2021 Jeep Renegade vs 2021 Kia Seltos
Overview | |
MSRP$21,990 | MSRP$22,850 |
Listings615 | Listings655 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews8.0 out of 10 | Expert reviews7.2 out of 10 |
Pros
Cons
| Pros
Cons
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2021 Kia Seltos Reviews SummaryThe subcompact SUV segment has now grown to 18 vehicles and counting. It is one of the fastest-growing vehicle segments among new cars. This is in large part due to the combination of usable cabin space, efficiency, price, and confidence-inspiring ride height. But even within this segment, there are two classes of vehicles. There are ones that feel somewhat watered down, such as the Ford EcoSport, Chevrolet Trax, and Nissan Kicks. And then there are subcompact SUVs that do not force the buyer to compromise. Options like the Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX-30, and Honda HR-V, and Subaru Crosstrek scale down the size of the SUV without pairing back on the quality or features. The all-new 2021 Kia Seltos, slotted below the compact Kia Sportage and midsize Kia Telluride and Sorento, is very much in the latter group, and it may lead the pack out of the gate. The Seltos provides a high-quality cabin, the latest infotainment and safety technologies, and driving dynamics that go well beyond the segment status quo. | |
2021 Jeep Renegade Reviews SummaryFew brands enjoy as defined a reputation and identity as Jeep. Much like Porsche and performance driving, Jeep has carved out its niche as the “off-road brand.” Its vehicles may not traverse the Rubicon every day of the week, but each model in its lineup is capable of doing so (when properly equipped). That even includes the 2021 Jeep Renegade subcompact SUV. The Renegade can venture off the beaten path when needed and it offers practical utility and intuitive technology for everyday life. | |
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Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine2.0L 146 hp I4 | Engine2.4L 180 hp I4 |
Drive TrainAWD | Drive TrainFWD |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity5 |
Horsepower146 hp @ 6200 rpm | Horsepower180 hp @ 6400 rpm |
MPG City27 | MPG City22 |
MPG Highway31 | MPG Highway30 |
Engine | |
Engine Name2.0L 146 hp I4 | Engine Name2.4L 180 hp I4 |
Torque132 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm | Torque175 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm |
Horsepower146 hp @ 6200 rpm | Horsepower180 hp @ 6400 rpm |
DrivetrainAWD | DrivetrainFWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City27 | MPG City22 |
MPG Highway31 | MPG Highway30 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity5 |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall4 | Front Crash Overall4 |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall4 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space26.6 cu ft | Cargo Space18.5 cu ft |
Curb Weight3087 lbs | Curb Weight3159 lbs |
Height63.6 in | Height66.5 in |
Length172.0 in | Length166.6 in |
Width70.9 in | Width79.6 in |
Wheelbase103.5 in | Wheelbase101.2 in |
Maximum Payload1080 lbs | Maximum Payload1118 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Overview | ||
MSRP | $21,990 | $22,850 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | ||
Expert reviews | 8.0 out of 10Read full review | 7.2 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
Cons
| Pros
Cons
|
Summary | The subcompact SUV segment has now grown to 18 vehicles and counting. It is one of the fastest-growing vehicle segments among new cars. This is in large part due to the combination of usable cabin space, efficiency, price, and confidence-inspiring ride height. But even within this segment, there are two classes of vehicles. There are ones that feel somewhat watered down, such as the Ford EcoSport, Chevrolet Trax, and Nissan Kicks. And then there are subcompact SUVs that do not force the buyer to compromise. Options like the Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX-30, and Honda HR-V, and Subaru Crosstrek scale down the size of the SUV without pairing back on the quality or features. The all-new 2021 Kia Seltos, slotted below the compact Kia Sportage and midsize Kia Telluride and Sorento, is very much in the latter group, and it may lead the pack out of the gate. The Seltos provides a high-quality cabin, the latest infotainment and safety technologies, and driving dynamics that go well beyond the segment status quo. | Few brands enjoy as defined a reputation and identity as Jeep. Much like Porsche and performance driving, Jeep has carved out its niche as the “off-road brand.” Its vehicles may not traverse the Rubicon every day of the week, but each model in its lineup is capable of doing so (when properly equipped). That even includes the 2021 Jeep Renegade subcompact SUV. The Renegade can venture off the beaten path when needed and it offers practical utility and intuitive technology for everyday life. |
Video | No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 2.0L 146 hp I4 | 2.4L 180 hp I4 |
Drive Train | AWD | FWD |
Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Horsepower | 146 hp @ 6200 rpm | 180 hp @ 6400 rpm |
MPG City | 27 | 22 |
MPG Highway | 31 | 30 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 2.0L 146 hp I4 | 2.4L 180 hp I4 |
Torque | 132 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm | 175 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm |
Horsepower | 146 hp @ 6200 rpm | 180 hp @ 6400 rpm |
Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 27 | 22 |
MPG Highway | 31 | 30 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 4 | 4 |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | 4 |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 26.6 cu ft | 18.5 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 3087 lbs | 3159 lbs |
Height | 63.6 in | 66.5 in |
Length | 172.0 in | 166.6 in |
Width | 70.9 in | 79.6 in |
Wheelbase | 103.5 in | 101.2 in |
Maximum Payload | 1080 lbs | 1118 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
The 2021 Kia Seltos, rated 9 out of 10 by CarGurus experts, exudes a big-car feel despite its subcompact SUV classification. It boasts an upright layout with a commanding view of the road and features an aggressive approach angle, hinting at off-road capabilities. The interior showcases a straightforward design layout with seamlessly integrated tech features, resembling more upscale brands like Audi.
