2022 Kia Seltos Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

The world of subcompact SUVs continues to grow and gain new competitors regularly. The desirability of these vehicles for families with fast-paced lifestyles and consumers in search of a dynamic vehicle is at its highest point. The 2022 Kia Seltos is a subcompact SUV model that is commonly considered by those in search of a vehicle to purchase within this specific market segment. It stands out from the traditional small SUVs that buyers are familiar with and provides fresh features to enjoy. The 2022 Kia Seltos also has a charismatic appearance that is complimented by sporty aesthetics mixed with some upscale accents.

What's New for 2022?

A few upgrades to special edition Kia Seltos models emerge in this SUV's 2022 model year, but the more significant change we see in this vehicle is the integration of a wide array of driver assistive features that are incorporated as standard amenities. Automatic high-beam headlamps, lane-keep assist, and automated emergency braking, which is almost always available as an upgrade, make their appearance as standard features in the 2022 Kia Seltos. Also standard for this model year is a large 10.3-inch touchscreen for the Seltos' infotainment system.

Other changes for 2022 pertain to the trim levels and models of the 2022 Kia Seltos. Automatic climate control, as well as remote start functionality, appear in the LX trim. A Plum interior color scheme and flat-bottom steering wheel also make their way into the SX trim. An all-new Nightfall Edition is found as an option for the 2022 Kia Seltos, which includes prominent black accents that make a bold statement.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2022 Kia Seltos – The Pros

As you can see, there are many different approaches the 2022 Kia Seltos takes to appeal to its consumer base. From fun and functional to savvy and sophisticated, there are many personas of the 2022 Kia Seltos. The attributes listed below are top advantages we have found the 2022 Kia Seltos to offer regularly.

1. Two Engine Selections for Customers to Choose From.

Subcompact SUVs are notorious for offering a single engine option, but the 2022 Kia Seltos provides a bit more variety under its hood. A 2.0-liter engine comes standard and can produce up to 146hp for this model. An upgrade to a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine provides access to 175hp production. The turbocharged engine upgrade of the Kia Seltos is a favorite option, due to its capability and quickness.

2. Quick Acceleration That is Perfect for Swift City Travel.

The 2022 Kia Seltos packs a punch when it comes to speed. Instantaneous acceleration is enabled by the turbocharged engine and seven-speed automatic transmission, making this vehicle an ideal choice for city drivers looking for swiftness with stability in their travels. Going from 0-60mph takes just 6.6 seconds, giving speedy yet safe performance on any urban journey.

3. Sharp Handling That Exceeds Expectations for an SUV Model.

SUVs aren't typically noticed for their agility, because of their sheer size and wheelbase. However, the 2022 Kia Seltos takes advantage of its compact stature and utilizes it to improve its responsiveness to driver commands and ability to change direction quickly. When its sharp handling is paired with its smooth suspension, the ride within the 2022 Kia Seltos is rather pleasant.

4. Availability of Brand Signature Kia Drive Wise Safety Feature Suite.

Some buyers enjoy picking and choosing the safety features they want in their vehicle. Yet, others prefer a cohesive suite of safety features. Following the latter rule, the 2022 Kia Seltos offers Kia Drive Wise, which is an integral suite of driver assistive safety features that promotes collision mitigation and accident prevention. Included in this suite are features like automatic emergency braking, blind spot detection, and rear cross traffic collision avoidance, among many others.

5. Surprisingly Rugged and Capable of Off-Road Exploration.

The 2022 Kia Seltos is an impressive combination of athleticism and adaptability. Boasting a turbocharged engine, adaptive all-wheel drive paired with corner control technology for maximum maneuvering capabilities, as well as 7.3 inches of ground clearance to explore off road conditions - this SUV will take wherever you want to go in style.

6. Outstanding Comfort in the Rear Seating Area.

The Kia Seltos makes seating comfortable throughout its cabin. Paying as much attention to passengers in the rear as it does to front-row passengers, the Kia Seltos implements some attributes we haven't seen in rear seating areas in other models. Reclining second-row seats are a top amenity, while a rear AC vent and USB charging port come in next.

7. Signature Two Tone Exterior Color Scheme.

Setting itself apart from the competitive at first glance, the 2022 Kia Seltos incorporates a two tone exterior color scheme. Painting the roof a different color from its body, this color design gives the Kia Seltos a distinguished outside look that softens its rugged features.

8. All-Wheel Drive with Lock Mode Enhances Travel on All Surfaces.

Designed to easily travel off-road, the 2022 Kia Seltos incorporates a few features that make all-terrain travel easier. All-Wheel Drive with Lock Mode is operated by the touch of a button and disperses power equally between the front and rear wheels. This 50/50 power dispersion provides better control and traction during travel on questionable or challenging terrain.

9. UVO App Link Compatibility for Instant Access to Your Kia.

Remote access to vehicles is becoming more popular, and the 2022 Kia Seltos already has this tech integration in place. Identified as the Kia UVO App Link, this suite offers remote features, such as lock/unlock and remote start, UVO Voice Assist for hands-free direction, and Amazon Alexa and Google Home connectivity.

10. Split Screen Navigation Usage.

You no longer must choose between exiting your navigation screen on the infotainment system or changing your music in the 2022 Kia Seltos. This subcompact SUV offers a split screen in its LX trim, so you can easily do both at the same time.

Reasons Not to Buy a 2022 Kia Seltos – The Cons

1. Extra Refinement Would Be Helpful in the Base Powertrain.

The base engine of the 2022 Kia Seltos is adequate, but it lacks the refinement we see in entry-level competitor models. Buyers do have an upgrade option to a turbocharged engine, but we would like to see additional effort put into the development of a better base model engine.

2. Seven-Speed Automatic Transmission Occasionally Stumbles in Shifting Gears.

The reliable 2022 Kia Seltos seldom has issues with acceleration but changing gears on its way there can be bothersome. The seven-speed automatic transmission that is paired with this SUV's turbocharged engine could use a little work. Nothing too drastic, but a bit of improvement would be helpful.

3. Can Be Stiff When Traveling Over Bumpy Terrain.

Overall, the suspension of the 2022 Kia Seltos is great when traveling on highways. Yet, when the road ahead becomes bumpy you will certainly feel it in the cabin.

 

Conclusion

The 2022 Kia Seltos is the perfect SUV for those needing both off-road capability and reliable daily travel. This subcompact offers customizable power, so you can tailor it to perfectly suit your needs; yet at its core lies an uncompromised focus on comfort and safety which all drivers appreciate. Versatility comes as a standard with this modern ride - allowing you to explore whatever path life throws at you.