2021 Kia Seltos review
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
From $18,998*
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All Kia Seltos years
Not sure what year to select? Learn about each Kia Seltos generation from 2021 to 2026
2021 Kia Seltos trims
Curious how Kia Seltos trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similaritiesLX:
- 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:
- Includes all features available on the S
- Leather Seats
- Sunroofs
- Power Seats
- Smart Key
- View our Kia Seltos EX inventory
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
Kia Seltos features and specs
Curious how Kia Seltos trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities
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
- Heated Mirrors
- Lane Departure Warning
- Leatherette & Cloth
- Overhead Airbags
- Power Locks
- Power Mirrors
- Power Windows
- Rear Defroster
- Rear View Camera
- Side Airbags
- Traction Control
- Full Roof Rack
- 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"
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
The 2021 Kia Seltos is available in multiple trims, each with its own estimated fuel economy, here are the EPA estimates for each trim:
- SX: 25 MPG City and 30 MPG Highway
- LX: 27 MPG City and 31 MPG Highway
- EX: 27 MPG City and 31 MPG Highway
- S: 29 MPG City and 34 MPG Highway
The 2021 Kia Seltos has received an average 4.4 out of 5 stars from our customers. If you're in the market for a 2021 Kia Seltos, check out reviews from customers just like you. 2021 Kia Seltos Reviews.
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We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
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