Kia’s 2025 Seltos, unveiled on May 9, is turning heads in the automotive world. While the exterior remains largely familiar, the interior has undergone significant upgrades.
From premium features in the base trim to enhanced convenience and safety equipment, the new Seltos sets a fresh benchmark for value-packed sport utility vehicles (SUVs).
Industry insiders view this update as more than just a routine refresh. It’s seen as Kia’s strategic move to elevate the Seltos’ market position. With a hybrid variant set to join the lineup later this year, the Seltos is poised to make an even bigger splash in the compact SUV segment.
Redefined: Trendy Lives Up to Its Name
The 2025 Seltos transformation begins with its entry-level Trendy trim. Now standard are a leather-wrapped heated steering wheel, illuminated glove box, and LED interior lighting, significantly boosting the cabin’s upscale feel. Moving up the range, the Prestige trim adds 18-inch wheels and rain-sensing wipers.
The Signature trim goes further with a power-adjustable passenger seat, ambient lighting, a 10.25-inch navigation system, and a smart power tailgate, enhancing the overall value proposition.
The X-Line variant stands out with exclusive black alloy wheels and exterior styling elements. Interior color options now include black, caramel, and midnight green, offering buyers more personalized choices.
Performance and Efficiency Optimized, Design Retained
Exterior styling continues to embody Kia’s Opposites United design philosophy, balancing ruggedness with sophistication in true Seltos fashion. Under the hood, the 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine impresses with 198 horsepower and 27 kg-m (approximately 195.1 lb-ft) of torque.
Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, it delivers smooth shifts and confident handling. Fuel economy is a strong suit, with a combined rating of 12.8 km/L (approximately 30.1 mpg) and real-world efficiency reaching up to 16.7 km/L (approximately 39.3 mpg), striking an excellent balance between performance and economy. Highway fuel efficiency is around 14.6 km/L (approximately 34.3 mpg).
The suspension setup, featuring MacPherson Struts up front and a coupled torsion beam axle in the rear, is tuned for a blend of comfort and agility. Four-wheel disc brakes ensure strong stopping power.
Full Hybrid Redesign in 2026
Kia is set to introduce the Seltos hybrid model by year-end. It will combine a 1.6-liter gas engine with an electric motor and a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission, targeting over 19 km/L (approximately 44.7 mpg). Rumors suggest it could be the first Hyundai Motor Group vehicle to feature e-All Wheel Drive (AWD), further distinguishing it from its gas-only counterpart.
A complete redesign is expected in early 2026. With spy shots already circulating and engine certification processes underway, development appears to be in its final stages. The 2025 Seltos represents more than a typical model year update. It’s a comprehensive enhancement that aims to exceed buyer expectations.
Despite modest price increases, the improvements in quality, convenience, and performance deliver exceptional value. As the hybrid model’s debut approaches, the Seltos is poised to cement its position as a standout SUV that offers both practical value and emotional appeal.
In related news, Kia launched a new Best Selection trim for its eco-friendly Niro hybrid SUV on May 2.
Building on the Prestige trim, the Best Selection adds advanced safety features like forward collision-avoidance assist, blind-spot collision-avoidance assist, smart cruise control, and safe exit assist. It also includes upscale touches like light-emitting diode (LED) headlights, turn signals, and reverse lights as standard.
This strategic move underscores Kia’s commitment to strengthening its position in the growing eco-friendly SUV market by offering enhanced value and more choices to consumers.
