2021 Kia Seltos vs. 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer Comparison

The 2021 Kia Seltos and Chevrolet Trailblazer are two brand-new small SUVs. Both offer alluring design, modern features, and a host of safety systems. Here’s how they compare.

2021 Kia Seltos

2021 Kia Seltos Starting Price: $23,110 | Price Yours or View listings near you

Above Average: All-wheel drive standard on all but one trim; impressive cargo space; available turbo engine; excellent warranty.

Below Average: Base LX model lacks active safety features in lieu of standard AWD.

Consensus: With its adventurous spirit, standout design, eager manners, and thoughtful touches, the 2021 Kia Seltos has established itself as a leader among small SUVs.

2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer

2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer Starting Price: $19,995 | Price Yours or View listings near you

Above Average: Sub-$20,000 starting price; standard active safety features; versatile and flexible cargo area.

Below Average: Only available with 3-cylinder engines; can get pricey; material quality; AWD only available with more expensive engine option.

Consensus: Stylish and well-executed, the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer is a suitable subcompact SUV with nifty cargo-carrying skills.

Seltos vs. Trailblazer: Small SUVs, Big Personalities

Kia Seltos

The Kia Seltos is a new entry that slots between the Soul and Sportage. Though small on the outside, the Seltos has best-in-class cargo space and a roomy 5-passenger cabin. This new Kia SUV also packs class-above technology like standard Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and available premium equipment such as a 10.25-inch touchscreen.

Two 4-cylinder engines are available, including a turbo with a dual-clutch transmission that makes the Seltos spry. Models with the base engine and CVT also feel quite light on their feet. The Seltos is a cinch to drive and park. This new Kia is a natural friend to the city yet composed enough for highway treks. An all-wheel drive system with a locking differential is standard on most models giving the Seltos some off-road capability. Add in a starting price of around $23,000 and Kia’s excellent warranty, and the Seltos is one of the most enticing new SUVs in years.

Chevrolet Trailblazer

The reborn Chevrolet Trailblazer also slots between two SUVs in Chevy’s lineup. It is larger than the Trax but smaller than the Equinox. An appealing trait is its sub-$20,000 base price. That price includes features like a 7-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and active safety and driver-assists including forward-collision and lane-departure warnings, plus lane-keep assist. The interior is attractive enough, but the materials aren’t as nice as others in this segment. There’s a fair amount of passenger and cargo space, and this is a good SUV all around.

A nifty feature is the ability to fold the front passenger seat to haul items measuring up to 8.5 feet long. The Trailblazer power comes from 3-cylinder engines. While the tiny 1.2-liter base engine is the most affordable, we’d opt for the 1.3-liter. You’ll get better fuel economy and more power. You also must choose this engine if you want all-wheel drive and a 9-speed automatic vs. the standard front-drive CVT. Note that top trim levels can be expensive.

Similarities

Good cargo space for their size; plenty of active safety features. Both come from South Korea.

Kia Seltos Advantages

Long warranty; AWD standard on most models; 4-cylinder engines.

Chevrolet Trailblazer Advantages

Lower starting price; ability to fit 8.5-foot-long cargo item.

Final recommendation

We give the nod to the Seltos in this match because all models use a more refined 4-cylinder engine vs. the 3-cylinder in the Trailblazer. We also like that most models come with AWD – a feature only available on higher-cost Trailblazer trims. The Seltos also outclasses the Chevy in total cargo space and available tech.

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