The Kia Seltos, situated between the Soul and Sportage, received a facelift for the 2025 model year. However, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) deemed the 2024 model deficient in six areas, including the updated moderate overlap front crash test.
The IIHS uses a four-tier rating system: good, acceptable, marginal, and poor. The Seltos fell short of a good rating, with the driver potentially suffering leg or foot injuries in a moderate overlap front crash. Additionally, the rear passenger’s shoulder belt moved excessively upward, compromising safety.
Further shortcomings included a marginal rating in the updated side impact test, acceptable front crash prevention performance in vehicle to pedestrian scenarios, and varying headlight performance. The seatbelt reminder volume was also deemed insufficient, and the LATCH system’s lower anchors were too deep in the outboard rear seats, hindering child seat installation.
Due to these deficiencies, the IIHS could not award the Seltos the Top Safety Pick. While the LATCH system and belt reminder system are not part of the award criteria, they are important considerations for many consumers.
The Kia Seltos, a compact SUV, offers a compelling combination of features and value. While the 2025 model year may have introduced improvements, the current iteration still provides a solid package. Standard all wheel drive on the base LX trim and a suite of nine driver-assistance features make it a practical choice.
Surprisingly, the S and EX trims opt for front-wheel drive by default, with all wheel drive available as an upgrade. For those seeking top-tier performance and features, the X-Line and SX models offer all-wheel drive standards and a more powerful turbocharged engine.
The Seltos’ all wheel drive system, called Dynamax, provides enhanced cornering and stability. Under the hood, the LX to EX trims feature a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine, while the X-Line and SX level up to a turbocharged 1.6-liter.
The 2.0-liter engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission, while the 1.6-liter is mated to an eight-speed automatic. Fuel economy varies based on engine, transmission, and drive configuration, ranging from 31 MPG to 25 MPG.
