The subcompact SUV segment has become so intensely popular that it’s seeing more models than ever enter the fray – all hoping to be considered by drivers looking for a reliable vehicle with a small footprint that also fares well in inclement weather and has the capability they need to turn weekends into adventures. The 2021 Kia Seltos is Kia’s run at this increasingly-popular class. It’s not, however, the only new model to chase this elusive buyer.
Debuting this year, the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer resurrects an old nameplate to offer drivers a vehicle that is slightly larger than the Chevrolet Trax, a vehicle the Seltos is significantly better than on paper. How does the slightly larger Trailblazer do against the upcoming 2021 Kia Seltos? Let’s find out!
2021 Kia Seltos |
Vs. |
2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer |
---|---|---|
2.0-liter 4-cylinder (146 hp) | Standard engine (horsepower) | 1.2-liter turbo (137 hp) |
1.6-liter turbo (175 hp) | Available engine (horsepower) | 1.3-liter turbo (155 hp) |
AWD | Standard drive type | FWD |
41.4 inches | Front-row legroom | 40.9 inches |
26.6 cubic feet/62.8 cubic feet | Cargo volume (seats up/folded) | 25.3 cubic feet/54.4 cubic feet |
8-inch standard | Infotainment screen | 7-inch standard |
10 years/100,000 miles | Engine/powertrain warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles |
Yes | Reclining rear seats? | No |
$21,990 | MSRP | $19,000 |
It’s pretty obvious to see which of the two models is set to become the champion of the class. While the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer offers a few compelling upgrades over the smaller Trax, namely its interior space and available 1.3-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder engine, the Kia Seltos offers more.
With the base model 2021 Kia Seltos, you get more interior space, more passenger room, standard all-wheel-drive capability, a larger infotainment screen and reclining rear seats.
The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer also can’t match Kia’s standard 5-year/40,000-mile advantage on the engine/powertrain warranty, which you’re less likely to need on the 2021 Kia Seltos than other manufacturers due to the brand’s status as J.D. Power mass-market reliability leaders.
Finally, although the Trailblazer starts with a lower MSRP, Friendly Kia pricing – the lowest in Tampa Bay – all but guarantees that the 2021 Kia Seltos will be a superior value when it arrives next month.
If you’re in the market for a small SUV with plenty of standard capability, you’ve found it in the 2021 Kia Seltos. Contact us today to schedule a test drive or reserve this small SUV.