S E 2021 LT KIA O S

Automakers seem bent on filling every nook and cranny in their utility-vehicle lineups, as the trend toward such models shows no signs of abating. Among this group is Kia, which has added the Seltos.

The name, in case you’re wondering, is derived from

Celtos, son of Hercules in Greek Mythology.

The vehicle squeezes between the smaller Soul (four inches shorter) and the larger and more mainstream Sportage (about seven inches longer).

Although it shares the Hyundai Kona platform (Kia is a division of Hyundai), the two models go their own ways in terms of styling. The rugged-looking Seltos has considerably more carrying capacity, too, whether the rear seat is in upright or folded flat. The Seltos also displays more than a hint of commonality with the full-size Telluride, including the “tiger nose” grille that fronts the rounded front bumper and hood.

The sense of ruggedness carries over to the generous 7.2-inch ground clearance as well as the front and rear skid plates, ensuring that the Seltos can take on rougher terrain than many of its competitors. The interior and dashboard are pretty much straightforward, but a thick steering wheel and equally substantial gear shifter are not normally associated with smaller utility vehicles. The standard 8.0inch touch-screen and the available 10.25-inch unit protrude above the fresh-air vents, which some drivers might find restricts their outward vision.

In back, the split-folding rear seat also reclines. Behind it, the cargo floor can be lowered somewhat to accommodate taller objects. Powertrain choices are the same as those found in the Kona: A 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 146 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque; and an optional 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that puts out 175 horsepower and 195 pound-feet.

For both, selectable Normal,

Eco and Sport settings alter the engine, transmission and steering performance.

A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is linked to the 2.0, while the turbo 1.6 gets a seven-speed automatic.

Fuel economy for the front-wheeldrive 2.0 is rated at 29 mpg in the city, 34 on the highway and 31 combined.

On-demand all-wheel-drive is optional for the base Seltos S 2.0, but is standard for the LX, S 1.6 T, EX and SX trims. The system comes with a center-locking differential that, when engaged, splits the torque equally between the front and rear wheels, providing more traction for traveling off road.

Torque vectoring, another AWD inclusion, applies light braking force to the inside wheels when turning, which Kia says increases vehicle control.

AWD-equipped models also get independent rear suspensions, while