With 2023 Kia SUVs selling like hotcakes, you wonder if the brand will repeat this feat next year when the 2024 models come out. One SUV, the Kia Seltos, is offering some inexpensive trim levels, which might appeal to many drivers. However, one of its models is a bit confusing. Which one is that, what does it offer, and which 2024 Kia Seltos trim should you buy? Let’s take a look. 

The 2024 Kia Seltos trim that’s confusing

The most confusing trim is the EX model, which begins at $25,790, according to Kia. It’s strange that you pay almost $1,000 more than the S trim, but it doesn’t have as many paint color options as the S version. 

For the lower trim, you get Steel Gray, Gravity Gray, Mars Orange, Fusion Black, Neptune Blue, and Snow White Pearl. It also has your choice of four two-tone color setups as well. 

With the EX model, you get Steel Gray, Gravity Gray, Dark Ocean Blue, Pluton Blue, Snow White Pearl, and Fusion Black. Notably missing are the two-tone options available for the lower trim. You don’t get much of a variety of colors there. What does it offer that makes paying the extra $1,000 worth it? Let’s take a look.

What does the EX trim offer?

The 2024 Kia Seltos EX model offers much of what you get with the LX and the S trims, but there are a few other features introduced in this version. The EX offers the same 17-inch alloy wheels as the S, but they’re machine finished versus the S trim’s dark gray finish. 

With the EX version, you will also get Solar Control Glass and you can choose a sunroof as an available feature, neither of which is offered on the S model. Both trims have a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine generating 146 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque. Paired with this unit is a continuously variable transmission on both trims, and each one earns 31 mpg combined for the FWD version and 29 mpg for the AWD model. 

As for the interior, the EX model gives you Syntex seat trim, 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat with two-way power lumbar support, and standard heated front seats. The S trim offers the same heated seats but only as an optional feature. You also get a wireless phone charger for your devices. 

Which 2024 Kia Seltos trim should you get?

Looking at the S trim of the 2024 Kia Seltos, you get a fair amount of features for a pretty inexpensive price of $24,990.  If you want to spend more money, there are a handful of available features to include in your purchase. 

However, many of those come with the EX trim, which you’d only pay about $1,000 more for. 

Keep in mind, though, you won’t get as many paint color choices if you go with the EX version. If the color isn’t important to you, the EX is the better bet, with a few more features under your belt. 

If you can spend about $3,000 more, the X-Line is a great option because you get a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 195 hp and 195 lb-ft. Paired with it is an eight-speed automatic transmission, which enables the vehicle to get approximately 26 mpg combined. 

It also comes with 18-inch gloss-black alloy wheels, black, sport-designed roof rails, and a gunmetal-colored front grille. Also, as a standard feature on the X-Line, you get the Dynamax all-wheel drive system with a center lock. This includes many of the features you get with the S and the EX models for a starting price of $28,690. 

The 2024 Kia Seltos trim levels include the S, EX, and X-Line, as well as the LX and the SX. With a handful of extra features, the EX would be worth the price, but if you can spend a bit more, the X-Line trim offers some useful items.