2022 Kia Seltos vs. Hyundai Kona: Which Compact SUV to Buy

Compact crossovers are more popular than ever with Live Oak drivers, and it’s not at all difficult to see their appeal. Offering the capability and cargo space of an SUV along with the sprightly performance and agility of a sedan, small SUVs are the perfect medium for many drivers! If you’ve started your search, you’ve doubtless seen the same few models rising to the top—including Kia vs. Hyundai models like the Seltos and the Kona. So, which is right for you?

Both vehicles are a smart investment, but the Seltos offers a more traditional SUV shape and nearly 20 cubic feet more cargo space than the sedan-like Kona. Below, Rountree Moore Kia compares the Kia Seltos vs. Hyundai Kona dimensions, cargo space, and features to help you make the right call.

2022 Kia Seltos vs. Hyundai Kona: Cargo Space & Dimensions

We’ll start with perhaps the biggest difference between the Kis Seltos and the Hyundai Kona. Both slot neatly into the compact crossover segment in terms of size, but they each take a different approach when it comes to style. The Kona’s lower profile and smoother styling reflect the recent trend of more sedan-like crossovers, while Kia designers gave the Seltos a more traditional two-box SUV shape. Need lots of room for cargo? The Seltos has the advantage by a landslide of nearly 20 cubic feet:

Kia Seltos Interior Dimensions

• Headroom (front/rear) – 40.0 / 38.4 inches
• Max cargo space – 62.8 cubic feet

Hyundai Kona Interior Dimensions

• Headroom (front/rear) – 39.6 / 37.8 inches
• Max cargo space – 45.8 cubic feet

Kia Seltos vs. Hyundai Kona: Interior Features & Tech

Which model offers more tech for your money? We’d say that both get you your money’s worth—so the question is really about which SUV has the specific features that best fit your lifestyle. The Seltos fixes on clever storage solutions to maximize space inside the cabin and today’s most in-demand convenience and entertainment features:

Kia Seltos Interior Highlights

• Wireless charger
• 60/40 rear split-folding rear seat with 2-step recline
• Heated front Kia Seltos seats
• Rear privacy glass
• Rear camera display
• Under-rear-cargo-floor storage compartment
• 10.25-inch color touchscreen with navigation and SiriusXM® Satellite Radio
• 8-speaker Bose premium audio system with digital amplifier and dynamic speed compensation

Hyundai Kona Interior Highlights

• Digital Instrument Cluster
• Heated front seats
• Easy-Access Charging Port
• 10.25-inch Touchscreen Navigation
• Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
• Harman Kardon® Premium Audio with Clari-Fi® Music Restoration Technology

2022 Kia Seltos vs. Hyundai Kona: Engines & Efficiency

The Seltos and the Kona both come standard with a naturally aspirated 2.0L four-cylinder engine, and they also both offer a 1.6-liter turbo-four. Both base engines are paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission, which lends the tactile feel of a geared transmission thanks to dialed-in mandatory virtual ratios. Yet, because an IVT changes ratios quicker than a traditional automatic, power can be transmitted to the wheels much faster and more finely adjusted to Gainesville road conditions for improved efficiency.

You can expect either SUV to lower your fuel costs on the way to work, around town in Macclenny, or on long road trips. As you can see here, the Kia Seltos vs. Hyundai Kona MPG numbers are pretty close—with the Kona holding onto a slim edge:

Kia Seltos MPG Specs

• 2.0L 4-cylinder engine with FWD – 27/31/29 MPG
• 2.0L 4-cylinder engine with AWD – 27 city/31 highway MPG
• 1.6L turbo with FWD – 27 city/31 highway MPG
• 1.6L turbo with AWD – 25 city/30 highway MPG

Hyundai Kona MPG Specs

• 2.0L 4-cylinder engine with FWD – 30 city/35 highway MPG,
• 2.0L 4-cylinder engine AWD – 28 city/33 highway MPG
• 1.6L turbocharged GDI 4-cylinder engine with FWD – 29 city/35 highway MPG
• 1.6L turbocharged GDI 4-cylinder engine with AWD – 27 city/32 highway MPG

Test Drive a New Kia SUV for Sale in Lake City

If you’re ready for a closer look at Kia SUV models like the Seltos, stop by our dealership in Lake City today for a test drive! Our team is happy to answer any questions you may have about Kia maintenance schedules, leasing vs. buying options, and more.