There’s plenty to like about the relatively new small SUV from Kia and the version I drove in particular was the Sport+.
I wanted to drive this version a tier down from the top-spec GT-Line with the 1.6-litre engine and dual-clutch transmission because it represented a saving for mums and dads out there who need to get out of their old car and into something newer, safer and better in every way.
Having driven the Hyundai Kona 1.6 I can tell you that engine, and its dual-clutch transmission, are very easy to drive both as a regular in-traffic kid taxi and as a pretend fighter pilot on the backroads home from the mountains while everyone else is asleep.
So, we know the Seltos GT-Line is going to be equally delightful to drive if you love driving. It weighs about the same, goes similarly and has broadly the same level of features as the Kona Highlander.
But if you don’t have the extra few thousand to spare, can you save a few grand and still have a very sensible family car in the Seltos Sport+?
Well, I think that depends on you. What can you afford, what annoys you about driving, and what are the alternatives if you can’t bare the less-than-perfect Seltos’ idiosyncrasies.
Alternative small SUVs you might like to consider if money’s tight are the Hyundai Venue (which I’m yet to test drive), the Mazda CX-3 Neo or Subaru XV 2.0i – their lower spec-level. You could also think about something very cheap like an MG ZS ($22-27K); it’s ‘only’ rated with a four-star ANCAP safety rating, but that’s because it’s dated 2017 but now has crash-avoidance features, plus the airbag didn’t inflate fully during a crash test.
I’d stick to the Seltos or a more mainstream brand for now, because they’re all very safe and supported by established brands and large dealer networks.
Other SUVs you might also be interested in_
Kia Sorento: This seven seat SUV has game_
Why the Subaru Outback should be a good family car…_
Mitsubishi Outlander and Hybrid review_
Mazda CX-5: Can luxury and value co-exist?_