More shoppers are looking for subcompact crossover SUVs because of the practicality and versatility that this vehicle type offers for couples or small families. Gone are the days when everyone sought a midsize or full-size SUV. Rising gas prices and busy roads have assured the rise of the subcompact and compact crossover SUV segments.
The 2023 Hyundai Kona and 2023 Kia Seltos are two competitors for the title of best subcompact crossover SUV. They’re closely related, as they share the same platform and some powertrains. The Kona entered the North American market in 2018, with the Seltos arriving in 2021.
Let’s compare the Kona vs. Seltos in terms of interior appointments, performance, and safety systems on offer. And if you'd like to check out the new Kona in person, the friendly team at Bob Brady Hyundai in Decatur, IL, can help.
Bearing in mind that the 2023 Kona is over 6 inches shorter than the 2023 Seltos, it still offers impressively spacious and comfortable accommodations for up to five adults. You’ll also appreciate the standard automatic climate control, 8-inch or 10.3-inch touch-screen infotainment system, and premium finishes on touchpoints that are standard across the range.
The 2023 Seltos fights back with a larger 26 cubic foot trunk, but it’s unlikely that the average user of a 2023 Kona is going to find the vehicle’s 19.2 cubic foot space wanting, especially when the Kona offers an appreciably smaller road footprint, aiding driving and parking as a result.
Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are standard on both models, as you’d expect. They also have ample wired charging ports, standard AM/FM radio, AUX input, MP3 playback, and ample storage.
The entry-level powertrain on the 2023 Kona is a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder with 147 horsepower and a CVT gearbox. The next level of performance is a 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder with 195 horsepower and a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox that offers quick and sporty shifts, aided by a manual mode.
Thrill seekers will love the Kona N, with its 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder that punches out 276 horsepower, partnered with an 8-speed DCT gearbox with steering-mounted paddle shifters. For those who want to experience the silence of electric motoring, there’s the Kona Electric, which comes with a 201-horsepower motor and a 258-mile range as estimated by the EPA.
In comparison, the 2032 Seltos range comprises just two powertrains that are identical to the first two on the 2023 Kona. These are the 2.0-liter 4-cylinder with 147 horsepower or the 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder with 195 horsepower. Transmissions remain a CVT or DCT, respectively.
The 2023 Kona and 2023 Seltos come with identical safety specifications. They’ve each got eight airbags, brake assist, stability control, child safety locks, traction control, daytime running lamps, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist as standard.
The 2023 Kona and 2023 Seltos put up a close fight for the title of best subcompact crossover SUV, which isn't surprising given their commonalities, shared platforms, and powertrains. However, the 2023 Kona offers a better value proposition, a broader range of powertrains, and a more usable vehicle in urban areas, without sacrificing much in terms of practicality. If you'd like to find out for yourself, drop by Bob Brady Hyundai in Decatur, IL, and test drive the new Kona.
