Chevrolet Trax vs Kia Seltos

2024 Chevrolet Trax
2024 Chevrolet Trax
$20,400MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2024 Kia Seltos
2024 Kia Seltos
$24,490MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2024 Chevrolet Trax
$20,400MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2024 Kia Seltos
$24,490MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

Years produced

2013-2022

Years produced

2021-Present

MSRP

$20,400

MSRP

$24,490

Listings

9290

Listings

9403

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

8.3 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.5 out of 10

Pros

  • Stylish design

  • Great handling

  • Impressive technology

Cons

  • AWD not available

  • Advanced safety features are not standard

  • Poor ergonomic design

Pros

  • Lots of helpful standard safety features

  • Functional cabin with intuitive technology

  • AWD standard on base trim level

Cons

  • Base engine feels underpowered

  • Optional turbo engine suffers from low-speed turbo-lag

Reviews Summary

The Trax was launched for the 2015 model year as a no-frills subcompact crossover, designed to serve as basic transportation at an affordable cost. However, the Trax moldered in showrooms without any significant updates until the 2022 model year—when it was discontinued altogether.

But now the Trax is back in totally revamped, second-generation form. It's as big of a reimagining as you'll likely ever see in a car like this. The new Trax is bigger than before, more effort has been put into its styling, and Chevy has added the tech features that have become the norm since the original Trax was launched. Still the entry-level model in Chevy's lineup, the Trax sits below the Chevy Trailblazer, and takes aim at the Hyundai Venue and Nissan Kicks, but it was also designed to retain owners of discontinued small cars like the Chevy Cruze, Sonic, and Spark, bridging the gap between car and crossover.

The redesigned 2024 Trax launches in LS, 1RS, LT, 2RS, and Activ trim levels. We sampled 2RS and Activ models on roads around Asheville, North Carolina.

Reviews Summary

The Kia Seltos was first introduced for the 2021 model year and instantly made waves in the subcompact SUV segment. It was impressively spacious and offered plenty of headroom and legroom, even for second-row occupants. These were novel concepts in this small-crossover segment. The Seltos also delivered plenty of standard features and easy-to-use technology. Three years on, and the Seltos is enjoying its first mid-cycle refresh. Though it’s largely the same Seltos as before, it gains fresh styling as well as updated technology. Such tweaks can go a long way, and automakers endeavor to make unseen changes that contribute to the overall driving experience.

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

1.2L 137 hp I3

Engine

2.0L 146 hp I4

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

AWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

137 hp @ 5000 rpm

Horsepower

146 hp @ 6200 rpm

MPG City

28

MPG City

27

MPG Highway

32

MPG Highway

31
2024 Chevrolet Trax
2024 Chevrolet Trax
$20,400MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2024 Kia Seltos
2024 Kia Seltos
$24,490MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2024 Chevrolet Trax
$20,400MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2024 Kia Seltos
$24,490MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

Years produced
2013-2022
2021-Present
MSRP
$20,400
$24,490
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews

4.5

4.6

Expert reviews

8.3 out of 10

Read full review

7.5 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons

Pros

  • Stylish design

  • Great handling

  • Impressive technology

Cons

  • AWD not available

  • Advanced safety features are not standard

  • Poor ergonomic design

Pros

  • Lots of helpful standard safety features

  • Functional cabin with intuitive technology

  • AWD standard on base trim level

Cons

  • Base engine feels underpowered

  • Optional turbo engine suffers from low-speed turbo-lag

Summary

The Trax was launched for the 2015 model year as a no-frills subcompact crossover, designed to serve as basic transportation at an affordable cost. However, the Trax moldered in showrooms without any significant updates until the 2022 model year—when it was discontinued altogether.

But now the Trax is back in totally revamped, second-generation form. It's as big of a reimagining as you'll likely ever see in a car like this. The new Trax is bigger than before, more effort has been put into its styling, and Chevy has added the tech features that have become the norm since the original Trax was launched. Still the entry-level model in Chevy's lineup, the Trax sits below the Chevy Trailblazer, and takes aim at the Hyundai Venue and Nissan Kicks, but it was also designed to retain owners of discontinued small cars like the Chevy Cruze, Sonic, and Spark, bridging the gap between car and crossover.

The redesigned 2024 Trax launches in LS, 1RS, LT, 2RS, and Activ trim levels. We sampled 2RS and Activ models on roads around Asheville, North Carolina.

