Kia Seltos: Price, Specs, Features and Pros and Cons
The Kia Seltos is a small SUV for buyers who want more passenger and cargo space than a typical subcompact crossover without moving to a larger, more expensive vehicle. The all-new US-market 2027 Seltos adds a roomier cabin, updated technology, available all-wheel drive, and a choice of efficient or more powerful gasoline engines.
It is a practical fit for commuters, small families, and drivers who want an easy-to-park SUV with useful ground clearance. The base engine prioritizes affordability and fuel economy, while the turbocharged X-Line SX is the choice for buyers who want stronger highway performance and more premium equipment.
This page covers the gasoline-powered Seltos currently on sale. Kia has announced an upcoming Seltos Hybrid, but its final US pricing and EPA ratings were not available when this page was updated.
WheelPedia Rating: 7.9/10
The Kia Seltos earns a 7.9/10 WheelPedia Rating for its roomy interior, useful cargo area, broad AWD availability, strong feature offering, and competitive pricing. Its biggest compromises are a slow base engine, a turbo engine limited to the top trim, and the lack of published IIHS or NHTSA crash-test ratings for the all-new generation.
| Rating Category | Score | Weight |
| Safety | 7.5/10 | 20% |
| Reliability and Ownership | 8.0/10 | 15% |
| Performance and Driving | 7.0/10 | 15% |
| Comfort and Practicality | 8.8/10 | 15% |
| Efficiency | 7.8/10 | 15% |
| Features and Technology | 8.5/10 | 10% |
| Price and Value | 8.5/10 | 10% |
| Overall WheelPedia Rating | 7.9/10 | — |
See how WheelPedia rates cars for the full scoring method.
Key Highlights
- Redesigned for 2027 with more interior room, updated displays, and improved refinement.
- Starts from $24,990 MSRP in the US, before destination, taxes, registration, and dealer charges.
- Standard 2.0-liter engine produces 147 horsepower.
- X-Line SX uses a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine with 190 horsepower.
- Front-wheel drive is standard on LX, S, and EX trims; AWD is available across much of the lineup.
- Best standard-engine fuel economy is an EPA-estimated 30 mpg combined.
- Offers 27.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 64.2 cubic feet with them folded.
- X-Line trims add a more rugged appearance and up to 8.1 inches of ground clearance.
- The new generation had not yet received published IIHS or NHTSA ratings at the time of writing.
- Best for buyers who need a practical small SUV with available AWD and more space than many direct rivals.
Quick Specifications
| Specification | Kia Seltos |
| Vehicle type | Small SUV |
| Seating capacity | 5 |
| Standard engine | 2.0L four-cylinder |
| Standard output | 147 hp / 132 lb-ft |
| Available engine | 1.6L turbocharged four-cylinder |
| Turbo output | 190 hp / 195 lb-ft |
| Transmission | IVT automatic or 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD standard on selected trims; AWD available or standard depending on trim |
| Best fuel economy | Up to 28 city / 33 highway / 30 combined mpg |
| Cargo space behind rear seats | 27.8 cu. ft. |
| Maximum cargo space | 64.2 cu. ft. |
| Length | 174.4 in. |
| Width | 72.0 in. |
| Height | 63.0 in. |
| Wheelbase | 105.9 in. |
| Maximum ground clearance | Up to 8.1 in. |
Expert tip:
The EX FWD is the best choice for most buyers who do not need all-wheel drive. It brings more comfort and technology than lower trims without the price jump to the turbocharged X-Line SX. Choose the S AWD if all-weather traction matters more than luxury features.
About the Kia Seltos
The Seltos sits between the smallest city-focused SUVs and larger compact crossovers. Its main appeal is simple: it gives buyers useful rear-seat room and cargo capacity in a package that is still easy to park and affordable to run.
The 2027 redesign gives the Seltos a more squared-off shape, a more modern dashboard, and a cabin that feels more substantial than the outgoing generation. It is not a replacement for a larger family SUV, but it has enough space for daily errands, weekend luggage, and occasional road trips.
