Growth in the automotive industry has been seen in the sub-compact SUV segment for the past few years. We have seen the arrival of a lot of interesting new models, so that the market is now full of proposals that are very interesting.
In 2018, we saw the Hyundai Kona show up; it was a hit. Last year, just before the pandemic, it was the Kia Seltos that made its debut. This one is doing the same thing, establishing itself as a must-have for buyers.
But what makes it more interesting than the Kona? Check out the following.
Unique platform
There are plenty of subcompact SUVs from Hyundai and Kia, and some take advantage of the same structures. In the case of the Seltos, we're talking about a model that enjoys its own platform, which allowed the designers to design an even more practical vehicle. This translates into more space everywhere (we'll come back to that), but above all, it translates into a unique driving experience.
Interior space
The Kia Seltos is longer and taller than the Hyundai Kona, which translates into a significant gain in interior space. This benefits on two levels. First, those invited to the second row will enjoy much more legroom. Specifically, we're talking 33.4 inches for the Kona and 38 inches for the Seltos.
Then, behind the second row, the trunk of the Seltos offers a volume of 752 liters; it is 544 liters with the Kona. And when the second-row seats are folded down, the difference is even more obvious; 1,778 liters with the Seltos, only 1,296 with the Kona.
Comfort
Finally, if the Kona offers good road handling, its comfort level could be more interesting. With the Seltos, this question is not asked, because the smoothness is greatly superior on the road, as is the soundproofing.
As for the engine, ironically, both models have the same components: a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine in the base model and a 1.6-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine in the more upscale versions.
Nevertheless, for the balance it offers and its more practical aspect, the Seltos remains a more sensible choice.
