2025 Jeep Wrangler vs 2024 Kia Seltos

The 2024 Kia Seltos underwent a mid-cycle refresh, resulting in subtle yet effective updates. The exterior featured redesigned headlights and grille, with a connecting light strip between the smaller taillights, giving the vehicle a rejuvenated appearance without significant cost increases. The test model showcased a striking new “Pluton Blue” paint. Inside, the Seltos introduced a new Gentle Brown interior option, although the test model retained the standard black interior. A prominent change was the expansive digital panel covering two-thirds of the dashboard, integrating a fully digital instrument panel and a larger touchscreen infotainment system.

In contrast, the 2025 Jeep Wrangler Sport S hardtop, encountered during a rental experience, presented a black-on-black aesthetic that was less than ideal for a tropical climate. Despite the colour choice, the Wrangler's design, rooted in its military heritage, remained appealing. The Wrangler was available in various trims in Canada, including Sport, Sport S, Willys, Sahara, Rubicon, and Rubicon X. The Rubicon 392, with its powerful V8 engine, was discontinued in Canada after 2024. The Wrangler's interior, though functional, lacked sophistication, focusing on durability and off-road capability rather than luxury.

The 2024 Kia Seltos offered two engine options. The base model featured a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 146 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT). Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option. The SX and X-Line trims boasted a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 195 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a new eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The turbocharged engine provided noticeable acceleration improvements, especially in mid-range speeds, and the Seltos handled various road conditions with ease, offering a comfortable and responsive driving experience.

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler offered a choice between a 3.6-litre V6 engine with a six-speed manual transmission and a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The latter produced 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, offering better fuel efficiency and performance at higher elevations. The Wrangler's standard four-wheel drive, high ground clearance, and robust off-road capabilities made it a versatile vehicle, though its on-road handling was less refined. The Wrangler's ride was rough, and its steering felt disconnected, but its off-road prowess remained unmatched.

The 2024 Kia Seltos provided ample cargo space, with up to 1,778 litres available when the rear seats were folded, and 753 litres with the seats in use. The upright seating position offered excellent visibility and comfort for both front and rear passengers. The interior featured practical storage solutions, including in-door cupholders and cubbies, and a removable cargo cover was standard from the EX Premium trim.

In contrast, the 2025 Jeep Wrangler posed challenges for entry and exit due to its high ground clearance and narrow door openings. The interior, while comfortable, was better suited for four passengers rather than five. Storage space was limited, with small bins and nets for personal items. The Wrangler's cargo area was accessible through a tailgate and rear window, but the process was cumbersome, especially with the spare tire mounted on the tailgate. The four-door model offered 897 litres of cargo space, expandable to 2,050 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2024 Kia Seltos featured a consistent digital bezel across its trims, with screen sizes varying by model. The base infotainment system included an 8-inch touchscreen, while upper trims upgraded to a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel and touchscreen. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with physical controls for climate and audio functions. The SX and X-Line trims offered an upgraded Bose stereo system and Digital Key 2 Touch for smartphone access.

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler's Uconnect 5 infotainment system was a highlight, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, even with the roof panels removed. The Convenience Group added a 7-inch digital display and passive entry features. The Wrangler also offered Jeep Connect for off-road navigation and adventure guides, enhancing its technological appeal.

The 2024 Kia Seltos came equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard driver assistance features, including forward collision avoidance, lane keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added advanced features like adaptive cruise control and traffic sign recognition, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler introduced side curtain airbags as standard, a significant safety improvement. However, advanced driver assistance systems were mostly optional, with features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert available in higher trims. The Wrangler's crash test ratings were mixed, with a four-star frontal-impact rating and a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA.