Skip to main content

Experiencing fatigue, stiffness, and discomfort on long car trips isn’t uncommon. However, some vehicles provide high-level comfort, particularly SUVs. But you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a relaxing ride. One of the most comfortable SUVs costs only $23,000: the affordable 2023 Kia Seltos. This subcompact crossover even won an award from U.S. News for its cozy interior.

The 2023 Kia Seltos is 1 of the most comfortable SUVs in 2023

Dashboard and front seats in 2023 Kia Seltos
2023 Kia Seltos | Kia

You might assume you have to pay a considerable amount for an SUV to enjoy a comfortable ride. That’s especially true for luxury SUVs, boasting premium features, opulent cabins, and detailed craftsmanship. Also, high inflation has sent the price of new vehicles skyrocketing.

However, a U.S. News list of the most comfortable SUVs in 2023 reveals an affordable choice. It’s the 2023 Kia Seltos. With a starting MSRP of only $23,340, this subcompact SUV is the cheapest model on the list. It provides high-level comfort without obliterating your budget. 

Why is the affordable Kia Seltos so comfortable?

Cabin in 2023 Kia Seltos subcompact, one of most comfortable SUVs in 2023 says U.S. News, costs $23K
2023 Kia Seltos | Kia

There are multiple reasons why the 2023 Kia Seltos is one of the most comfortable SUVs. For instance, it has a “well-trimmed and suave” cabin, U.S. News reports. It provides a level of quality that one might not expect for such an affordable vehicle. Also, the controls and interior features are accessible and easy to use, including the infotainment system.

Additionally, the Seltos’ ergonomic seats provide optimal comfort. That helps reduce stiffness and fatigue on long trips. And the rear seats recline, an uncommon option in many other SUVs. Plus, this small crossover offers a relatively smooth and quiet ride. 

Furthermore, the Seltos boasts generous interior space. It has a total passenger volume of 99 cubic feet and plenty of headroom and legroom. Also, this affordable vehicle provides considerable storage space thanks to its maximum cargo capacity of 62.8 cubic feet.

What other models are on the U.S. News list of the most comfortable SUVs in 2023?

The 2023 Kia Seltos is the cheapest model in the roundup, but other affordable vehicles appear. They include the 2023 Kia Sportage ($26,290) and 2023 Hyundai Tucson ($26,900) compact SUVs. 

Here is the complete list of U.S. News’ most comfortable SUVs in 2023, in order of lowest to highest starting price: 

  1. 2023 Kia Seltos: $23,340
  2. 2023 Kia Sportage: $26,290
  3. 2023 Hyundai Tucson: $26,900
  4. 2023 Chevy Traverse: $34,520
  5. 2023 Volkswagen Atlas: $35,150
  6. 2023 Hyundai Palisade: $35,900
  7. 2023 Kia Telluride: $35,890
  8. 2023 Ford Expedition: $55,125
  9. 2023 Chevy Suburban: $56,900
  10. 2023 Jeep Wagoneer: $58,995
  11. 2023 Lincoln Navigator: $79,725
  12. 2023 Cadillac Escalade: $81,190
  13. 2023 Jeep Grand Wagoneer: $87,995

Several expensive models, such as the Lincoln Navigator, Cadillac Escalade, and Jeep Grand Wagoneer, appear on the U.S. News list. Still, budget-minded shoppers have many excellent choices, including the affordable 2023 Kia Seltos.