Tuesday, 08 July 2025 16:31

Kia Seltos S 2025 - review

Kia Seltos S 2025 Kia Seltos S 2025 Kia

Kia’s updated 2025 Seltos S has entered the compact SUV segment with practical equipment, familiar mechanicals and region-specific features. As the entry-level variant, it aims to balance affordability with usable specifications across markets. While the model is not officially offered across all European countries, it plays a role in the United Kingdom and features significantly in the United States and Australia. This report outlines verified technical specifications, pricing and standard equipment relevant to buyers in these regions.

Table of contents:

What Does the 2025 Kia Seltos S Include for the UK Market?

Although the Kia Seltos is not sold widely across continental Europe, it remains relevant to UK buyers, particularly through grey imports and second-hand availability. In regions aligned with UK regulations, the Seltos S reflects its global configuration with some adjustments. The S trim, as available in similarly equipped right-hand-drive markets, includes:

  • 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine
  • CVT automatic transmission
  • Front-wheel drive
  • 8.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert

The engine delivers 110 kW (149 PS) and 180 Nm of torque, offering reliable performance for everyday urban and suburban driving.

Luggage capacity is 468 litres, expanding to 1428 litres with the rear seats folded flat. This makes the model well-suited for small families or city dwellers. As the Seltos is not officially distributed in the UK, pricing varies depending on import source and condition.

How Is the Seltos S Positioned in the United States?

In the United States, the 2025 Kia Seltos S starts at $26,585 MSRP. It sits above the base LX trim and offers either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The powertrain consists of a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 147 horsepower (110 kW) and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with Kia’s Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT).

Standard features in the U.S. Seltos S include:

  • 17-inch alloy wheels
  • LED daytime running lights
  • Rearview monitor with dynamic guidelines
  • Lane keeping assist and lane following assist
  • Wireless phone charging (available with package upgrade)

Fuel economy is rated at 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway for the front-wheel drive version.

The model is backed by Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, in addition to a 5-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty.

What Does the 2025 Seltos S Deliver for Australian Buyers?

Australia remains one of the core markets for the Seltos S. Pricing begins at AUD 30,050 before on-road costs and reaches approximately AUD 32,340 drive-away. The Australian Seltos S is powered by the same 2.0-litre Smartstream petrol engine as its global counterparts, producing 110 kW and 180 Nm, mated to a CVT and front-wheel drive.

Fuel consumption is officially rated at 6.9 L/100 km, with carbon dioxide emissions at 157 g/km.

Key features include:

  • 8.0-inch infotainment screen
  • Wired Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay
  • Manual air conditioning
  • Halogen headlights
  • Durable plastic interior finishes

Luggage capacity is consistent across markets, at 468 litres with the rear seats up, and 1428 litres when folded down.

The Seltos S in Australia carries a five-star ANCAP safety rating, based on 2019 protocols. Standard safety systems include forward collision warning, blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert and intelligent speed assist.

"There are no major changes, but it remains a good value proposition for buyers wanting space, safety and a long warranty." - Scott Collie

How Does the Warranty and Servicing Compare Globally?

  • United Kingdom: Grey imports generally come with Kia’s European warranty of 7 years or 100,000 miles.
  • United States: Kia offers a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, plus 5-year/60,000-mile limited warranty.
  • Australia: The model is covered by a 7-year unlimited kilometre warranty, capped-price servicing and up to 8 years of roadside assistance.

Why the 2025 Kia Seltos S Remains Competitive

The 2025 Seltos S delivers a balance of essential features, safety technology and practical space in a compact format. While it lacks luxury finishes and turbocharged options, it effectively meets the needs of buyers looking for reliability and value. A strong warranty offer and efficient running costs further strengthen its position across markets including the UK, United States and Australia.

 

Source: Canberra Times, Car and Driver, CarExpert, Carsales, Kia, Wikipedia, YouTube

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