2022 Kia Seltos vs 2023 Genesis GV80

The 2022 Kia Seltos was positioned between the smaller Soul and the larger Sportage, offering five trim levels: LX, S, EX, Nightfall Edition, and SX. Most trims came with standard all-wheel drive (AWD), except for the Seltos S. Prices at the start of the model year ranged from $22,590 to $28,080, excluding a $1,255 destination charge. The Nightfall Edition, our test vehicle, featured matte-black 18-inch alloy wheels, a turbocharged engine, a dual-clutch transmission (DCT), a black grille, added body cladding, and robust roof rails, with an MSRP of $28,045, including the destination charge. The Seltos had a stylish interior with contrast-color dashboard panels, exposed stitching, gloss-black trim, and metallic accents, though it was marred by shiny hard plastics. The controls were logically arranged, but the purple accent color for the infotainment system was not universally appealing.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 exuded sophistication with its quad-lamp headlights and bold grille, presenting a stately midsize SUV profile at over 16 feet long. The Prestige trim featured 22-inch alloy wheels, enhancing its elegant appearance, especially with the matte Brunswick Green paint job. The interior continued the dark green theme with quilted leather seats, a split dash with thin horizontal air vents, and ample metal and matte wood trim. The center console housed three large dials for infotainment, transmission, and drive modes, complemented by a unique two-spoke steering wheel. The 14.5-inch infotainment screen, though slightly awkwardly placed, was part of a spacious and luxurious interior, making it a pleasant space to spend time.

The 2022 Kia Seltos offered a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 146 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque for the LX, S, and EX trims, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Nightfall Edition and SX trims featured a more satisfying turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 175 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT). The Seltos provided Normal, Sport, and Smart driving modes, with Smart mode balancing fuel efficiency and responsiveness. The AWD system included a Lock function for power distribution, but the Seltos' ground clearance of 7.3 inches limited its off-road capabilities. The suspension tuning was less appealing, with the vehicle exhibiting lateral rocking motions and a bouncy ride on uneven roads. Despite these issues, the Seltos was lively in urban environments, with good grip from its 18-inch wheels and tires.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 came with all-wheel drive (AWD) and a choice between a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, or a turbo 3.5-liter V6 with 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The GV80 was not particularly athletic or nimble, taking about five and a half seconds to reach sixty mph, slower than some competitors. However, it excelled at highway driving, with smooth power delivery and shifts. The electronically controlled suspension, combined with active noise cancellation, provided a smooth and quiet freeway commute.

The 2022 Kia Seltos excelled in form and function, offering a roomy interior with easy ingress and egress due to its ride height and large door openings. The Nightfall Edition featured a six-way manually adjustable driver’s seat and a tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel, with cloth upholstery and Sofino simulated leather bolsters. The rear seat accommodated adults comfortably, with generous footroom and rear air conditioning vents. Cargo space was ample, with 26.6 cubic feet behind the back seat and 62.8 cubic feet with the rear seat folded down.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 compensated for its lack of driving excitement with luxury features. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard, with ventilated front and rear seats and an Ergo Motion driver’s seat in our tester. The GV80 offered a third row, though legroom was limited to 30 inches. The proximity key and digital key provided convenience, while the tri-zone climate control system and optional 21-speaker stereo system enhanced comfort. The GV80 boasted one of the largest cargo spaces in its class, with 34.9 cubic feet behind the second row and 84 cubic feet with the seats folded down, and a towing capacity of 6,000 pounds.

The 2022 Kia Seltos expanded the availability of its 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, standard on the EX, Nightfall Edition, and SX trims. It included Bluetooth, navigation, connected services, satellite radio, and a six-speaker stereo, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto requiring a cable connection. The system was intuitive, with physical buttons and knobs for primary functions, but lacked a native conversational voice recognition system.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 12.3-inch 3D digital gauge cluster. The infotainment screen was slightly out of reach, with a cumbersome dial for navigation. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, though not wirelessly. The GV80 included remote smart parking assist, allowing the car to maneuver in and out of parking spaces without the driver inside.

The 2022 Kia Seltos was equipped with numerous driving assistance systems, including forward-collision avoidance, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. The Seltos EX added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, while the SX offered adaptive cruise control and Highway Driving Assist. The Seltos received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 was equipped with advanced driver’s aids, including forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The GV80 featured a video feed of the car’s blind spot in the digital gauge cluster and Highway Drive Assist for hands-on/eyes-up driving aid. The GV80 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Good rating for crashworthiness from the IIHS.