The 2025 Kia Seltos continues to be a strong contender in the subcompact SUV category, competing with models like the Honda HR-V and Hyundai Kona by delivering a well-rounded package of style, value, and practicality. With a modern, spacious cabin, the Seltos provides a slight advantage in cargo space over many of its rivals, including the Chevrolet Trax, which tops our rankings in this segment. Buyers have a choice between two four-cylinder engines, along with front- or all-wheel drive.
The available turbocharged 1.6-liter engine delivers an energetic 195 horsepower, enhancing the SUV’s playful driving dynamics, while the base 2.0-liter, producing 146 horsepower, is serviceable but not particularly lively. Much like its distinctive sibling, the Kia Soul, the Seltos offers impressive value for its price point.
What’s New for 2025?
After a significant refresh in 2024 that introduced updated styling, interior enhancements, and increased power, the 2025 Kia Seltos receives minor feature adjustments. The EX and SX trims now come with a reverse parking distance warning, while the EX AWD trim gains a smart power liftgate and a cargo cover as standard features. Even the base S model gets a visual upgrade with newly styled 17-inch two-tone alloy wheels.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The 2025 Kia Seltos starts at $25,965, with pricing reaching $32,465 depending on trim and optional features.
- LX – $25,965
- S – $26,465
- EX – $27,465
- X-Line – $30,665
- SX – $32,465
The EX trim offers the best balance of features and value. While the SX model includes nearly every available feature, the EX is well-equipped and significantly more affordable. It boasts faux-leather upholstery, a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, a wireless smartphone charging pad, and a dual-screen infotainment system with in-dash navigation. For those opting for all-wheel drive, the EX trim also includes a smart power liftgate. The top two trims come standard with the turbocharged engine, making them ideal for drivers who prioritize performance.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Seltos is available with two engine choices: a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder generating 146 horsepower and a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder producing 195 horsepower. The base engine pairs with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), while the turbocharged option is linked to an eight-speed automatic. All-wheel drive comes standard on all trims except for the S and EX. Ride quality is firm yet mostly smooth, and the Seltos exhibits sharper handling than many of its competitors.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Despite its small footprint, the Seltos offers a spacious interior with ample room for both passengers and cargo. The cabin materials feel premium for the segment, aligning with Kia’s larger and more luxurious Telluride SUV. The SX trim includes ambient interior lighting that can synchronize with music, similar to the system in the Kia Soul. Cargo capacity is generous, with enough space to fit eight carry-on suitcases behind the rear seats and 20 with the seats folded down.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Seltos received a significant infotainment upgrade, introducing a sleek glass panel that spans two-thirds of the dashboard, housing both the digital gauge cluster and the infotainment touchscreen. This display setup is available as an option, while base models retain a smaller screen with an analog instrument cluster. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across all trims, while features like SiriusXM satellite radio and an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot are available as optional add-ons.
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