Hyundai Kona: A Sales Leader in the Subcompact SUV Segment
The Hyundai Kona and Kia Seltos both excel as subcompact SUVs, yet the Kona holds a slight sales advantage over its rival. According to GoodCarBadCar, the Kona has sold 37,925 units so far in 2023, outperforming the Seltos, which has sold 32,423 units. The Kona’s edge could stem from its more extensive dealer network and a lower starting price of $22,140 compared to the Seltos’s $23,340.
The Kona’s appeal is further enhanced by its diverse lineup. It features the high-performance Kona N with a 276-horsepower turbocharged engine and the Kona Electric with a 258-mile range, options not available with the Seltos. Additionally, the Kona’s extensive model range and attractive pricing contribute to its strong market performance.
The Kia Seltos: Rapid Growth and 2024 Upgrades
Despite the Kona’s current sales lead, the Kia Seltos is making significant strides, with a 64% increase in sales for 2023 compared to the Kona’s 15%. The Seltos benefits from a mid-cycle refresh for 2024, including updated styling, an enhanced infotainment system, and a more powerful turbo engine. These improvements may bolster the Seltos’s appeal, especially given its newer market entry in 2021 versus the Kona’s introduction in 2018.
Both SUVs are set to receive updates for 2024, with the Kona undergoing a complete redesign and the Seltos receiving a refreshed look and additional features. Choosing between these two excellent options depends largely on individual preferences, whether one values performance and electric options in the Kona or the Seltos’s roomier interior and standard all-wheel drive.