Why the 2024 Kia Seltos SX is the Best Value in the SUV Market

The SUV market is booming, but not everyone can afford to spend a fortune on a new vehicle. That's why Cars.com conducted the 2023 Affordable SUV Challenge, where six popular subcompact SUVs priced around $30,000 competed for the title of the best value in the segment. The winner of this challenge was the 2024 Kia Seltos SX, a stylish, spacious, and fun-to-drive SUV that offers plenty of features and performance for the money.

What Makes the 2024 Kia Seltos SX Stand Out?

The 2024 Kia Seltos SX is not a new model, but it has received some significant updates that make it even more attractive and competitive than before. The exterior has been refreshed with a wider grille, updated headlights and taillights, and a rear light bar that connects the taillamps. The interior has also been upgraded with a new dual-screen infotainment system that features a 10.25-inch touchscreen and a 7-inch digital instrument cluster. The cabin is roomy and comfortable, with faux-leather upholstery, a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, and a wireless smartphone charging pad.

But the most notable change comes under the hood, where the Kia Seltos SX gets a new turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 195 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with a smooth and responsive eight-speed automatic transmission that replaces the previous seven-speed dual-clutch unit. The result is a noticeable improvement in acceleration, performance, and drivability. The Kia Seltos SX can sprint from zero to 60 mph in 6.9 seconds, which is faster than any of its rivals in the challenge.

The new Kia Seltos SX also comes standard with all-wheel drive, which enhances its traction and stability in various road conditions. The SUV also has a nicely balanced ride and handling, with a firm but not harsh suspension, precise steering, and strong brakes. The Seltos SX also offers three drive modes (Normal, Sport, and Smart) that adjust the throttle response, transmission shift points, and steering effort according to the driver's preference.

How Does the 2024 Kia Seltos SX Compare to Its Competitors?

The 2024 Kia Seltos SX faced some tough competition in the 2023 Affordable SUV Challenge, but it managed to beat them all with its overall excellence and value. Here's how it stacked up against the other five contenders:

2024 Subaru Crosstrek Premium: The runner-up in the challenge was the Subaru Crosstrek Premium, which impressed the judges with its spacious interior, standard all-wheel drive, off-road capability, and excellent safety ratings. However, it fell short in terms of powertrain refinement, infotainment technology, and fuel economy.
2024 Chevrolet Trax Activ: The third-place finisher was the Chevrolet Trax Activ, which surprised the judges with its lively handling, generous cargo space, and user-friendly infotainment system. However, it was let down by its outdated design, cheap interior materials, noisy engine, and need for advanced safety features.
2023 Honda HR-V EX-L: The fourth-place finisher was the Honda HR-V EX-L, which offered a versatile interior layout, good visibility, and smooth ride quality. However, it needed to be improved by its sluggish acceleration, dull handling, dated infotainment system, and high price tag.
2023 Volkswagen Taos SE: The fifth-place finisher was the Volkswagen Taos SE, which boasted a refined powertrain, upscale interior quality, and comprehensive safety features. However, it was criticized for its cramped rear seat, small cargo area, stiff ride comfort, and bland styling.
2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid S: The last-place finisher was the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid S, which delivered outstanding fuel economy (40 mpg combined), reliable reputation, and standard safety features. However, it was panned for its slow acceleration, boring driving dynamics, low-rent cabin, and limited cargo space.

How Much Does the 2024 Kia Seltos SX Cost?

The new Kia Seltos SX has a starting price of $29,090, which includes destination charges. This makes it one of the most affordable SUVs in its class, especially considering how much equipment and performance it offers. The only optional feature on the Seltos SX is a sunroof, which costs an extra $700. The total price of our test vehicle was $29,790, which is still well below the average price of a new SUV in September 2023 ($48,818).

The 2024 Kia Seltos SX also comes with a generous warranty package, which covers the powertrain for 10 years or 100,000 miles, the basic vehicle for five years or 60,000 miles, and the roadside assistance for five years or 60,000 miles. This gives buyers peace of mind and reduces the cost of ownership over the long term.

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Why Should You Buy the 2024 Kia Seltos SX?

The 2024 Kia Seltos SX won the 2023 Affordable SUV Challenge by Cars.com because it offers the best combination of style, space, features, performance, and value in the subcompact SUV segment. It is a well-rounded and well-equipped SUV that can meet most buyers' needs and wants when looking for a practical, reliable, and fun vehicle that won't break the bank. If you are in the market for a new SUV and have a budget of around $30,000, you should definitely check out the 2024 Kia Seltos SX at your nearest Kia dealer. You won't be disappointed.