The Kia Seltos was first introduced for the 2021 model year and instantly made waves in the subcompact SUV segment. It was impressively spacious and offered plenty of headroom and legroom, even for second-row occupants. These were novel concepts in this small-crossover segment. The Seltos also delivered plenty of standard features and easy-to-use technology. Three years on, and the Seltos is enjoying its first mid-cycle refresh. Though it’s largely the same Seltos as before, it gains fresh styling as well as updated technology. Such tweaks can go a long way, and automakers endeavor to make unseen changes that contribute to the overall driving experience.
Video

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
1.2L 137 hp I3
2.0L 146 hp I4
Drive Train
FWD
AWD
Seating Capacity
5
5
Horsepower
137 hp @ 5000 rpm
146 hp @ 6200 rpm
MPG City
28
27
MPG Highway
32
31
Look and feel

2024 Chevrolet Trax

7/10

2024 Kia Seltos

7/10
The 2024 Kia Seltos continues to impress in the subcompact SUV segment with its spacious interior, updated technology, and fresh styling following a mid-cycle refresh. Originally launched for the 2021 model year, the Seltos stands out for its comfort, utility, and feature-rich packages. On the other hand, the 2024 Chevrolet Trax marks a dramatic return with a completely overhauled design, significantly improved technology, and enhanced driving dynamics. Discontinued after the 2022 model year, the new Trax emerges as a strong contender, aiming to bridge the gap between traditional cars and crossovers with its stylish looks and advanced features.
Picture of 2024 Chevrolet Trax
Performance

2024 Chevrolet Trax

6/10

2024 Kia Seltos

8/10
Performance ratings from CarGurus position the 2024 Kia Seltos at 6 out of 10, while the 2024 Chevrolet Trax earns an 8 out of 10. The Seltos's base engine provides adequate power, and its turbocharged option offers a noticeable performance boost, though with some turbo lag. Both engines benefit from well-tuned transmissions and AWD options, delivering a balanced and comfortable driving experience across various conditions. The Trax, with its new 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, presents a surprising improvement in performance despite a decrease in horsepower. The engine's torque delivery and the carryover six-speed automatic transmission contribute to a responsive and engaging drive. The FWD-only configuration and car-like handling characteristics provide a fun and nimble ride, setting the Trax apart in its segment.
Form and function

2024 Chevrolet Trax

7/10

2024 Kia Seltos

8/10
The form and function category reveals a subtle yet significant difference in these two vehicles’ approaches to utility and comfort. The 2024 Kia Seltos is rated at 7 out of 10 by CarGurus experts, offering up to 62.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down. When the rear seats are in use, the cargo space available is still a generous 26.6 cubic feet. This space, combined with the Seltos's upright seating and ample headroom, provides not only solid driver visibility but also comfortable accommodation for passengers, especially in terms of rear legroom. The thoughtful design of the interior, including practical in-door cubbies and a versatile center console, further enhances the Seltos's functionality. The 2024 Chevrolet Trax, with its 8 out of 10 rating, shows a careful consideration of space utilization despite its more compact dimensions compared to the 2023 model. The redesigned Trax offers 25.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and expands to 54.1 cubic feet with the seats folded. This represents a significant improvement and a thoughtful design to maximize the vehicle's utility. Additionally, the Trax provides three more inches of rear-seat legroom than its predecessor, a slight increase in front-seat legroom, and maintains a car-like driving position that benefits outward visibility. However, it's worth noting that the first-row headroom remains unchanged, and the second-row headroom has decreased slightly, alongside a reduction in shoulder room, indicating a snugger fit for passengers. Both the 2024 Kia Seltos and Chevrolet Trax have made strides in balancing the demands of subcompact SUV buyers, offering a mix of space, comfort, and practicality that aims to meet the needs of a wide array of users.
Technology

2024 Chevrolet Trax

7/10

2024 Kia Seltos

9/10
Technology ratings reveal a 7 out of 10 for the 2024 Kia Seltos and a 9 out of 10 for the 2024 Chevrolet Trax. The Seltos features a robust infotainment system with varying screen sizes across trims, retaining some physical controls for ease of use. Connectivity options and a premium audio system are highlights, along with digital key capabilities. The Trax stands out with significant upgrades, including larger touchscreen options, wireless connectivity features, and a modern, user-friendly interface. Its digital instrument cluster and thoughtful design elements underscore Chevy's effort to offer advanced technology in an entry-level model, making it a leader in its class for tech offerings.
Safety

2024 Chevrolet Trax

9/10

2024 Kia Seltos

7/10
Safety evaluations give the 2024 Kia Seltos a 9 out of 10 and the 2024 Chevrolet Trax a 7 out of 10. The Seltos excels with an extensive suite of standard and optional driver-assistance features, covering everything from collision avoidance to adaptive cruise control. Its focus on safety is evident, offering peace of mind to drivers. The Trax promises a comprehensive array of safety features, including several advanced driver aids as standard. The inclusion of Chevy's Teen Driver system adds an extra layer of security, particularly for new drivers.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2024 Kia Seltos is 7.5 out of 10, while the 2024 Chevrolet Trax scores 8.3 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the Chevrolet Trax is the recommended choice, offering superior look and feel, performance, technology, and an impressive transformation from its predecessor.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2024 Kia Seltos is 7.5 out of 10, while the 2024 Chevrolet Trax scores 8.3 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the Chevrolet Trax is the recommended choice, offering superior look and feel, performance, technology, and an impressive transformation from its predecessor.

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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.

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