Things we like
- Overall bang for buck
- Good chassis balance
- Spacious interior
Not so much
- Some rough plastics throughout cabin
- Halogen headlights
- Frustrating speed limit assist
Kia has been steadily climbing the ranks in the small SUV segment since arriving in Australia at the end of 2019. Its 2023 facelift brings a fresher look and new tech, including an updated infotainment suite.
Designed with urban explorers in mind, the Seltos Sport combines style, functionality, and a touch of luxury.
But Kia isn't alone in introducing a hatchback or sedan upgrade into a segment already bursting with options, so let's take a look at what the South Korean manufacturer is offering.
Pricing and features
Positioned as a mid-tier option in the Seltos lineup, the Sport offers a lot of bang for your buck. Priced from $32,700 before on roads the Sport is equipped with a 2.0L CVT engine producing 110kW and 180Nm.
Choosing the Seltos Sport will get you:
2023 Kia Seltos Sport features | |
---|---|
17-inch alloy wheels | Roof rails |
Climate control | Satellite navigation |
Cloth upholstery | Shark fin antenna |
DAB+ digital radio, wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Six-speaker stereo |
Dual 10.25-inch central infotainment and digital instrument displays | Solar Glass windscreen and front doors |
Halogen (projector-style) headlights | Sounds of Nature ambient audio |
Manual handbrake | Space-saver spare wheel |
One-touch driver window control | Two USB-C ports in second-row |
Premium steering wheel and gear shifter | USB-A and USB-C ports in front console |
The Sport+ is available for an extra $3100 for the same engine, or an extra $6,600 for the 1.6L turbo 8-speed auto AWD option, with an increased output of 146kW and 265Nm.
Jumping up into a Sport+ model will get you an extra array of features including:
2023 Kia Seltos Sport+ features | |
---|---|
Heated side mirrors | Auto-dimming rear-view mirror |
Privacy glass | LED interior lights |
AEB cyclist avoidance and junction turning assist | Illuminated vanity mirrors |
Adaptive cruise control | Front centre console armrest sliding function |
Keyless entry and push button start | Rear centre armrest |
Electric park brake w/ auto hold | Cloth and artificial leather upholstery |
Safety
The entire Seltos range is covered by a 5-star ANCAP rating, including an 85% Adult Occupant Protection score.
Kia's commitment to safety is propelled by features like lane-keep assist, rear-cross traffic avoidance assist, AEB and driver attention alert coming standard.
Also standard are key features like reversing cameras, rear seatbelt reminders and front and rear parking sensors – all impressive inclusions throughout the entire range.
Key rivals
The compact SUV segment in Australia is a hotly contested space, with several models vying for the top spot, including mid-spec models such as:
There's no shortage of small SUVs in Australia, so styling and design rank highly on reasons for purchase. It's up to you if the Seltos Sport or Sport+ ticks your visual boxes.
Should I put it on my shortlist?
The 2023 Kia Seltos Sport/Sport+ is a compelling option for those looking for a compact SUV that doesn't compromise on features, especially safety.
Its blend of style, space, and tech makes it a strong contender in its segment.
While there are areas for improvement (as there are every car), its overall package and affordable pricing versus key competitors make it a vehicle worth considering for your next purchase.
Things we like
- Overall bang for buck
- Good chassis balance
- Spacious interior
Not so much
- Some rough plastics throughout cabin
- Halogen headlights
- Frustrating speed limit assist
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