Like the regular Q5, the high-performance SQ5 receives a host of exterior updates, including an all-new Sportback variant, for 2021 to freshen its look. New exterior lighting elements, a tweaked grille and bumpers, and new wheel designs differentiate it from last year's model. The top-spec Prestige gets OLED taillights as standard, and two new colors join the palette: Ultra Blue and District Green.
Pros Handsomely-equipped cabin, comfortable ride, decent fuel economy for a performance SUV.
Cons Not overly spacious, turbo V-6 doesn't match rivals' horsepower, handling not as sharp as it could be.
Sportier Sportback does well to not compromise on practicality, but you’ll pay a premium for odd looks.
Pros Impressively practical despite the roof, interior is still top of the class
Cons It will give you an existential crisis. What is it all for?
All-new model for 2021.Has a sleeker style than the regular SQ5.Comes standard with an adaptive sport suspension.Part of the first Q5 Sportback generation introduced 2021.
Pros Impressively comfortable ride for a sport-tuned SUV Luxurious but restrained interior design Nimble handling
Cons Infotainment system is distracting to use Less overall storage space than standard SQ5
Pros Plenty of cargo space Upscale interior design and materials Distinctive styling and paint color choices add personality
Cons Front seats aren't very comfortable for long drives Less than athletic handling
For the Seltos's sophomore year, it gains a host of driver-assistance features as standard, including automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high-beam headlamps. The larger 10.3-inch infotainment screen is now standard on more of the Seltos's trim levels, and all but the LX trim now come with automatic climate control and remote start; the top-spec SX receives a flat-bottomed steering wheel and a new Plum interior color scheme. The Nightfall Edition is new to the lineup this year and features unique black-painted 18-inch aluminum wheels and blacked-out exterior trim.
Pros Roomier cabin than other subcompact SUVs, slick infotainment features, engaging driving dynamics.
Cons Stiff-legged ride over bumpy surfaces, optional seven-speed automatic occasionally stumbles, base powertrain could use some refinement.
It is a finalist for our 2022 Best Subcompact SUV for the Money award. Currently the Kia Seltos has a score of 8.2 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 25 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Huge cargo hold Spacious seats Straightforward infotainment controls Great gas mileage
Cons Meager base engine Less agile than rivals
