What’s the best way to choose between the 2024 Chevy Trailblazer and 2024 Kia Seltos? Our comparison guide takes a look at these small SUVs’ high points, leaving you to decide which model best suits your priorities. Let’s dive in.
Key Takeaways
- With its lower MSRP, the 2024 Trailblazer can give you the best deal on a new subcompact SUV!
- Both models earn up to 31 mpg combined, depending on powertrain configuration.
- When it comes to crash-test scores, the Trailblazer has maximum appeal.
- Whether you want a basic model or an upscale version of these crossovers, both the Trailblazer and Seltos offer a range of options to suit your budget and personal tastes.
Both subcompact SUVs are a great deal, but the 2024 Trailblazer, starting at $23,100, has extra money-saving potential. On the other hand, the 2024 Seltos isn’t much more expensive, with an MSRP of $24,490.
Best Fuel Economy: It’s a Tie!
Although these SUVs don’t deliver the same exact EPA ratings, they come pretty close. The Chevy Trailblazer, which offers two engine options, earns up to 31 mpg combined (29 city/33 highway). The Trailblazer’s optional — and more powerful — 1.3-liter engine is actually the thriftiest option. Of course, the base 1.2-liter engine is also pretty thrifty, earning 30 mpg combined (29 city/31 highway).
The 2024 Trailblazer’s powertrain specs include:
- Turbocharged 1.2L three-cylinder engine (137 horsepower, 162 lb-ft of torque) and continuously variable transmission
- Optional turbo 1.3L three-cylinder engine (155 hp, 174 lb-ft) and nine-speed automatic
- Front-wheel drive
- Optional all-wheel drive (1.3L engine only)
The Kia Seltos, which also offers two engine options, earns its best EPA ratings with its base engine. This crossover earns up to 31 mpg combined (28 city/34 highway). The more powerful 1.6-liter engine, which is only available with all-wheel drive, earns an estimated 26 mpg combined (25 city/27 highway).
The 2024 Seltos’s powertrain specs include:
- 2.0L four-cylinder engine (146 hp, 132 lb-ft) and continuously variable transmission
- Turbo 1.6L four-cylinder engine (195 hp, 195 lb-ft) and eight-speed automatic
- Front-wheel drive
- Front-wheel drive
Safety: 2024 Chevy Trailblazer
Both SUVs are trustworthy, but the Trailblazer enhances your peace of mind with its perfect five-star government crash-test scores. It’s also notable that, as of this writing, the Trailblazer hasn’t had any recalls. The Seltos, on the other hand, hasn’t been rated in government crash tests, and it’s already had a couple of recalls.
However, both the Trailblazer and the Seltos earned top scores in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s crash tests. And both models come standard with advanced safety tech, including forward collision mitigation and lane-keeping assistance.
Luxury Options: It’s a Tie!
The Trailblazer offers four trim models, the LS, LT, Activ, and RS, and levels of comfort and luxury for every budget. Although the Activ is designed to upgrade trail performance (with features like all-terrain tires and an off-road-tuned suspension), it also adds some style, with a two-tone roof, faux-leather upholstery, and a heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel. The most luxurious option is the RS. As the top-tier Trailblazer, it adds exclusive styling, with dark chrome exterior trim and red interior accents.
The Kia Seltos is available as five trim models, the LX, S, EX, X-Line, and SX, which deliver increasing style and luxury as you move up the list. The sporty X-Line features a black roof and faux-leather upholstery. Move up to the top-tier SX for more of a fully loaded experience, with upgrades that include a Bose premium sound system and optional front-seat ventilation.
Your New Subcompact SUV
Both small crossovers have major appeal, especially if you’re looking for a thrifty ride or a little extra luxury. But the 2024 Chevy Trailblazer gives you the edge when it comes to a budget-friendly MSRP and top-of-the-line safety scores. Not to mention the best combination of power and fuel efficiency!