On the other hand, the 2021 Jeep Renegade, rated 7 out of 10, draws inspiration from the iconic Wrangler SUV, featuring a boxy profile, circular headlights, and an upright seven-slat grille. The Renegade offers a variety of trims and special editions, each with unique features and equipment.
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Kia Seltos 8 out of 10 for performance. The Seltos offers a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine in lower trims and a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine in higher trims, providing ample power and nimble handling. The Seltos also features drive modes that enhance its performance characteristics.
Conversely, the 2021 Jeep Renegade, rated 6 out of 10, offers a 2.4-liter four-cylinder base engine and an optional turbocharged 1.3-liter four-cylinder unit. While the Renegade's engines deliver decent performance, the turbocharged engine stands out for its added torque and refinement.
The 2021 Kia Seltos, rated 7 out of 10, impresses with its spacious cargo area, offering 26.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 62.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. It also provides ample rear-seat space, setting a new standard for subcompact SUVs.
In comparison, the 2021 Jeep Renegade offers 50.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, slightly less than the Seltos. However, its tall, boxy design provides generous headroom and numerous storage solutions.
The 2021 Kia Seltos, rated 8 out of 10, features a range of infotainment options, including a large touchscreen system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, some users may find the USB port configuration and smartphone integration to be slightly inconvenient.
Meanwhile, the 2021 Jeep Renegade offers a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with an optional 8.4-inch screen available on higher trims. Both systems run the intuitive Uconnect interface and come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
CarGurus highlights
Based on the ratings provided by CarGurus experts, the 2021 Kia Seltos emerges as the more compelling choice, offering a well-rounded package with superior performance, spacious interior, advanced technology, and cost-effective ownership. Therefore, for consumers seeking a subcompact SUV that excels in various aspects, the 2021 Kia Seltos is the recommended option.
Choose the 2021 Jeep Renegade if:
- You desire a subcompact SUV with a unique, boxy design and generous headroom.
- You are interested in a vehicle with a variety of trims and special editions, offering diverse features and capabilities.
- You appreciate a vehicle with a solid ride quality and maneuverability, ideal for city driving.
Choose the 2021 Kia Seltos if:
- You prioritize spacious cargo capacity and rear-seat comfort.
- You seek a subcompact SUV with efficient fuel economy and a competitive starting price.
- You value a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance safety features.
CarGurus highlights
Based on the ratings provided by CarGurus experts, the 2021 Kia Seltos emerges as the more compelling choice, offering a well-rounded package with superior performance, spacious interior, advanced technology, and cost-effective ownership. Therefore, for consumers seeking a subcompact SUV that excels in various aspects, the 2021 Kia Seltos is the recommended option.
Choose the 2021 Jeep Renegade if:
Shop Now- You desire a subcompact SUV with a unique, boxy design and generous headroom.
- You are interested in a vehicle with a variety of trims and special editions, offering diverse features and capabilities.
- You appreciate a vehicle with a solid ride quality and maneuverability, ideal for city driving.
Choose the 2021 Kia Seltos if:
Shop Now- You prioritize spacious cargo capacity and rear-seat comfort.
- You seek a subcompact SUV with efficient fuel economy and a competitive starting price.
- You value a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance safety features.
By: CarGurus + AI
At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.