The 2023 Kia Seltos enters the subcompact SUV arena as a confident carryover model that doubles down on what has already made it successful. Rather than reinventing itself, Kia focused on refinement quieter cabin acoustics, broader availability of advanced safety features, and continued emphasis on value. In a segment where many competitors chase novelty year after year, the Seltos takes a more mature approach, strengthening its core appeal instead of diluting it.
Positioned between the Soul and Sportage, the Seltos remains one of the most versatile options in Kia’s U.S. SUV lineup. Overseen by Kia America, it continues to represent the brand in the highly competitive Entry CUV segment with a blend of rugged styling, efficient packaging, and technology that feels current rather than experimental.
Familiar Design, Purposeful Presence
At a glance, the 2023 Seltos looks much like the model that came before it and that’s intentional. The upright stance, boxy proportions, and short overhangs give it a tougher look than many rivals that lean toward softer, car-like shapes. The signature tiger-nose grille, black cladding around the wheel arches, and available roof rails reinforce its adventure-ready image without making it feel oversized.
The Nightfall Edition continues to be the visual standout. Dark exterior accents, exclusive alloy wheels, and a more aggressive aesthetic give it a sportier personality that appeals to buyers who want something edgier than a traditional commuter SUV. It’s a design that feels confident rather than flashy, which helps the Seltos age gracefully.
A Cabin That Maximizes Space and Comfort
Step inside, and the Seltos immediately stands out for how roomy it feels relative to its footprint. With a wheelbase of 103.5 inches, it offers generous headroom and legroom in both rows, making it comfortable for adults even on longer drives. The cargo area is another strong point, with up to 62.8 cubic feet of space available when the rear seats are folded—among the best in its class.
Higher trims offer a 10.25-inch touchscreen paired with a digital instrument cluster, creating a clean, modern interface that’s intuitive to use. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are seamlessly integrated, and physical controls for climate and audio remain easy to reach, avoiding the frustration of fully touch-based systems.
During a recent multi-hour drive in a 2023 Seltos SX, the most noticeable improvement wasn’t visual—it was how calm the cabin felt at highway speeds, with reduced road and wind noise making conversation and music far more enjoyable.
Powertrain Options That Match Different Drivers
The 2023 Kia Seltos continues to offer two distinct engine choices. The standard 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder produces 146 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission. It’s tuned for efficiency and smoothness, making it well-suited for daily commuting and city driving.
For those who want more responsiveness, the available 1.6-liter turbocharged engine delivers 175 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque through a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. This setup feels noticeably more energetic, especially during highway merging or when climbing hills, and pairs well with the available all-wheel drive system.
Fuel economy remains competitive, with front-wheel-drive models reaching up to an EPA-estimated 31 mpg combined, while AWD versions strike a balance between traction and efficiency.
Expanded Safety Where It Counts
One of the most meaningful updates for 2023 is the wider availability of advanced driver assistance features. Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist-Rear and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance are now standard on more trims, including S FWD and S AWD models. This move brings the Seltos in line with buyer expectations as safety technology becomes less of a luxury and more of a baseline requirement.
Across the lineup, drivers benefit from systems such as Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Driver Attention Warning, and available Highway Driving Assist on higher trims. These features work quietly in the background, offering reassurance without feeling intrusive.
How It Fits in the Competitive Landscape
The subcompact SUV segment is crowded, with rivals like the Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX-30, Subaru Crosstrek, and Honda HR-V all vying for attention. What sets the Seltos apart is its balance. While some competitors focus heavily on sporty handling or off-road credibility, the Seltos blends interior space, technology, available turbo performance, and AWD capability into a cohesive package.
A brief comparison highlights this positioning:
| Area | 2023 Kia Seltos | Typical Competitor |
|---|---|---|
| Cargo Space | Up to 62.8 cu. ft. | Often less |
| Engine Choices | NA + Turbo | Usually one |
| AWD Availability | Multiple trims | Limited |
| Standard Safety | Broad coverage | Often partial |
| Interior Tech | Large displays available | Smaller screens |
Instead of excelling in just one category, the Seltos performs well across many, which is why it appeals to such a wide audience—from first-time SUV buyers to those downsizing from larger vehicles.
Real-World Versatility in Action
Consider a common scenario: a weekday commute through city traffic followed by a weekend trip out of town. The Seltos’ compact dimensions make it easy to park and maneuver during the week, while its available AWD and generous cargo space handle gravel roads, sports gear, or luggage with ease on the weekend. It’s this adaptability that gives the Seltos real-world credibility beyond spec sheets.
Value-Oriented Pricing Strategy
For 2023, pricing remains competitive, with entry models starting in the low-$20,000 range and fully equipped turbo trims staying under $30,000 before destination. This pricing strategy reinforces the Seltos’ reputation as a value-focused SUV that doesn’t feel stripped down, even at lower trim levels.
Rather than forcing buyers to climb the trim ladder just to access essential features, the Seltos delivers a strong baseline and lets higher trims focus on refinement and performance.
Related: 2022 Kia Seltos Overview
Conclusion
The 2023 Kia Seltos proves that incremental improvement can be just as impactful as a full redesign. With enhanced safety availability, improved cabin refinement, flexible powertrain options, and one of the most spacious interiors in its class, it continues to be a standout in the subcompact SUV segment. For drivers seeking a well-rounded, practical, and confidently styled SUV that fits modern lifestyles, the Seltos remains a smart and compelling choice.
FAQs
Is the 2023 Kia Seltos a new redesign?
No. The 2023 model is a carryover with targeted improvements in safety feature availability and cabin noise reduction.
Does the 2023 Seltos offer all-wheel drive?
Yes. AWD is available on multiple trims, including turbocharged versions.
Which engine is better for everyday driving?
The 2.0-liter engine is ideal for efficiency-focused commuting, while the turbo engine suits drivers who want stronger acceleration.
How does the Seltos compare to rivals?
It offers more cargo space, broader safety coverage, and better trim-level flexibility than many competitors.
Who should consider the 2023 Kia Seltos?
Drivers who want compact SUV practicality, modern tech, and confident design without moving into a larger or more expensive vehicle.
