2024 Kia Seltos vs 2024 Subaru Outback

2024 Kia Seltos

VEHICLE TYPE
Front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door wagon

PRICE
Base/As Tested: $31,315/$31,490
Options: carpeted floor mats, $175

ENGINE
turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head, direct fuel injection
Displacement: 98 in³, 1598 cm³
Power: 195 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque: 195 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm

TRANSMISSION
8-speed automatic

CHASSIS
Suspension, F/R: struts/multilink
Brakes, F/R: 12.0-in vented disc/11.0-in disc
Tires: Kumho Majesty 9 Solus TA91
235/45R-18 94V M+S

DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 103.5 in
Length: 172.6 in
Width: 70.9 in
Height: 64.0 in
Passenger Volume, F/R: 53/46 ft³
Cargo Volume, Behind F/R: 63/27 ft³
Curb Weight: 3294 lb

2024 Subaru Outback

VEHICLE TYPE
Front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door wagon

PRICE
Base/As Tested: $38,120/$39,965
Options: Moonroof, navigation, and reverse automatic braking package, $1845

ENGINE
turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve flat-4, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection
Displacement: 146 in³, 2387 cm³
Power: 260 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque: 277 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm

TRANSMISSION
continuously variable automatic

CHASSIS
Suspension, F/R: struts/multilink
Brakes, F/R: 12.4-in vented disc/11.8-in vented disc
Tires: Yokohama Geolandar A/T G015
225/65R-17 102T M+S

DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 108.1 in
Length: 191.3 in
Width: 74.6 in
Height: 66.9 in
Passenger Volume: 103 ft³
Cargo Volume: 33 ft³
Curb Weight: 3973 lb

A Comprehensive Comparison

Introduction

In the dynamic realm of SUVs, the 2024 Kia Seltos and the 2024 Subaru Outback emerge as compelling choices for discerning buyers. This comprehensive comparison aims to dissect the key attributes of both vehicles, providing prospective buyers with valuable insights to guide their decisions based on individual preferences and needs.

Overview of the 2024 Kia Seltos:

The 2024 Kia Seltos, positioned between the smaller Soul and the larger Sportage, makes a statement with its stylish design, spacious cabin, and enjoyable driving experience. The Seltos distinguishes itself by offering more cargo space than rivals such as the Hyundai Kona and the Nissan Kicks. A recent styling refresh enhances its visual appeal, accompanied by interior updates like a dual-screen infotainment system. Two engine options include a 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder, with the latter delivering 195 horsepower. Standard all-wheel drive across most trims and a balanced ride contribute to the Seltos’ status as a favorite in the small SUV segment.

Key Points:

Stylish Design: The Seltos stands out with its stylish exterior and a recent styling refresh.
Spacious Interior: Roomier than many subcompact crossovers, offering ample space for passengers and cargo.
Dual-Screen Infotainment: An upgraded infotainment system with dual screens adds a modern touch to the interior.

Overview of the 2024 Subaru Outback:

The 2024 Subaru Outback, known for its wagon-like design, continues to be a preferred choice for adventurous families. Equipped with a 2.5-liter flat-four-cylinder engine as standard and an optional turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four, the Outback emphasizes a balance between power and efficiency. The rugged Wilderness trim enhances its off-road capabilities with increased ground clearance and specialized features. With standard all-wheel drive, the Outback provides a smooth ride, and its spacious interior and cargo bay further contribute to its appeal.

Key Points:

Wagon-Like Design: The Outback maintains its distinctive wagon appearance, combining SUV features with a car-like ride.
Off-Road Capabilities: The Wilderness trim adds off-road prowess with increased ground clearance and specialized features.
Spacious Interior: Known for its spacious interior and cargo capacity, catering to the needs of families and adventure enthusiasts.

Comparison of Engine Options

The heart of any vehicle lies in its engine, and the Seltos and the Outback offer different powerplants to meet varied preferences. The Seltos provides two engine options: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder. In contrast, the Outback comes with a standard 2.5-liter flat-four-cylinder and an optional turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four.

Key Points:

Seltos: Choice between a 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a more powerful turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder.
Outback: Standard 2.5-liter flat-four-cylinder with an optional turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four for added performance.

Comparison of Exterior Design

Exterior design is a pivotal factor influencing buyers’ choices. The Seltos showcases a stylish and refreshed appearance with a restyled grille, updated lighting elements, and new wheel designs. On the other hand, the Outback maintains its recognizable wagon-like silhouette with rugged styling cues.

Key Points:

Seltos: Stylish and refreshed exterior with distinctive elements like a restyled grille and updated lighting.
Outback: Maintains its iconic wagon appearance with rugged design elements for a distinctive look.

Comparison of Interior Features and Comfort

Interior comfort is crucial for an SUV, and both the Seltos and the Outback prioritize a pleasant driving experience. The Seltos offers a roomy cabin with the option of a dual-screen infotainment system. The Outback, known for its spacious interior, focuses on providing a comfortable and versatile environment.

Key Points:

Seltos: Roomy interior with the option for a dual-screen infotainment system for modern features.
Outback: Spacious and comfortable interior, emphasizing versatility for various needs.

Comparison of Safety Features

Safety is a paramount consideration for buyers, and both the Seltos and the Outback equip their models with standard safety features. The Seltos includes automated emergency braking and lane-departure warning, while the Outback adds features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

Key Points:

Seltos: Standard automated emergency braking and lane-departure warning for enhanced safety.
Outback: Standard automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert for comprehensive safety.

Pricing and Value for Money

Affordability is a significant factor in the decision-making process. The Seltos offers a range of trims, starting at $25,715, making it a competitive option in terms of value. The Outback, with a starting price of $30,240, emphasizes its balance of features and affordability.

Key Points:

Seltos: Competitive starting price at $25,715, providing good value for the features offered.
Outback: Starting at $30,240, balancing features and affordability for buyers.

Cargo Space and Practicality

Balancing passenger comfort with cargo capacity is crucial for SUVs. The Seltos, with its slightly larger-than-subcompact size, offers practical cargo space. The Outback, with its wagon-like design, focuses on providing a versatile cargo bay.

Key Points:

Seltos: Slightly larger-than-subcompact size, offering practical cargo space for daily needs.
Outback: Wagon-like design contributing to a versatile cargo bay for various hauling needs.

Fuel Efficiency

Efficient fuel consumption is a key consideration for SUV buyers. The Seltos, with its engine options, provides competitive fuel efficiency. The Outback, considering its size and power, delivers reasonable fuel efficiency.

Key Points:

Seltos: Competitive fuel efficiency with engine options catering to varied preferences.
Outback: Reasonable fuel efficiency considering the size and power of the vehicle.

Conclusion

The decision between the 2024 Kia Seltos and the 2024 Subaru Outback ultimately hinges on individual preferences and specific needs. The Seltos caters to those seeking a stylish and versatile small SUV with a range of trims and modern features. In contrast, the Outback appeals to buyers desiring a wagon-like design with off-road capabilities and a spacious interior. Consider your priorities – whether they revolve around design, features, or practicality – to make an informed decision. Both the Seltos and the Outback bring unique strengths to the table, addressing different segments of the SUV market.