pinpointing which features matter the most to you so you can strike the perfect balance between affordability and premium benefits.
Comparing Trim Levels in a Snapshot
Below is a quick reference table outlining each Seltos trim, its approximate starting price, and key features. Use this guide to determine which version best fits your individual preferences and budget.
| Trim | Starting Price (Approx.) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| LX | $24,390 | 2.0L four-cylinder engine, basic driver-assist suite, cloth upholstery, standard infotainment display, manual climate controls |
| S | $25,390 | Alloy wheels, larger touchscreen infotainment, upgraded seat materials, more exterior color options, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto |
| EX | $27,090 | Leather-wrapped interior accents, heated front seats, sunroof option, advanced safety features, bigger wheels |
| Nightfall Edition | $28,090 | Unique blacked-out exterior trim, 18-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, turbocharged engine availability, sportier design |
| SX | $29,990 | LED headlights, premium sound system, advanced driver-assistance technology, fully-loaded interior (heated front seats, leather trim) |
Kia Seltos vs. Competitors
Honda HR-V and Mazda CX-30
Whenever you compare the 2024 Kia Seltos with the Honda HR-V, you’ll notice both deliver reliability and strong resale value. However, the Seltos frequently edge ahead in the technology realm. You may find that Kia packs more standard features into lower trims than Honda does, making the Seltos particularly appealing if you don’t want to spend extra for modern conveniences.
The Mazda CX-30, on the other hand, leans heavily into sporty handling and premium design cues. If you love a car that exudes an almost luxury-level finish, the CX-30 might catch your eye. Even so, the Seltos stands out for its more spacious rear seat and superior cargo capacity. It’s a matter of choosing between Mazda’s refined ride and Kia’s versatility and value-driven approach.
If you’re still on the fence, you may also want to compare it to a solid used option. Check out our in-depth guide: Used Toyota RAV4: The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide for 2025 to see how it measures up in long-term value.
Looking for a different SUV option? Read the 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan Review: Better Than Last Year’s Model? for a close competitor in the same class.
Toyota C-HR, Hyundai Kona, and Chevrolet Trailblazer
If you’re eyeing the Toyota C-HR, you might appreciate Toyota’s reputation for longevity, but you’ll also notice that the C-HR’s rear-seat space is a bit cramped compared to the Kia Seltos interior. On the flip side, the 2024 Seltos does a better job of balancing style with user-friendly functionality.
Taking a step over to the Hyundai Kona, you’ll see some shared DNA since Kia and Hyundai operate under the same parent group. Both vehicles excel in urban maneuvers and come with advanced tech features. However, the Seltos generally offers a more upright stance and additional interior room. Lastly, the Chevrolet Trailblazer is another worthy contender, noted for its bold looks and respectable fuel economy. Nevertheless, the Seltos continues to stand firm with a better balance of cost, warranty coverage, and an overall tech-forward cabin.
If you’re considering a slightly larger, sportier SUV, discover what’s new in the 2025 Ford Explorer ST for a glimpse at future SUV tech.
Conclusion: Is the 2024 Kia Seltos Worth the Hype?
You might still be asking yourself, “Does it measure up to the high praise, or is it just another compact crossover among many?” From the features laid out—reliable engine options, contemporary cabin design, ample safety tech, and budget-friendly pricing—it’s fair to say the 2024 Kia Seltos holds its own. Kia has engineered it to appeal to a wide audience, targeting drivers who refuse to compromise on safety or style but also maintain an eye on affordability.
Pros at Glance
- Spacious Interior: Despite its size category, you get a practical layout for both passengers and cargo.
- Advanced Safety: Many trims provide driver-assistance features that can reduce stress and enhance peace of mind.
- Value Proposition: Kia’s pricing strategy and extended warranties often make the Seltos a cost-effective choice.
- Multiple Engine Options: Whether you want good fuel economy or a turbo boost, you have choices.
Potential Cons
- Performance Variations: The standard engine might not satisfy thrill-seekers who want maximum punch.
- Rear Legroom: While decent for a compact SUV, particularly tall backseat passengers may feel a bit snug on lengthy rides.
- Tech Tiers: Some desirable features (like premium audio or higher-end infotainment) might only appear on upper trims.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the 2024 Kia Seltos packs plenty of appeal into its compact frame. If you crave a dependable crossover vehicle with modern gadgetry and a well-appointed interior, it’s quite possible this model checks off most of your wish-list items.
Bonus reads: Want to explore something fun and unique? See what’s new in the 2025 Mini Cooper Convertible Unveiled with New Features or take a peek into the future with the 2026 Hyundai Palisade Redesign: What’s New?.