The 2023 Kia Sportage Just Upstaged the Seltos
A new SUV is here to change the game. The 2023 Kia Sportage just made one hot debut, and the Kia Seltos might need to be a little worried. While the 2022 Kia Seltos is fresh and affordable, the new Kia Sportage takes things a few steps further.
The 2023 Kia Sportage vs. the 2022 Kia Seltos
When the compact Kia Seltos arrived, people were wondering what the point of the Sportage was. It seemed like an outdated Kia SUV with bug eyes. But now the 2023 Kia Sportage is making a comeback in a big way.
And we mean big way literally. The Sportage grew by 7.1-inches in length. The wheelbase is also 3.4-inches longer. This means that it could have a smoother ride, and it’s larger than the Seltos with a brand new look.
Pricing for the 2023 Sportage hasn’t been revealed. It may cost more than the outgoing model, which starts at around $25,265. The 2022 Kia Seltos starts at about $22,490. Upgrading to the Sportage for more space shouldn’t break the bank.
What’s new for the 2023 Sportage?
The 2023 Kia Sportage only has one engine option for now. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine generates 187 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. This engine is also used in the Hyundai Tucson. Hybrid variants are expected to arrive later.
With the 2022 Kia Seltos, the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine provides 146 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque. You can upgrade to the turbocharged 1.6-liter engine for 175 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. We recommend going with the more powerful option.
Both of these Kia SUVs come with standard front-wheel drive. You can upgrade to all-wheel drive. If you opt for AWD with the Kia Sportage, then it also includes a 1.5-inch lift to enhance its off-roading capabilities.
The AWD system uses an electro-hydraulic coupler and automatic center-locking differential to distribute power between the front and rear wheels. We think that it could go further in the woods than the Seltos.
Speaking of off-roading, the Kia Sportage has a new X-Line trim. The Sportage X-Line includes beefier bumpers with satin chrome, glass-black side mirrors, a roof rack, raised roof rack rails, window surrounds, and 19-inch wheels.
The Sportage X-Pro goes beyond looks with 127-inch matte-black wheels wrapped in BFGoodrich all-terrain tires, new multi-terrain drive modes, LED foglights, optional LED headlights, a heated windshield, and wiper washer nozzles.
Does the Sportage have better tech?
Yes, the 2023 Kia Sportage has an available dual-screen panoramic display that combines two 12.3-inch screens. One is for the digital gauge cluster, and the other is for the multimedia system.
A new touchpad integrates climate and audio controls under the infotainment screen, and you can still use physical knobs. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. You can opt for a 360-degree camera system with a 3D bird’s-eye view. Plus, a wireless charging pad is available.
Standard safety features include forward collision warning with cyclist detection, automatic emergency braking, rear occupant alert, hands-on lean-centering steering, lane-keeping assistance, LED headlights with high-beam assist, and driver attention warning.
The 2022 Kia Seltos is still a great option to consider. However, it’s no longer the star. The 2023 Kia Sportage just stole the show with plenty of incredible upgrades. It will be available in the middle of 2022.
