Skip to main content

Do people buy the most recommended version of the 2022 Kia Seltos? One trim level is more popular than all the others. Every version of the Kia subcompact SUV is a viable option, but some are better than others. According to a few experts, the best Seltos trim is not the most popular. Experts don’t recommend the most popular 2022 Kia Seltos trim.

What is the most popular 2022 Kia Seltos trim? The base LX model provides a lot of bang for your buck.
2023 Kia Seltos | Kia

KBB says the most popular 2022 Kia Seltos is the LX base model. Out of five available options, the cheapest version of the subcompact SUV is the one most people buy. In its most affordable form, the Seltos LX costs $23,845 MSRP with all additional fees applied. It’s not surprising to see the most affordable trim as the most popular. Why are people choosing the base models over more well-equipped versions of the Seltos?

Choosing the most popular 2022 Kia Seltos gets owners a wide variety of equipment. Along with the 146 horsepower four-cylinder engine, the LX model comes with an eight-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a USB port, a six-speaker audio system, automatic headlights, and more. Additionally, customers (and we) love that safety isn’t hidden behind a paywall. Standard Seltos active safety features include forward collision mitigation, lane departure warning, driver attention warning, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high beams.

The best 2022 Kia Seltos trim, according to experts

Experts like Edmunds and Car and Driver disagree on the best Seltos trim level. Edmunds recommends the S trim, while C/D recommends buying the EX model. For Edmunds, the reviewer likes that the Seltos S has “a nice balance between features and price.” With a larger touchscreen, automatic climate control, and all-wheel drive included for just a little more cost than the base model, it’s difficult to argue.

C/D argues the best value lies with the Seltos EX model. It says the EX trim is well equipped, just like the range-topping SX, but much cheaper. Additionally, it is fine without all-wheel drive but loves its availability. Customers can pay extra for AWD if it’s required in your area. However, many buyers can get away without it, saving a lot of money.

Is the Seltos SX worth it?

What is the most popular trim for the Kia Seltos subcompact SUV?
2023 Kia Seltos | Kia

Choosing the SX model will cost you $29,345. Luckily, that’s still pretty affordable compared to many modern vehicles. The 2022 Kia Seltos lineup remains affordable throughout, so even the fully-loaded SX trim is within reach for the average person. Those who choose the highest trim level gain LED headlights, a Bose premium audio system, an upgraded driver information display, a sport steering wheel, adaptive cruise control, and a cargo cover.

Are those features enough for you to pay $5,000 more than Edmunds’s recommended trim or $2,000 more than C/D’s? We don’t think so, and neither does Edmunds or Car and Driver. Overall, it’s unlikely you’ll find that much value in LED headlights, a sportier steering wheel, or a cargo cover. Most essential features are offered in lower trims, even the most popular base model Seltos LX.

In conclusion, the best 2022 Kia Seltos trims are the S or EX models. However, the most popular version of the subcompact SUV is the base LX trim. While the EX offers a lot over the base model, the Seltos S has a similar amount of bang for a lot less buck. Standard features like Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, an infotainment touchscreen, and a suite of active safety features make every trim level a viable choice.

It’s no wonder customers choose to pay the lowest amount possible. Although experts don’t always agree on which model is best, many agree the S and EX trims are worth upgrading over the most popular 2022 Kia Seltos LX.

Related

Here’s Why the 2022 Kia Seltos Was the Fastest-Selling New Car of October

Best in Crossovers
Avatar photo
Section Editor - SUVs

Tim Harding

Having spent half a decade managing the reconditioning and marketing processes for upwards of 400 vehicles monthly, Tim is no stranger to the automotive industry. He has a deep understanding of the many different types of vehicles on the road today and brings to the table valuable insight into the industry itself.

Tim earned an Associate’s in English and a Bachelor’s in Business Administration with a Marketing specialization from Ashford University. Tim joined MotorBiscuit as an Autos Writer in 2021, and his work can also be seen at Gamepur, Overtime Heroics, and Pro Game Guides.

Tim is most inspired by the constantly changing automotive industry. He looks forward to a future when cars, particularly electric vehicles, look and operate completely differently than they do today. Tim’s content draws on this inspiration while also providing MotorBiscuit readers with useful consumer advice.