2022 Kia Seltos vs 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid, positioned between the Lexus UX and RX, featured a design that was both distinct and familiar. Its sharp edges and streamlined profile gave it a unique look, though the styling had remained largely unchanged over the years. The NX shared its platform with the previous-generation Toyota RAV4, which made it feel somewhat outdated compared to its sibling. The F Sport Black Line model added a sporty touch with a larger mesh grille, dark-finish 18-inch wheels, and a striking Grecian Water blue paint. Inside, the NX's design, once radical, had become familiar, with a stepped center console and a lack of traditional luxury materials. The Black Line treatment added sporty elements like an F Sport heated steering wheel and aluminum pedals, but the overall material quality felt more mainstream than luxury.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia Seltos, positioned between the Soul and Sportage, offered a more modern and practical design. The Nightfall Edition featured matte-black 18-inch alloy wheels, a turbocharged engine, and a black grille, giving it a robust appearance. Inside, the Seltos boasted a stylish interior with contrast-color dashboard panels and metallic accents, though it was marred by shiny hard plastics. The controls were logically arranged, with intuitive knobs and buttons. Despite some quirks, the Seltos was larger, more refined, and more powerful than many of its competitors, making it a compelling choice in its segment.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a total of 194 horsepower. It came standard with all-wheel drive, but its performance was more focused on fuel efficiency than excitement. The NX Hybrid accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 9.1 seconds, with a top speed of 112 mph. The sport-tuned suspension in the Black Line package improved handling, but the steering felt numb, and the drivetrain struggled with a heavy foot. Drive modes like Normal, Eco, and Sport offered little difference in performance.

The 2022 Kia Seltos offered two engine options. The base models had a 2.0-liter engine with 146 horsepower, while the Nightfall Edition featured a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine with 175 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. The turbo engine, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, provided a more engaging drive. The Seltos offered Normal, Sport, and Smart driving modes, with Smart mode balancing efficiency and responsiveness. The AWD system included a Lock function for better traction, though the suspension tuning was less impressive, leading to a bouncy ride on uneven roads.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid had limited interior space, with the least front headroom in its segment and cramped rear seats. The front seats were comfortable, with standard 10-way power adjustment and optional heated and ventilated features. The sloping roofline and thick rear pillars hindered visibility, but large mirrors helped. Cargo space was limited, with 16.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 53.7 cubic feet with them folded. A power-folding second row and power liftgate were available but not standard.

The 2022 Kia Seltos excelled in interior space, offering easy entry and exit, generous rear legroom, and ample cargo space. The Nightfall Edition featured cloth upholstery with simulated leather bolsters, heated front seats, and a single-zone automatic climate control system. Rear passengers enjoyed air conditioning vents, a USB port, and a center armrest with cupholders. Cargo space measured 26.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 62.8 cubic feet with them folded, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, with an 8-inch display and an awkward Remote Touch Interface touchpad. While it offered Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility, the system felt dated and difficult to use. The base audio system was underwhelming, with an optional 14-speaker Mark Levinson system available on higher trims.

The 2022 Kia Seltos featured a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system on higher trims, with Bluetooth, navigation, satellite radio, and a six-speaker stereo. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto required a cable connection. The system was intuitive, with physical knobs and buttons for easy access. However, the voice recognition system was frustrating, and the purple theme color was unusual.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid received a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and more. The only notable omission was a 360-degree camera system.

The 2022 Kia Seltos offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high beams. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Seltos received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA.