New Kia Seltos: The compact SUV segment continues to be fiercely competitive, with manufacturers constantly raising the bar in technology, design, and features.
Kia has consistently proven itself as an innovator in this space, and the 2025 Seltos represents the most comprehensive update since the model’s introduction.
This latest iteration builds upon the strengths that made the original a global success while addressing feedback and incorporating cutting-edge features that position it at the forefront of its class.
Design Evolution: Sophisticated Confidence
The 2025 Seltos maintains its distinctive silhouette while incorporating refined design elements that create a more sophisticated presence.
The front fascia features an evolution of Kia’s “Tiger Nose” grille, now wider and more integrated with the redesigned LED headlights.
These lighting units incorporate a new signature daytime running light pattern that creates an unmistakable identity day or night.
Profile changes include more pronounced character lines, redesigned alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 18 inches depending on trim, and additional chrome or gloss black accents based on variant.
The greenhouse maintains excellent visibility while a floating roof effect created by blacked-out pillars adds a touch of visual dynamism.
The rear receives equally thoughtful updates with connected LED taillights spanning the width of the tailgate, integrated spoiler with high-mounted stop lamp, and redesigned bumper with skid plate elements that reinforce the vehicle’s SUV credentials without appearing excessive.
New paint options include Gravity Blue, Fusion Black, and the striking Mars Orange, with select markets offering two-tone roof configurations for additional personalization.
Interior: Premium Ambience and Practicality
Step inside the 2025 Seltos and you’ll immediately notice the significant improvement in material quality and design cohesion.
The dashboard features a horizontal orientation with slim air vents that visually widen the cabin, while soft-touch materials now cover more surfaces including the door panels and center console.
The centerpiece of the redesigned cabin is a dual-screen setup that combines a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system under a single piece of curved glass – a premium touch previously found only in luxury vehicles.
This arrangement creates a tech-forward impression while maintaining excellent ergonomics with physical climate controls and essential functions.
Seating comfort receives particular attention with redesigned front seats featuring improved bolstering and extended thigh support.
The driver’s seat now offers 8-way power adjustment with memory function on higher trims, while both front seats gain heating and ventilation capabilities in select markets. Rear passengers benefit from reclining seatbacks, dedicated AC vents, and USB-C charging ports.
Practicality remains a Seltos strength with thoughtfully designed storage solutions throughout the cabin and a cargo capacity of 433 liters, expandable to 1,393 liters with the 60:40 split rear seats folded.
The dual-level cargo floor allows for flexible storage arrangements, while a hands-free power tailgate on premium variants adds convenience when approaching the vehicle with arms full.
Powertrain Options: Efficiency and Performance
The 2025 Seltos offers a diverse powertrain lineup tailored to different market needs and driver preferences:
The standard powerplant in most markets remains a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder producing 115 horsepower and 144 Nm of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or continuously variable transmission. This efficient option delivers adequate performance for urban environments while achieving impressive fuel economy of 6.2L/100km in combined driving.
For those seeking more spirited performance, a revised 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder generates 160 horsepower and 253 Nm of torque – increases of 14 horsepower and 8 Nm over the previous generation.
This engine pairs exclusively with a new 7-speed dual-clutch transmission featuring faster shifts and improved efficiency compared to the earlier 7DCT.
The headline addition for 2025 is a new hybrid powertrain combining a 1.6-liter GDI engine with an electric motor and 1.32kWh lithium-ion battery.
This sophisticated system produces a combined 139 horsepower while delivering exceptional fuel economy of 4.7L/100km. The hybrid variant features a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission specifically tuned for electrified applications.
Select markets also receive a 1.5-liter diesel option developing 115 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque, appealing to customers prioritizing long-distance efficiency and torque-rich performance.
Front-wheel drive comes standard across the range, with all-wheel drive available on turbocharged and hybrid variants.
The AWD system features a center locking differential and terrain management modes including Snow, Mud, and Sand settings that optimize power delivery based on conditions.
Driving Dynamics: Refined Character
The 2025 Seltos builds upon its predecessor’s composed driving manners with meaningful refinements to the suspension and steering systems.
MacPherson struts up front and a torsion beam rear setup on FWD models (multi-link for AWD variants) receive revised tuning that improves ride quality without compromising handling stability.
Advanced high-strength steel comprises 61% of the body structure, enhancing rigidity while keeping weight in check.
This provides a solid foundation for the suspension tuning while contributing to improved NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) characteristics – a focus area for this update.
The electric power steering receives updated software that delivers more linear response and improved on-center feel, particularly at highway speeds.
Drive Mode Select now offers Eco, Normal, Sport, and Smart options that adjust throttle response, transmission shift patterns, and steering weight based on selected mode or driving behavior.
Ground clearance remains generous at 183mm, providing confidence when navigating rough roads or light off-road scenarios.
The approach and departure angles – 17 and 25 degrees respectively – allow the Seltos to tackle moderate obstacles without scraping vulnerable underbody components.
Technology Integration: Connected Innovation
The 2025 Seltos showcases Kia’s latest technology offerings, centered around the aforementioned dual-screen setup.
The intuitive infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, embedded navigation with augmented reality view, and natural voice recognition that responds to conversational commands.
Kia Connect (formerly UVO) expands its functionality with remote climate control, vehicle status monitoring, and geofencing capabilities.
The system can now receive over-the-air updates to maintain current features and add new functionality throughout the vehicle’s lifespan.
The premium 8-speaker Bose audio system delivers immersive sound quality with customized equalization for the Seltos’ cabin acoustics.
Additional technology features include a wireless smartphone charging pad with cooling function, multi-color ambient lighting with 64 selectable hues, and a panoramic sunroof that floods the cabin with natural light.
USB-C ports replace older USB-A connections throughout the cabin, providing faster charging capabilities for modern devices.
The rear seats gain a fold-down armrest with cupholders and an integrated tablet holder – thoughtful touches for family-oriented buyers.
Safety Systems: Comprehensive Protection
Safety remains paramount in the 2025 Seltos with Kia’s most comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems now available.
The foundation begins with high-strength steel reinforcement in critical areas and seven airbags including a driver’s knee airbag and side curtain airbags for both rows.
Kia Drive Wise safety technology expands to include:
Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning function
Highway Driving Assist with lane centering and adaptive cruise control
Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
Safe Exit Warning that alerts occupants of approaching traffic when opening doors
Rear Occupant Alert to prevent children or pets from being left unattended
Surround View Monitor providing 360-degree visibility during low-speed maneuvers
The new Multi-Collision Brake system automatically applies the brakes following an initial collision to prevent or mitigate secondary impacts – a feature that can significantly reduce injury severity in complex accident scenarios.
Comfort and Convenience: Thoughtful Details
The 2025 Seltos elevates the ownership experience through numerous thoughtful features that enhance daily usability.
Dual-zone automatic climate control with rear vents ensures all occupants remain comfortable regardless of external conditions.
while a cabin air purification system with PM2.5 filter removes ultrafine particles from incoming air – a particularly valuable feature in urban environments.
Remote start functionality (via key fob or smartphone app) enables pre-conditioning of the cabin temperature before entering the vehicle. The smart key system now incorporates remote parking assist on premium variants, allowing the Seltos to move forward or backward while standing outside – useful in tight parking situations.
Interior storage options abound, including a large center console bin, front seatback pockets with dedicated smartphone sleeves, door pockets sized for water bottles, and a sunglasses holder in the overhead console. The glovebox features cooling functionality to keep beverages chilled during summer drives.
For winter weather, the Seltos offers a heated steering wheel alongside the previously mentioned heated seats, while a heated windshield wiper rest area prevents ice buildup from immobilizing the wipers during freezes.
Market Positioning and Value Proposition
The 2025 Seltos maintains Kia’s tradition of offering exceptional value while reflecting the significant advancements in quality, technology, and features.
Starting prices vary by market but position the Seltos competitively against established compact SUVs while offering more standard equipment.
In North American markets, the range begins at approximately $24,990 for the entry-level LX trim and extends to $32,990 for the fully-loaded SX Prestige AWD.
The new hybrid variant positions between these extremes at around $29,990, offering attractive efficiency without excessive premium.
Warranty coverage remains a Kia strength with a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage in the United States, with similar comprehensive programs in other markets.
This industry-leading protection adds significant value while demonstrating confidence in the vehicle’s reliability.
Conclusion: Refined Evolution
The 2025 Kia Seltos represents a thoughtful evolution that builds upon established strengths while addressing feedback and incorporating contemporary technology.
Rather than radical reinvention, Kia has focused on meaningful improvements across every aspect of the vehicle – from design and materials to powertrains and technology integration.
The result is a compact SUV that feels significantly more premium than its price point suggests, offering features and refinement typically associated with vehicles a class above.
For buyers seeking a versatile, tech-forward compact SUV that balances driving enjoyment with practical considerations, the 2025 Seltos presents a compelling package that merits serious consideration.
As the compact SUV segment continues its relentless growth, the updated Seltos demonstrates Kia’s commitment to continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.
By building upon a successful foundation while addressing evolving consumer expectations, the 2025 Seltos seems poised to strengthen its position as a segment leader for years to come.