If you’re in the market for a new SUV, Kia offers some great options. Two options are the 2022 Kia Niro and the 2022 Kia Seltos. At first glance, these vehicles look so similar that you may think it doesn’t matter which you choose. There are some big differences. However, that may make one a better fit than the other. Below, we compare the two vehicles against one another to see how they stack up in some key areas.
2022 Kia Niro vs. Kia Seltos: Performance
First, let’s look at the performance specs for both of these SUVs. The standard powertrain option on the 2022 Kia Niro is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine combines an electric motor and a six-speed automatic transmission to yield 139 horsepower. With this setup, you can expect to go from zero to 60 in approximately eight seconds. The Kia Niro has smooth handling, making it an excellent SUV for driving in urban or suburban areas.
For the Seltos, you get one of two engine options. The first is a 2.0-liter engine that produces 146 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. The second option is a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine that produces 170 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. The Seltos offers a slightly stronger engine performance when comparing the two SUVs.
2022 Kia Niro vs. Kia Seltos: Fuel Efficiency
Another important factor to consider is the fuel efficiency of the two SUVs. While SUVs are not typically known for their fuel efficiency, both the Niro and Seltos deliver fairly good EPA ratings. With the standard powertrain in the 2022 Kia Niro, the EPA estimates you get around 53 mpg in the city and 48 mpg on the highway. There’s also a plug-in hybrid version with the same powertrain but an improved battery. With this battery, the EPA estimates you’ll get around 105 mpg and be able to drive up to 26 miles on electric power alone.
The standard powertrain option on the 2022 Kia Seltos achieves an efficiency rating of 29 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The fuel efficiency for the upgraded engine drops a little, coming in at 25 mpg and 30 mpg for city and highway driving, respectively. Thanks to its internal electric motor, the Kia Niro is a clear winner regarding fuel efficiency, especially if you opt for the plug-in hybrid version. However, the 2022 Kia Seltos still offers a reasonable amount of efficiency compared with other SUVs in its class.
2022 Kia Niro vs. Kia Seltos: Interior
No matter what vehicle you choose, it’s important it comes with a comfortable interior. After all, this is where you’ll be spending all your time. With the 2022 Kia Niro, you’ll enjoy a comfortable and spacious interior. The basic trim is mostly plastic and cloth, but you can upgrade to leather. With the Kia Seltos, you’ll enjoy a premium cloth interior and features such as reclining rear and heated front seats.
As for cargo space, the Kia Niro offers a decent amount of space behind the back row of seats. Unlike other hybrid vehicles, the Niro was designed as a hybrid from the start, meaning the battery doesn’t take up space in the storage area, resulting in more room for you. That being said, you’ll get more cargo space from the 2022 Kia Seltos due to its larger size overall. The Kia Seltos also comes with a dual-level cargo floor, which provides more storage space for your belongings.
In terms of detailed interior features, both vehicles offer infotainment systems, but the 2022 Kia Niro provides an optional dashboard navigation system, allowing for optimized performance based on route analysis. Furthermore, the interior comparison could include insights into available driver assistance features, interior design aesthetics, comfort features, and any unique storage solutions in both vehicles.
2022 Kia Niro vs. Kia Seltos: Entertainment
What good is driving a new vehicle if it doesn’t have some fun entertainment features? Worry not, as the Kia Niro and the Kia Seltos have plenty of features to make your drives more enjoyable. For both these vehicles, the entertainment offering starts with an 8-inch touch screen infotainment system that easily connects to mobile devices through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto so you can stream your favorite media sources, such as Pandora, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app.
One feature that’s available with the 2022 Kia Niro but not the Kia Seltos is the dashboard navigation system. This system can analyze your route and optimize your vehicle’s performance accordingly. For example, it can store the extra battery when it detects a large hill ahead. With this SUV, not only can you find some great places in your nearby area, but you can also save gas while you’re getting there.
In addition to the entertainment features mentioned, a deeper dive into technology offerings such as available sound systems, USB and charging ports, voice control features, and any advanced driver assistance technologies unique to each vehicle could be beneficial.
2022 Kia Niro vs. Kia Seltos: Safety
Finally, there are safety features. The 2022 Kia Niro and the 2022 Kia Seltos come with many of the latest safety features. Some of the features you get with both vehicles are:
- Automatic high beams.
- Automated emergency braking.
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology.
- Forward-collision warning.
- Lane-keeping assist.
- Blind-spot monitoring.
- Rear cross-traffic alert.
However, the standard safety features depend on which trim you select for each vehicle. It’s a good idea to explore each trim level carefully to make sure it has the safety features you want.
In addition to the listed safety features, providing information regarding the warranty coverage and reliability ratings for both vehicles could give buyers confidence in their purchase decision.
Which Kia Model Is Right for You?
These two Kia models have many similarities, but there are enough differences that may make one better suited to you than the other. Generally speaking, if you want a smaller and more fuel-efficient SUV, you’ll probably prefer the 2022 Kia Niro, which has a starting MSRP of $24,690. On the other hand, if you want additional space and something more affordable, consider the 2022 Kia Seltos, which has a starting MSRP of $22,590.
Buying Your Next Kia at Huffines Kia McKinney
Not sure which model you should get? If you live in McKinney, Huffines Kia is here to help. We’ll answer any questions you have about these two models and take you out for a test drive. To get started, contact us today to schedule an appointment at our dealership. Also, be sure to check out our latest new vehicle specials or get pre-approved for financing before visiting us.