The model range has two distinct personalities. Most trims use the 2.0-liter engine and are aimed at value-focused buyers. The X-Line SX adds a turbocharged engine, standard AWD, and more upscale equipment for drivers willing to spend more.
Price and Trims
These are 2027 US base MSRPs, excluding the $1,495 destination charge. Equipment, options, and final dealer pricing can vary.
| Trim | Starting MSRP | Engine | Drivetrain | Key Reason to Choose |
| LX FWD | $24,990 | 2.0L, 147 hp | FWD | Lowest entry price |
| S FWD | $26,390 | 2.0L, 147 hp | FWD | More everyday technology and convenience features |
| LX AWD | $26,690 | 2.0L, 147 hp | AWD | Lowest-cost AWD Seltos |
| S AWD | $28,090 | 2.0L, 147 hp | AWD | Best basic all-weather value |
| EX FWD | $28,390 | 2.0L, 147 hp | FWD | Best balance of comfort and price |
| X-Line S AWD | $28,990 | 2.0L, 147 hp | AWD | Rugged styling and added clearance |
| EX AWD | $30,090 | 2.0L, 147 hp | AWD | Comfort-focused AWD choice |
| X-Line SX AWD | $32,790 | 1.6L turbo, 190 hp | AWD | Turbo performance and the most equipment |
The EX FWD makes the most sense for buyers in mild climates who want a better-equipped Seltos without paying for the turbocharged top model. Buyers in snowy or wet regions should look closely at the S AWD or EX AWD.
The X-Line SX is the only trim to choose if quicker acceleration matters. It is considerably more expensive, but the turbocharged engine makes highway driving noticeably easier.
Engine, Performance, and Driving Experience
Most Seltos trims use a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with Kia’s intelligent variable transmission, a type of automatic transmission designed mainly to improve fuel economy.
This engine is adequate for commuting, errands, and relaxed highway use. It feels less confident when the SUV is fully loaded, climbing steep grades, or making quick passing moves. Buyers who regularly drive with four passengers or spend a lot of time at highway speeds should test it carefully before deciding.
The X-Line SX uses a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. This is the more satisfying option for merging, passing, and carrying passengers or cargo.
0–60 MPH Performance
Kia does not publish official 0–60 mph times for the Seltos.
Independent testing has placed the base 2.0-liter model at roughly 11.0 seconds from 0–60 mph. That is slow for a modern small SUV, although it remains usable for normal urban driving.
Independent testing of the turbocharged X-Line SX AWD recorded a 0–60 mph time of about 8.2 seconds. It is not a performance SUV, but it provides a meaningful improvement in everyday responsiveness.
Fuel Economy
| Model | EPA-Estimated City / Highway / Combined Fuel Economy |
| LX, S, and EX FWD | 28 / 33 / 30 mpg |
| LX, S, and EX AWD | 26 / 30 / 28 mpg |
| X-Line S AWD | 26 / 30 / 28 mpg |
| X-Line SX AWD | 24 / 30 / 26 mpg |
The front-wheel-drive 2.0-liter models are the best choice for buyers focused on fuel costs. AWD reduces efficiency modestly, while the turbocharged X-Line SX trades additional fuel use for better acceleration.
The Seltos is efficient for a gasoline SUV, but buyers who drive mostly in stop-and-go traffic and want lower fuel consumption should also compare hybrid alternatives such as the Kia Niro or Toyota Corolla Cross.
Actual fuel economy varies with weather, speed, driving style, passenger load, tires, and use of heating or air conditioning.
Interior, Comfort, and Technology
The redesigned Seltos has a more polished cabin than the earlier model. The dashboard layout is straightforward, the driving position is appropriately high for an SUV, and the rear seat is more useful than many buyers expect in this size class.
Standard and available features include:
- Digital instrument display
- 12.3-inch central touchscreen on selected trims
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Bluetooth connectivity
- USB-C charging ports
- Rearview monitor
- Available wireless phone charging
- Available heated front seats
- Available ventilated front seats
- Available panoramic sunroof
- Available Harman Kardon premium audio system
- Available dual-zone automatic climate control
- Available surround-view monitor
Lower trims focus on value, while upper trims provide the features that make the cabin feel more premium. Buyers should compare equipment lists closely: screen size, seat comfort features, premium audio, and parking cameras vary by trim.
