Choosing Between 2027 Kia Seltos and Sportage: Main Differences Explained

If you’re considering a gas-powered crossover SUV from Kia, the 2027 Seltos and the 2027 Sportage are likely at the top of your list. Both vehicles offer all-wheel drive and a lineup of impressive features, but how do they really compare? Here’s a quick breakdown of their main differences to help guide your choice.

Design & Exterior

• Seltos: Totally redesigned for 2027, the Seltos X-Line SX sports a boxier, more rugged appearance reminiscent of the Telluride, with blacked-out features and 19-inch glossy black wheels. Its Snow White Pearl color makes it stand out with a modern flair.
• Sportage: The Sportage X-Line shows off a sleeker, sportier design in Glacial White Pearl, also with 19-inch glossy black wheels. It takes up more space on the road compared to the Seltos and features a more angular rear.

Engine & Performance

• Seltos: Comes with a 1.6-liter turbo 4-cylinder engine producing just under 200 horsepower, delivering a punchy and energetic drive.
• Sportage: Features a larger 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, also making just under 200 horsepower. The power is comparable, but the Seltos achieves its performance with a smaller, turbocharged engine.

Interior Space & Comfort

• Cargo Space: The Sportage excels in cargo capacity, offering 39.6 cubic feet versus the Seltos’ 27.8 cubic feet—a significant 10 cubic foot advantage that’s especially helpful for families or those who need more storage.
• Legroom: While both provide identical front legroom (41.4 inches), the Sportage offers about 2.5 inches more rear legroom for extra comfort.
• Seating & Amenities: Both models feature Black Syntex perforated seats, panoramic sunroofs, USB-C charging, and rear ventilation. The Seltos does a great job of maximizing its smaller space, but rear passengers in the Sportage will enjoy noticeably more room.

Technology & Safety Features

• Seltos SX: Stands out for its high level of tech, offering heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel with a sporty flat-top and bottom design, and advanced safety features. The SX trim includes parking collision avoidance assist, parking distance warning, a surround view monitor, and a blind spot view monitor that displays camera footage when signaling.
• Sportage X-Line: Offers heated front seats and many of the same safety features, but uses a radar-based backup system instead of the Seltos’ 360-degree camera view. You may miss a few camera angles and tech amenities found in the Seltos.

Pricing

• Seltos X-Line SX AWD: MSRP of $37,430
• Sportage X-Line AWD: MSRP of $36,880

The prices are very close, making the real choice about features and space.

Compare the Kia Sportage and Seltos

Which One Should You Choose?

• Choose the Seltos if you prefer a compact, tech-rich ride with a modern, boxy style and advanced camera features.
• Choose the Sportage if you need more interior space and cargo volume for family or lifestyle needs, with slightly fewer tech perks but greater practicality.

Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value the extra space and comfort of the Sportage or the cutting-edge tech and distinctive look of the Seltos. Both are excellent options in the Kia lineup, tailored to different drivers’ priorities, as highlighted by Brian and Jesse in their comparison.