The 2026 Kia Seltos and 2026 Chevrolet Trax are subcompact SUVs present process minor model-year updates, however they continue to be in shut competitors as inexpensive household transportation choices.
The Seltos acquired refined updates final 12 months that also carry worth into 2026. However a totally redesigned second-generation has already been unveiled, which is predicted to launch late in 2026 as a 2027 mannequin. For 2026, the Seltos introduces a front-wheel drive (FWD) choice for the bottom LX trim, additional decreasing the entry worth.
As for the Chevrolet Trax, it has few adjustments. This stasis is unremarkable, given the latest replace for 2024, which launched a number of new colours and wheel designs, together with normal ground mats. Not like the Seltos, the Trax fell sufferer to a slight worth enhance, edging the 2 fashions even nearer collectively than earlier than.
Let’s take a more in-depth take a look at some highlights of the Kia Seltos and Chevy Trax.
2026 Kia Seltos
The 2026 Kia Seltos is accessible in 4 trims: LX, S, EX, and SX. The X-Line trim from final 12 months has been discontinued. Even the entry-level model of the Seltos comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wi-fi within the base LX, wired in S, EX, and SX, oddly), a number of USB ports, an 8-inch touchscreen, keyless entry, and a dual-level cargo ground.
Kia Seltos Highlights
Out there AWD: You’ll be able to decide in to all-wheel drive (AWD) on the LX, S, and EX fashions, and it comes normal on the SX trim. You gained’t discover this on the Chevrolet Trax; it’s strictly FWD.
Twin-screen infotainment show: A ten.25-inch digital instrument show and 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen are normal in each Seltos besides the bottom LX. This glossy format wouldn’t look misplaced in different, costlier SUVs.
Optionally available turbo 4-cylinder: Many Seltos buyers will probably be happy with the entry-level 4-cylinder, which produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. But, for anybody searching for extra straight-line velocity, there’s an non-compulsory turbo 4-cylinder. It produces 190 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque at a low 1,600 rpm, and is normal on the highest SX trim.
Examine this week’s Truthful Buy Value or see the Seltos stock close to you.
2026 Chevrolet Trax
The Chevy Trax is available in 5 trims: LS, 1RS, LT, 2RS, and Activ. Commonplace gear consists of an 8-inch touchscreen, wi-fi Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, satellite tv for pc radio, a Wi-Fi hotspot, automated high-beam headlights, and two USB ports. Beneath the hood of the Trax is a turbocharged 3-cylinder that sends 137 hp to the entrance wheels through a 6-speed automated transmission.
Chevrolet Trax Highlights
Good gasoline economic system: The Trax is one in all your extra fuel-efficient SUV choices because of an EPA-rated 30 mpg mixed common in metropolis and freeway driving. Its gasoline prices are barely decrease than these of the Seltos, in response to EPA estimates.
Extra backseat legroom: The Trax and the Seltos are each on the roomier aspect of subcompact SUVs, however the Trax has a slight edge in backseat legroom by about an inch. It doesn’t sound like a lot, however when you have adults or taller children within the again seats often, they’ll respect the additional area.
Pure worth: The Chevy Trax continues to be a powerful worth play within the section, which is a part of what makes it this section’s bestseller. Whereas the Seltos and different opponents could supply attractive further choices, these looking for essentially the most inexpensive journey with utility area will probably be drawn to the Trax each time.
Examine this week’s Truthful Buy Value or see the Trax fashions on the market close to you.
Similarities
These two are evenly matched by way of mixing a whole lot of area and creature comforts right into a subcompact SUV shell. They every include user-friendly infotainment methods with clear menus and sharp graphics. Driver aids are additionally plentiful, they usually supply practically equal quantities of cargo area behind their split-folding rear seatbacks.
Pricing
The Kelley Blue Guide Truthful Buy Value for any particular person used car can range enormously in response to mileage, situation, location, and different components.
The costs right here mirror what consumers are at the moment paying for New 2026 Kia Seltos autos and New 2026 Chevrolet Trax autos in typical situation when buying from a dealership.
These costs are up to date weekly. The producer’s advised retail worth (MSRP) quoted consists of the vacation spot payment, however doesn’t embody tax, license, doc charges, and choices.
Specs
| 2026 Kia Seltos | 2026 Chevrolet Trax | |
| Common Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 2.0-liter 4-cylinder | 1.2-liter turbo 3-cylinder |
| Towing Capability | N/A | N/A |
| Horsepower | 147 hp @ 6,200 rpm | 137 hp @ 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 132 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm | 162 lb-ft @ 2,500 rpm |
| Transmission | Computerized, IVT | automated, 6-speed |
| Gasoline Economic system | 28 metropolis/34 freeway/31 mixed mpg | N/A |
| Specs | ||
| Fundamental Guarantee | 5 years/60,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Guarantee | 10 years/100,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| NHTSA General Security | 5 stars | Not rated |
| Max Seating Capability | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 103.5 inches | 106 inches |
| General Size | 172.6 inches | 178.6 inches |
| Width | 70.9 inches | N/A |
| Top | 63.6 inches | 61.4 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 34.8 ft | N/A |
| Headroom, Entrance | 40.0 inches | 39.6 inches |
| Headroom, 2nd Row | 38.4 inches | 38.1 inches |
| Legroom, Entrance | 41.4 inches | 41.9 inches |
| Legroom, 2nd Row | 38.0 inches | 38.7 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Entrance | 55.5 inches | 55.7 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 2nd Row | 54.9 inches | 54.3 inches |
| Cargo Behind Second Seat | N/A | N/A |
| Cargo With All Seats Down | 62.8 ft | 54.1 ft |
Specification desk displays the everyday configuration of autos proven.
Conclusion
With a lower cost tag, barely decrease gasoline prices, and a bit of further backseat area, the Chevy Trax makes a robust case as the worth winner on this comparability. Nonetheless, cheaper doesn’t all the time imply a greater worth. The Seltos’s many strengths, like longer guarantee protection, extra selection below the hood, and greater screens, make it one in all our favourite subcompact SUVs. The proper one for you largely comes right down to how a lot you’re seeking to spend.
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