Dimensions, Cargo, and Practicality
| Dimension | Measurement |
| Length | 174.4 in. |
| Width | 72.0 in. |
| Height | 63.0 in. |
| Wheelbase | 105.9 in. |
| Rear legroom | About 39.0 in. |
| Cargo space behind rear seats | 27.8 cu. ft. |
| Maximum cargo space | 64.2 cu. ft. |
| Seating | 5 passengers |
Cargo room is one of the Seltos’ strongest points. The space behind the rear seats is useful for groceries, luggage, sports equipment, and a compact stroller. Folding the rear seats creates enough room for larger household items and weekend trips.
Rear-seat room is also a strength. Adults can fit more comfortably than they can in several smaller SUVs, though a larger compact SUV remains the better choice for families who frequently carry three people in the back.
Exterior Design
The 2027 Seltos has a more upright and squared-off look than the previous generation. It keeps a compact footprint, but the new shape gives it a stronger SUV presence.
- LX and S trims have the most straightforward, value-oriented appearance.
- EX adds more comfort-focused details and a more upscale presentation.
- X-Line S brings darker trim, more rugged styling, and increased ground clearance.
- X-Line SX combines the X-Line appearance with the turbocharged engine and top-level equipment.
The X-Line models are a good fit for buyers who prefer a more outdoors-oriented look, but they are not intended as serious off-road vehicles.
Safety Features and Ratings
Standard and available driver-assistance systems vary by trim. Features offered across the lineup include:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Lane Following Assist
- Driver Attention Warning
- Rear Occupant Alert
- Rearview monitor
- Available Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Available Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Available Smart Cruise Control
- Available Highway Driving Assist
- Available surround-view monitor
- Available front and rear parking sensors
The 2027 Seltos is an all-new generation, and published IIHS and NHTSA crash-test ratings were not available at the time of writing. Buyers should not assume that earlier-generation Seltos results apply to this model.
This lack of current independent crash-test data is the main reason the Seltos does not receive a higher safety score. Before buying, check for updated IIHS and NHTSA ratings and confirm the safety equipment fitted to the exact trim.
Reliability, Warranty, and Ownership
The Seltos has a straightforward ownership case: manageable size, broad dealer support, conventional gasoline engines, and Kia’s long original-owner powertrain warranty. However, it is still a new generation, so long-term reliability data for the 2027 model is limited.
The 2.0-liter engine is the simpler choice for buyers prioritizing lower running costs. The turbocharged engine adds stronger performance but also more mechanical complexity and higher fuel use.
| Coverage | Length |
| Basic limited warranty | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
| Powertrain limited warranty for original owners | 10 years / 100,000 miles |
| Powertrain coverage for later owners | Usually 5 years / 60,000 miles |
| Anti-perforation warranty | 5 years / 100,000 miles |
| Roadside assistance | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
Follow the recommended maintenance schedule and check the VIN for open recalls before purchasing, particularly if buying a used example in future years.
Pros and Cons
What We Like
- Useful rear-seat and cargo space for a small SUV
- Broad availability of all-wheel drive
- Modern interior technology
- Good value across most of the range
- X-Line trims offer extra ground clearance and more distinctive styling
- Turbocharged top trim is much quicker than base-engine models
- Long original-owner powertrain warranty
- Easy size for city driving and parking
What We Don’t Like
- Base 2.0-liter engine is slow under hard acceleration
- Turbocharged engine is limited to the most expensive trim
- AWD trims use more fuel
- No published IIHS or NHTSA ratings yet for the all-new generation
- Top trim approaches the price of larger compact SUVs
- Not a serious off-road SUV
- Buyers wanting a hybrid need to wait for the announced Seltos Hybrid
Competitors
The Seltos should be compared with other small SUVs based on your priorities.
