Perhaps the most unsurprising debut of this year’s LA Auto Show is the new Kia Seltos, which enters the US market as a “right-sized” SUV with characterful looks and filled to the brim with features. The new Seltos will be available with two engine options: a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter with 146 HP and 132 lb-ft of torque paired to a CVT and a turbocharged 1.6-liter that pumps out 175 HP and 195 lb-ft of torque and comes only with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

In addition, Kia will offer the option of an AWD system that features torque vectoring and a center locking differential that can split torque equally between axles, depending on driving conditions. The range of the new Kia Seltos will include five trim levels: LX, EX, S 2.0L, S 1.6T and SX. Kia hasn’t revealed the full pricing details just yet, but they did mention that the base LX AWD model will start below US$ 22,000 and the turbocharged S model will have a similar starting price.


The Korean car maker is also making bold claims about interior space, with the Seltos said to be punching above its class, offering generous room in both rows, a reclining rear seat and an adjustable luggage board.

The new Kia crossover will also offer an abundance of technology, with highlights including a 10.25-inch HD infotainment system with satellite radio, telematics, as well as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, an eight-speaker Bose premium sound system, wireless phone charging and three USB ports.


 The ever important range of active safety systems include Blind Spot Collision Warning, Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, Highway Driving Assist, Smart Cruise Control with stop & go and more. Sales of the 2021 Seltos, which will slot between the Soul and the Sportage in Kia’s range, are expected to begin during the first quarter of 2020.