Skip to main content

5 Reasons the Kia Seltos Is Better than the Honda HR-V

You might be wondering why we keep comparing Kias and other random brands to Hondas. If so, the answer is simple: It’s fun! That, and we know that Hondas are amazing cars that sell themselves, so truthfully, you probably know what you’re getting into if you buy one of those. We’re here to show you …

You might be wondering why we keep comparing Kias and other random brands to Hondas. If so, the answer is simple: It’s fun! That, and we know that Hondas are amazing cars that sell themselves, so truthfully, you probably know what you’re getting into if you buy one of those.

We’re here to show you a different possibility. We’re here to show you what life would be like if you didn’t follow the herd. And if you’re the type to choose the red pill over the blue pill while taking the road less traveled, then you might actually look into buying a subcompact SUV like the Kia Seltos. If that might be the case, then here are five reasons why the Kia Seltos is better than the Honda HR-V.

Contrasting roof colors

When it comes to the subcompact SUV class, styling is of great importance. The Honda HR-V was definitely unique when it debuted four years ago. For example, its coupe-like design with hidden rear door handles gave it a sporty look.

But that was four years ago, and this is now. The Honda HR-V still looks largely the same and the newer Kia Seltos adds a much more dashing touch to the class with its available contrasting roof colors. Sure, it’s a simple color scheme touch that has been done for ages, but the Seltos wears it well and we think it looks sharper than the aging HR-V.

2021 Seltos

Better engine choices

The Honda HR-V is powered by the same 141-horsepower, 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that it’s always had. Don’t get us wrong, it’s a great engine, however, Honda could put forth a little more effort.

The Kia Seltos, on the other hand, is available with two different engine choices: a 2.0-liter, 146-horsepower engine, or a 175-horsepower, 1.6-liter engine. The former comes with a CVT transmission and the latter with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, which is a much better choice than the sole CVT transmission on the HR-V.

2021 Seltos

(Almost) standard all-wheel-drive

The Honda HR-V comes standard with a front-wheel drivetrain, while an all-wheel drivetrain is available. It’s great that buyers have the choice, however, it would be even better if the all-wheel-drive feature as standard.

On the Kia Seltos, that is almost the case. The Seltos is available in both front and all-wheel drive, however, only the S trim level comes in front-wheel drive. Which means that all-wheel drive is standard on all the other trims. It’s weird, we know, but it’s also convenient and we like it.

2021 Seltos

Better warranty

When you buy a new car, you get a new car warranty. In this case, when you buy an HR-V, you get a 3-year/36,000 mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

But when you buy a Seltos, you get a 10-year/100,000-mile warranty. We’re not mathematicians or anything, but that sounds a lot better.

2021 Seltos

Better infotainment

The Honda HR-V comes standard with a 5-inch screen on the base model, however, it can be upgraded to a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple Carplay and Android on the higher trim levels.

The Kia Seltos comes standard with a crisp, 8-inch display on the lower trims, which can be upgraded to a much-bigger 10.25-inch display on the higher trims. According to Kelley Blue Book, the display is reminiscent of an Audi. Take that, Honda!

2021 Seltos

Think differently

While these five features might not make you buy a Kia Seltos, we hope they give you a little insight as to what the Korean subcompact SUV has to offer. It might not be a Honda, but it sure does give the HR-V a run for its money – and if you choose the more-affordable Seltos, then it might help you keep some money in your pocket.