- The Toyota Corolla Cross is worth considering for buyers who prioritize available hybrid efficiency and Toyota’s ownership reputation.
- The Kia Niro is the stronger Kia choice for fuel economy, though it does not offer AWD.
- The Hyundai Kona is a close alternative with similar size, technology, and available turbocharged performance.
- The Honda HR-V is worth considering for buyers who prioritize a practical cabin and a calmer driving experience.
- The Mazda CX-30 suits drivers who value handling and cabin design.
- The Subaru Crosstrek is a strong alternative for buyers who want standard AWD and more confidence on rough roads.
- The Kia Sportage makes more sense if you need more rear-seat room and cargo capacity than the Seltos can provide.
Related Content
If you are choosing between a small SUV and a more efficient hatchback-style crossover, compare the Seltos with the Kia Niro.
Before deciding whether to buy new, read our guide to new vs. used cars. First-time buyers may also find how to buy your first car useful.
If you plan to finance, understand how car financing works and consider arranging car loan preapproval before visiting a dealership.
Should You Buy the Kia Seltos?
Buy the Kia Seltos if you want a small SUV with a useful cargo area, comfortable rear seating, available AWD, and a price that remains below many larger compact SUVs.
Choose the EX FWD if you want the best everyday balance of price, equipment, and fuel economy. Choose the S AWD if winter traction is important and you want to keep the price reasonable. The X-Line S AWD makes sense for buyers who value its added clearance and styling, while the X-Line SX AWD is the right choice for drivers who want the turbo engine and premium features.
Skip the Seltos if quick acceleration is important but the top trim is beyond your budget, if you need confirmed crash-test ratings before buying, or if you want hybrid efficiency immediately.
FAQs
How much does the Kia Seltos cost?
The 2027 Kia Seltos starts from $24,990 MSRP in the US before destination, taxes, registration, options, and dealer charges.
Does the Kia Seltos have all-wheel drive?
Yes. AWD is available on LX, S, and EX trims and standard on X-Line models.
Is the Kia Seltos good on gas?
Yes. Front-wheel-drive 2.0-liter models are rated at up to an EPA-estimated 30 mpg combined. AWD and turbocharged models use more fuel.
Is the Kia Seltos fast?
Most Seltos models are not quick. The standard 147-hp engine is designed for economy, while the 190-hp turbocharged X-Line SX provides noticeably stronger acceleration.
Does the Kia Seltos have a turbocharged engine?
Yes, but only the X-Line SX AWD uses the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine. It produces 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque.
How much cargo space does the Kia Seltos have?
The Seltos has 27.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 64.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.
Does the Kia Seltos have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. The current Seltos supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though exact display size and related technology features vary by trim.
Is the Kia Seltos safe?
The Seltos offers useful standard and available driver-assistance systems. However, the all-new 2027 generation had not yet received published IIHS or NHTSA crash-test ratings when this page was updated.
Is the Kia Seltos available as a hybrid?
Kia has announced a Seltos Hybrid for the US, but final pricing, EPA ratings, and availability details were not available at the time of writing.
Does the Kia Seltos have a third row?
No. The Kia Seltos has two rows and seats up to five passengers.
Can the Kia Seltos tow?
Kia does not list the US-market Seltos as a towing-focused vehicle. Buyers who need to tow should choose a vehicle with a clearly published tow rating and the correct factory equipment.
Final Verdict
The Kia Seltos is a strong small-SUV option for buyers who want more room and versatility than many subcompact crossovers provide. Its cargo space, rear-seat usability, available AWD, and well-equipped upper trims make it easy to recommend for practical daily use.
The main decision is whether you can accept the standard engine. It is economical but slow, particularly with passengers or cargo. The turbocharged X-Line SX solves that problem, though its price moves into larger-SUV territory.
For most buyers, the EX FWD is the most balanced Seltos. For drivers in snowy climates, the S AWD is the better value. Wait for updated independent crash-test ratings if safety performance is your first priority.
Prices, specifications, fuel-economy estimates, safety ratings, equipment, and availability can change by trim, model year, and market.