2023 Kia Seltos Still Offers Superb Value For Money

Here at CarBuzz, we're quite big fans of the handsome Kia Seltos. Aside from the appealing exterior styling, Korea's compact crossover has plenty to offer, including a spacious cabin and impressive in-car technology. Most of all, we're impressed by the sheer value for money; 2022 models start at just $22,590. However, MY2023 has arrived with very minor tweaks - and a price bump, too.

Thankfully, it's nothing to worry about. The Seltos retains its value-driven pricing, with the base LX trim coming in at $22,840. This represents a $250 increase, not bad when you consider the entire range benefits from improved noise insulation and enhanced driver assistance systems. The standard all-wheel drive is a bonus.

Moving up in the range, you'll find the S models. Pricing for the front-wheel-drive model now sits at $22,890 with the AWD derivative commanding an additional $1,500 outlay. This represents a $100 increase compared to the 2022 Seltos, a small price to pay considering the S trim level now receives rear blindspot collision avoidance and rear cross-traffic collision avoidance as standard.

Posher models are also affected by the spate of MSRP hikes. The EX trim level, previously $25,890, is now priced at $26,140 while the Nightfall Edition is now $250 dearer than before. The most expensive model is the SX trim which, at $28,340, is also $250 pricier than last year's model. We're guessing not too many consumers will be worried by this marginal increase, considering the improved safety of the S model and enhanced refinement.

It's worth noting all prices listed here exclude Kia's $1,295 destination fee.

Those wanting more changes will be disappointed, but we expect Kia to usher in a mid-cycle update anytime now. According to reports, the facelift will introduce fresher styling and, possibly, a hybrid drivetrain. The newcomer will most likely arrive as a 2024 model, with a spied prototype suggesting significant changes are in the cards.

We could see the rumored all-electric derivative around the same time. Leaked internal documents showed us some time ago that Kia would introduce a battery-powered Seltos, but for the Chinese market only. However, the brand has a strategy to lead the EV segment and we anticipate that a well-priced Seltos EV would go down a treat with consumers.

As a reminder, the Seltos is available with two powertrains in the USA. The 146 horsepower, 2.0-liter four-pot does duty in the LX, S, and EX trims while the Nightfall Edition and SX gain exclusive access to the sprightlier 1.6-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder with 175 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque.