2022 Kia Seltos vs. 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer Comparison

Both the 2022 Kia Seltos and the 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer subcompact SUVs offer stylish exteriors and usable interior space for both passengers and cargo. Let’s compare them.

2022 Kia Seltos

2022 Kia Seltos Starting Price: $22,490 | Price yours or View listings near you

Above Average: Good standard safety tech; passenger and cargo space; warranty; AWD on most trims.

Below Average: More expensive than most competitors; weak base engine; DCT transmission on turbo model not always smooth.

Consensus: A stylish subcompact SUV, the 2022 Kia Seltos offers good passenger space, a number of standard safety features, and an interior of a more expensive vehicle.

2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer

2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer Starting Price: $21,600 | Price yours or View listings near you

Above Average: Choice of engines; optional all-wheel drive; stylish look; roomy for its size; good standard tech.

Below Average: Jittery ride on uneven pavement; both engines are weak; no standard cruise control.

Consensus: A stylish subcompact SUV, the 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer impresses with good space considering its size and boasts an impressive suite of standard safety and tech features.

Seltos vs. Trailblazer: Small Wonders

Kia Seltos

Slotted between the Soul and the Sportage in Kia’s lineup, the 2022 Seltos is a subcompact SUV that’s impressively roomy for its size. It has a stylish and modern exterior design that even has a bit of ruggedness thrown in. Inside, there’s good space for adults and ample cargo room. The quality of the materials used and the interior design give it the vibe of a more expensive SUV.

However, the base 146-horsepower 4-cylinder could be stouter. Acceleration to highway speeds takes some time. There’s an available 175-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder that’s much more satisfying. It pairs with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic. All-wheel drive (AWD) is standard on all but one trim.

We’re impressed by the standard features of the Seltos. New this year is a suite of safety tech features, including forward collision-avoidance assist, driver attention warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-departure warning, and lane-following assist that is standard even on the base model. Also included are three drive modes, 60/40 split backseats, and an 8-inch infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration.

There’s also a new Nightfall trim that comes with the turbo engine, all-wheel drive, black 18-inch alloy wheels and grille insert, and rugged roof rails and rocker sills.

It’s worth noting that the step-up S trim is only $200 more than the base LX, and includes a 10.25-inch touchscreen and the availability of other options such as wireless charging, a Bose premium audio system, a sunroof, and leather seats. It’s the only trim with front-wheel drive as standard and all-wheel drive as optional. Higher trims have the option of the more powerful turbocharged engine.

Chevrolet Trailblazer

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer is an affordable subcompact SUV with a lot to offer in features and amenities. However, the base engine in the 2002 Trailblazer is a 1.2-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder that is weak, with not much oomph on the highway. It’s paired with front-wheel drive and employs a CVT automatic.

There’s also a 1.3-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder with a bit more power, which sends 155 hp through a 9-speed automatic to all four wheels if you opt for AWD, or a CVT with the standard front-wheel drive. It’s a little better than the base engine, but neither will get your blood boiling. However, this kind of performance is pretty standard among subcompact SUVs.

We like the sporty exterior look of the Trailblazer, with angular lines and an optional two-tone roof. Inside, it’s comfortable and accommodating, with sufficient rear legroom for adults. Controls are clear and easy to use, and while the lower trims have cloth and harder plastics, upper trims offer leatherette and some nicer interior materials.

Standard features include a 7-inch screen with 4G LTE Wi-Fi, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Standard safety features come via the Chevy Safety Assist suite with automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, lane-departure warning, forward collision alert, and automatic high beams.

Upper trims go in different ways, with the Activ trim having a skid plate, off-road-oriented suspension, sport tires, and a distinct front look. RS goes for more of a sporty vibe. Various options add leatherette seating, an 8-inch infotainment system, more driver assist features, and a Bose premium audio system.

Similarities

Optional all-wheel drive; optional upgrade engines; fuel economy; good use of space.

2022 Kia Seltos Advantages

Cargo space; warranty; more powerful upgrade engine.

2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer Advantages

Lower starting price; higher safety rating.

Which One is Right for Me?

With a roomy interior, good cargo space, and a spunky upgrade engine, the 2022 Kia Seltos has a lot to offer. It stands out on the road, and it has more of a luxury feel than its price would suggest. Plus it comes with Kia’s outstanding 10-year powertrain warranty.

A little more rugged, a little less refined at the lower trims, the 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer also offers good use of space and some sporty style.

Ready to buy a Kia Seltos or Chevrolet Trailblazer? Shop for one on sale now near you. 

Keyword: 2022 Kia Seltos vs. 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer Comparison