Kia Seltos 2025: A Well-Balanced SUV

Some vehicles are too expensive, too bulky, or too fuel-hungry. Others simply fall short in terms of power, equipment, or comfort. So, it's clear that no vehicle offers the perfect balance. Finally, there are models that come very close, like the Kia Seltos 2025. The small SUV from the Korean automaker falls within a price range that suits most people. It offers a comprehensive lineup with an impressive standard equipment package. Not to mention its striking style and functional interior. In short, it's a vehicle with everything needed to please.

The Seltos benefits from a slight refresh for 2025, with some aesthetic updates and new options. Kia has made sure not to alter the current formula too much since it works very well. In fact, the Seltos is one of the most popular models in its category.

Range and Pricing

The Kia Seltos offers a fairly broad and diverse range for 2025, starting with the front-wheel-drive LX version at a starting price of $28,516, including transport and preparation fees. You'll need to add $2,000 to the bill for all-wheel drive. Then comes the front-wheel-drive EX version with a starting price of $31,616. You can get all-wheel drive for an additional $1,900 here. The EX Premium version starts at $36,816, offering an impressive set of standard features, including a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. Next is the SX version at $39,816. Finally, the X-Line version tops the range with a darker appearance, as all the chrome elements have been removed. This version starts at $42,416.

Category and Competition

You'll find rivals to the Seltos from most other manufacturers. In fact, some even offer multiple models in this segment, as Kia does. The Niro is in direct competition with the Seltos. However, the latter remains by far the more popular of the two, which can be attributed to several factors, starting with its incredible value for money.

Competitors: Buick Envista, Chevrolet Trailblazer, Honda HR-V, Hyundai Kona, Kia Niro, Mazda CX-30, Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, Mitsubishi RVR, Subaru Crosstrek, Toyota Corolla Cross, Volkswagen Taos

Design and Technology

The Kia Seltos is a natural charmer with its dynamic yet elegant look. It's a model that certainly turns heads. I particularly like the front lighting, with the headlights extending into the grille. It also offers higher ground clearance than many of its rivals.

The Seltos' interior is breathtaking, especially in the higher-end versions. Its digital instrument panel is clear and well-positioned. As for the physical controls, they are very accessible and well-placed. The quality of the finish is impeccable, and the model is much more spacious than it appears.

Performance

The Kia Seltos 2025 offers two mechanical options, starting with the classic 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with a CVT. This engine produces 146 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, which may seem modest, but it's more than enough for a vehicle of this size. Where this engine really shines is in fuel efficiency, with an average consumption of 7.6 L/100 km in front-wheel drive and 8.2 L/100 km with all-wheel drive.

If you opt for the SX or X-Line versions, you'll get a turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine. This one develops 195 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. Additionally, it comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Its average fuel consumption is 9.1 L/100 km. It's slightly more fuel-hungry than the 2.0-liter engine, but still reasonable for a vehicle of this size.

Weak Points

The CVT can behave oddly at times. The soundproofing could be improved in some versions.

Strong Points

It's a comfortable vehicle, enjoyable to drive, and packed with technology. The turbocharged engine offers particularly dynamic driving.

Signature Element

The Kia Seltos is simply the benchmark in its category. It comes very close to perfection, nothing less.

Final Word

The Seltos is proof that you don't need a rich heritage or extreme features to be appreciated by the public. In fact, it's the most well-balanced model on the market, and buyers don't ask for more. It's a model I strongly recommend considering if you're looking for a small SUV.

Jean-Sébastien Poudrier