Crosstrek vs seltos showdown: the ultimate comparison of compact suvs
What To Know
- The Subaru Crosstrek comes well-equipped with a range of standard features, including an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a suite of advanced safety features such as lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control.
- The Seltos, on the other hand, is a more refined and urban-oriented vehicle, offering a stylish design, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a competitive price point.
- The Kia Seltos has slightly better fuel economy than the Subaru Crosstrek, with an EPA-estimated 29 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway compared to the Crosstrek’s 27 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
The subcompact crossover segment is fiercely competitive, with automakers vying for the attention of buyers seeking a blend of practicality, versatility, and affordability. Two of the most prominent players in this arena are the Subaru Crosstrek and the Kia Seltos. Both vehicles offer a compelling package, but which one emerges as the superior choice? Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison of the Subaru Crosstrek vs. Seltos to uncover their strengths, weaknesses, and the ultimate victor.
Design: Rugged vs. Refined
The Subaru Crosstrek exudes a rugged and adventurous aura, with its boxy silhouette, prominent wheel arches, and robust plastic cladding. In contrast, the Kia Seltos adopts a more refined and urban-oriented design, featuring sleek lines, a sloping roofline, and subtle chrome accents. While the Crosstrek is more suited for off-road escapades, the Seltos appeals to those seeking a stylish and sophisticated urban companion.
Performance: Power and Efficiency
Under the hood, the Subaru Crosstrek offers a choice of two naturally aspirated boxer engines: a 2.0-liter unit producing 152 horsepower and a 2.5-liter option generating 182 horsepower. The Kia Seltos, on the other hand, comes equipped with a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine that produces 175 horsepower. While the Seltos boasts a slight edge in power, the Crosstrek’s standard all-wheel drive system provides superior traction and stability in adverse conditions.
Interior: Function vs. Form
Inside the Subaru Crosstrek, function takes precedence over form, with a spacious and utilitarian cabin. The dashboard features large and legible controls, while the seats offer ample support and comfort. The Kia Seltos, on the other hand, boasts a more upscale and stylish interior, with soft-touch materials, a panoramic sunroof, and a user-friendly infotainment system.
Features and Technology: Convenience and Safety
The Subaru Crosstrek comes well-equipped with a range of standard features, including an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a suite of advanced safety features such as lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control. The Kia Seltos offers a comparable level of equipment, with a 10.25-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, and a comprehensive safety suite that includes blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
Off-Road Capabilities: Adventure vs. Urbanity
The Subaru Crosstrek is renowned for its off-road prowess, thanks to its standard all-wheel drive system, raised ground clearance, and X-Mode with Hill Descent Control. In contrast, the Kia Seltos is primarily designed for urban environments, with its front-wheel drive configuration and lack of off-road-specific features.
Price and Value: Affordability vs. Premium
The Subaru Crosstrek has a starting price of $23,645, while the Kia Seltos starts at $23,590. Both vehicles offer a range of trim levels and options, with the top-of-the-line Crosstrek Limited costing $35,945 and the Seltos SX Turbo topping out at $33,990. Overall, the Kia Seltos offers a slight edge in value for money, with a more comprehensive list of standard features at a comparable price point.
Summary: The Ultimate Verdict
The Subaru Crosstrek and Kia Seltos are both excellent subcompact crossovers, each with its own unique strengths and target audience. The Crosstrek is the ideal choice for those seeking a rugged and adventure-ready companion, with its exceptional off-road capabilities and spacious interior. The Seltos, on the other hand, is a more refined and urban-oriented vehicle, offering a stylish design, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a competitive price point.
Ultimately, the best choice between the Subaru Crosstrek and Kia Seltos depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize off-road performance and ruggedness, the Crosstrek is the clear winner. However, if you seek a stylish and well-equipped urban crossover at an affordable price, the Seltos is the more sensible choice.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Which vehicle has the better fuel economy?
A: The Kia Seltos has slightly better fuel economy than the Subaru Crosstrek, with an EPA-estimated 29 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway compared to the Crosstrek’s 27 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
Q: Which vehicle has a larger cargo capacity?
A: The Subaru Crosstrek has a slightly larger cargo capacity than the Kia Seltos, with 20.8 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats compared to the Seltos’ 18.3 cubic feet.
Q: Which vehicle offers a longer warranty?
A: Both the Subaru Crosstrek and Kia Seltos offer a comprehensive 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
