2023 Nissan Rogue vs 2024 Kia Seltos

The 2023 Nissan Rogue featured a design that was both assured and appealing, though it did not take many risks. This SUV had proper proportions and handsome, chiseled styling with SUV detailing conveying a rugged purpose. It was popular and sold well partly because of its balanced design, which was critical for buyers who wanted a visually appealing vehicle. The Rogue lineup included several trims: S, SV, SL, and Platinum, with prices ranging from $27,360 to $37,140, plus a $1,295 destination charge. Optional Premium packages were available for SV, SL, and Platinum trims, while the new Midnight Edition package was exclusive to the SV trim.

A tested Platinum trim model included an extensive list of features: AWD, two-tone paint, a frameless rearview mirror, floor mats, cargo area protector, interior accent lighting, exterior ground lighting, illuminated kick plates, and a first-aid kit, bringing the MSRP to a significant $43,100. This price was close to entry-level luxury vehicles but was somewhat justified by the upscale upgrades evident in its soft, supple, diamond-pattern leather seats. The interior quality met high standards, especially in the segments that the driver and passenger could touch, providing a premium feeling.

In contrast, the 2024 Kia Seltos received a mid-cycle refresh that added minor yet impactful updates to its design. There were new headlight and grille designs, and a light strip connecting the two taillights, which were smaller than prior versions. These subtle changes provided the Seltos with a fresh, modern look without a significant price increase. The test model was painted in the new "Pluton Blue" color, which was quite striking.

Inside, the Seltos featured two new interior colors—"Gentle Brown" and "Midnight Green." The test model had a standard black interior, but the most noticeable change was the large digital panel that spanned two-thirds of the dash, comprising a fully digital instrument panel and a larger touchscreen infotainment system. Trim options included LX, S, EX, X-Line, and SX, each adding progressively more features and luxury. The top-tier SX offered even more with the SX Sunroof Package, which included a power sunroof, hands-free power tailgate, ventilated front seats, and digital key 2.0.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue originally came with Nissan’s familiar 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a CVT, but it switched to a new turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine with variable compression design in 2022. This VC-Turbo engine produced 201 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 225 pound-feet of torque from 2,800 rpm to 4,000 rpm. It offered Eco, Auto, and Sport driving modes, with AWD models adding Off-Road and Snow modes. Despite being more responsive than the old engine, the VC-Turbo had a short torque plateau, some unusual noise, and vibration issues that might be off-putting to certain drivers. Fuel economy was rated by the EPA at an expected 31 mpg in combined driving, but testing showed an average of 28.9 mpg. Suspension and handling were balanced, though steering felt lifeless.

The 2024 Kia Seltos had two main engines. The base was a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine generating 146 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT). The X-Line and SX trims came with a more powerful turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 195 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This engine noticeably improved acceleration, especially at highway speeds, and the Seltos managed various New England road surfaces well. Steering was responsive, body roll was minimal, and the brakes were initially touchy but settled over time. The Seltos provided 7.3 inches of ground clearance, making it capable for occasional off-road ventures.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue aimed to replace traditional family cars by providing a higher driving position, available AWD, and more practical cargo space. Our Platinum test vehicle featured luxurious amenities like triple-zone climate control, a dual-panel panoramic sunroof, and premium leather seats. While the front seats were exceptionally comfortable with Zero Gravity designs, the rear seats were less so, with low cushions and uncomfortable diamond-shaped pleats. Cargo space was generous at 36.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 74.1 cubic feet with seats folded, enhanced by the Divide-N-Hide feature.

The 2024 Kia Seltos offered 62.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 26.6 cubic feet with seats in use. A hands-free power liftgate was available in the SX trim. The Seltos had good driver visibility and a comfortable front seating area, with decent rear legroom for taller passengers. Storage solutions included in-door cupholders and cubbies, a front center console tray, and a removable cargo cover in the SX trim.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue’s infotainment system featured an 8-inch or 9-inch touchscreen with stereo knobs and accessible menu buttons. The 9-inch screen on the test vehicle included Bluetooth, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, NissanConnect services, Wi-Fi hotspot, navigation system, and Alexa Built-in. The voice recognition system struggled with certain commands, but the 12.3-inch digital instrumentation and head-up display were effective.

The 2024 Kia Seltos varied its screen sizes based on trim. The base version featured an 8-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch digital instrument cluster. Higher trims had a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel and touchscreen, both of which included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Seltos retained tactile controls for volume and tuning, plus hard buttons for climate settings. The SX trim was equipped with an eight-speaker Bose premium stereo system and Digital Key 2 Touch for smartphone-based locking and access.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue was well-equipped with safety features, including ten airbags, a rear-seat reminder system, and Safety Shield 360, which bundled numerous driver assistance technologies. Higher trims offered ProPilot Assist with Navi-link, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance. The Rogue earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received lower scores in specific crash tests.

The 2024 Kia Seltos also came with an array of standard driver assistance features, such as forward collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and driver attention warning. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and smart cruise control. The SX trim included traffic sign recognition and highway driving assist, enhancing overall safety.