Kia Seltos: A Subcompact SUV that Packs a Punch
**The Kia Seltos: Affordable and Feature-Packed**
The Kia Seltos has certainly made a name for itself in the subcompact SUV segment. As one of our top-recommended vehicles in this category, it offers an exceptional value proposition. With its recent facelift for the 2024 model year, the Seltos has become even more impressive. Not only does it provide ample passenger and cargo space for its price range, but it also comes with outstanding technology features and an attractive interior.
**Setting Itself Apart from the Competition**
Despite facing tough competition from the likes of the Chevy Trax and Buick Envista, the Kia Seltos manages to hold its own in terms of value. In fact, it outshines its rivals by offering a wider range of equipment options, including the availability of all-wheel drive. Moreover, the Seltos boasts a higher-quality cabin compared to its competitors, further enhancing its appeal. Additionally, Kia ups the ante by providing an engine upgrade option that is hard to come by in this segment.
**Interior Upgrades for 2025**
One area where the Kia Seltos has received criticism is its interior materials, which consist mainly of hard plastics. However, for the 2025 model year, Kia promises improvements in this aspect. Although the automaker has not divulged specific details, they have mentioned an “updated interior” with “improved materials and finishes.” This is great news for potential buyers who were deterred by the previous interior quality.
**Pricing and Trim-Specific Equipment**
When it comes to pricing, the 2025 Kia Seltos sees some slight changes. The MSRP ranges from no increase on the entry-level S trim to a $1,000 increase on the top-of-the-line SX trim. The prices for the different trims, after factoring in the $1,375 destination charge, are as follows:
– LX AWD: $25,965 ($100 increase)
– S FWD: $26,465 (No change)
– EX FWD: $27,465 ($200 increase)
– S AWD: $27,965 (No change)
– EX AWD: $29,665 ($200 increase)
– X-Line: $30,665 ($500 increase)
– SX: $32,465 ($1,000 increase)
These price increases are justified by the addition of trim-specific equipment. For instance, the EX and SX trims now come standard with Park Distance Warning when in Reverse, ensuring enhanced safety. Additionally, buyers opting for the EX AWD or SX trims will enjoy a powered hatch, while the EX AWD also includes a cargo cover. Another notable addition to the EX trim is a Power Sunroof package, further enhancing the overall driving experience.
**Changes in the S Trim**
While the S trim does not see any pricing changes, it does lose one of the Seltos’ most appealing features found in other trims. Instead of the dual 10.25-inch displays for the configurable gauge cluster and infotainment screen, the S trim reverts to the setup found in the base LX trim. This consists of a 4.25-inch TFT screen for the speedometer and tachometer, paired with an eight-inch infotainment screen. However, to compensate for this loss, Kia has added a power driver’s window with auto up and down functionality to the S trim. Additionally, new two-tone 17-inch wheels add a touch of style to this trim level.
**Engine Options and Performance**
The engine options for the Kia Seltos remain unchanged for the 2025 model year. The LX, S, and EX trims are powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 146 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. This power is sent to the wheels through a continuously variable transmission. On the other hand, the X-Line and SX trims offer a more spirited driving experience with a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine produces 195 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While the turbocharged engine provides more power, it is important to note that it also consumes more fuel.
**Conclusion**
With its 2025 model year updates, the Kia Seltos continues to impress as a subcompact SUV that offers exceptional value for the price. The improvements in interior materials address one of the main criticisms of the previous model, making the Seltos an even more attractive choice for buyers. The addition of trim-specific equipment and features adds further appeal, ensuring that each trim level has something unique to offer. Whether it’s the affordability of the S trim or the enhanced performance of the X-Line and SX trims, the Kia Seltos is a worthy contender in the competitive subcompact SUV segment.
