2024 Kia Seltos vs. 2023 Hyundai Kona: Which Compact SUV to Buy

St Louis drivers are turning to compact crossover SUVs now more than ever, and it’s easy to see why. Compact SUVs provide the capability and interior roominess of an SUV, along with the agility and performance of a sedan—making compact crossovers a great solution for daily commutes and weekend adventures in St Charles alike. In your research for a new crossover SUV, you’ve probably come across the new Kia Seltos and Hyundai Kona. Both of these models are capable and attractive, but which is right for your garage?

While both vehicles are a smart investment, you’ll find that the 2024 Kia Seltos offers a more traditional SUV shape, as well as nearly 20 cubic feet more cargo space than the Kona. Below, the team at Suntrup Kia South compares the Kia Seltos vs. Hyundai Kona dimensions, features, and more to help you make a good decision.

Kia Seltos vs. Hyundai Kona: Dimensions & Cargo Space

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:

2024 Kia Seltos Interior Dimensions

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

2023 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:

2024 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

2023 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

Kia Seltos vs. Hyundai Kona: Engines & Efficiency

The Seltos and the Kona come standard with the same naturally aspirated 2.0L four-cylinder engine, and even the same upgrade option—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 St Charles road conditions for improved efficiency.

You can expect either SUV to lower your fuel costs on the way to work, around town in Jefferson County, 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:

2024 Kia Seltos MPG Specs

• 2.0L 4-cylinder engine with FWD – 28 city/34 highway mpg
• 2.0L 4-cylinder engine with AWD – 27 city/31 highway mpg
• 1.6L turbo with AWD – 25 city/27 highway mpg

2023 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 St. Louis

Ready to take a closer look at the Kia Seltos or another of our new Kia models? Stop by our St. Louis dealership today for a test drive! We’re happy to answer any questions you have about Kia maintenance schedules, financing options, and more, so contact us today!