The 2025 Kia Seltos lineup offers distinct personalities across its trim range, each designed to align with different priorities and preferences. From efficient daily drivers to tech-packed premium options, there's a Seltos configuration that fits your specific needs. Understanding the key differences between trims helps you identify which version of this versatile compact SUV will serve you best.
Your driving habits, feature preferences, and budget all influence which Seltos trim makes the most sense for your lifestyle. Let's examine what each trim brings to the table to help you find your perfect match.
LX: Practical Efficiency
The Seltos LX establishes a solid foundation with essential features at an accessible price point. Available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, the LX pairs a responsive 2.0L engine (147 hp) with an Intelligent Variable Transmission for smooth, efficient performance.
Standard features include an 8-inch display audio system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a 4.2-inch TFT LCD instrument cluster, and heated front seats for those chilly mornings. The LX doesn't skimp on safety either, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Lane Follow Assist as standard equipment.
The LX AWD adds confidence-inspiring all-wheel drive with locking differential capability, making it an excellent choice for drivers who prioritize all-weather traction at a value-focused price point. With its balanced approach to features and affordability, the LX trims appeal to practical drivers who want essential modern amenities without unnecessary frills.
EX: Elevated Comfort
Stepping up to the EX trim (available in both FWD and AWD) brings noticeable upgrades to both style and substance. LED lighting elements enhance the exterior appearance while providing improved visibility. Inside, an automatic climate control system maintains your ideal cabin temperature without constant adjustment.
The EX introduces several convenience features that make daily driving more pleasant: a smart key with push-button start, remote car starter for climate pre-conditioning, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear shift knob that add a touch of refinement to every drive.
The EX AWD adds a power sunroof that brings natural light into the cabin, creating a more open, airy feel. With its blend of comfort, convenience, and style upgrades, the EX trims appeal to drivers who value a more refined daily driving experience.
EX Premium: Technology Focus
The EX Premium builds on the EX AWD foundation with a comprehensive technology package that transforms how you interact with your vehicle. The dual 10.25-inch screens (multimedia interface with integrated navigation and TFT LCD supervision instrument cluster) create a cockpit-like experience that puts information exactly where you need it.
Additional technology upgrades include wireless phone charging, smart cruise control, and ambient mood lighting that enhances the cabin atmosphere. The premium audio system delivers improved sound quality for your entertainment.
Comfort features expand with heated rear seats, air-cooled front seats, and power adjustable front seats with memory function. With its emphasis on technology and comfort, the EX Premium appeals to tech-savvy drivers who value advanced features that enhance both convenience and comfort.
SX: Performance Enhancement
The SX trim shifts the Seltos personality toward performance with its turbocharged 1.6L engine that produces 195 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, this powertrain delivers noticeably more responsive acceleration and passing power.
The SX also introduces the Heads-Up Display system that projects key driving information on a secondary screen above the steering wheel, allowing you to monitor vital data without taking your eyes off the road. The Bose premium audio system provides exceptional sound clarity for music enthusiasts.
Additional refinements include 18-inch alloy wheels and rain-sensing wipers that automatically adjust to precipitation intensity. With its focus on performance and premium features, the SX appeals to driving enthusiasts who still need the practicality of a compact SUV.
X-Line: Distinctive Style
Building on the SX trim's performance orientation, the X-Line adds distinctive styling elements that set it apart visually. The glossy black wheels, gun-metal colored grille and skid plates, and black roof rails create a more rugged, adventurous appearance.
Lower side door black garnishes and X-Line badging complete the unique look. This trim maintains all the performance and technology features of the SX while adding visual distinction for those who want to stand out from the crowd.
With its combination of turbocharged performance and unique styling elements, the X-Line appeals to drivers who value individuality and want their vehicle to make a statement.
Powertrain Considerations
Two distinct powertrains divide the Seltos lineup, each with specific strengths:
The 2.0L 4-cylinder engine (LX, EX, EX Premium) delivers 147 horsepower with excellent fuel efficiency: 8.3/6.8 L/100km (city/highway) for FWD models and 8.8/7.5 L/100km for AWD versions. This powertrain prioritizes smooth, efficient daily driving.
The 1.6L turbocharged engine (SX, X-Line) provides 195 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque for more spirited performance. While fuel economy remains respectable at 9.7/8.6 L/100km (city/highway), this powertrain focuses on responsive acceleration and passing power.
Your typical driving routes and performance expectations will help determine which powertrain better aligns with your needs.
All-Wheel Drive Benefits
All trims except the base LX FWD and EX FWD include Kia's capable all-wheel drive system with locking differential. This system continuously monitors traction conditions and automatically distributes power between wheels as needed.
The locking differential function provides additional capability in challenging conditions, making the AWD-equipped Seltos trims excellent choices for drivers who regularly face winter weather or frequently travel on unpaved roads.
Finding Your Perfect Match
The ideal Seltos trim depends entirely on your priorities:
- Value-focused daily driving: LX FWD or LX AWD
- Balance of features and affordability: EX FWD or EX AWD
- Technology and comfort emphasis: EX Premium
- Performance priority: SX
- Distinctive style with performance: X-Line
Your driving habits, feature preferences, and budget all influence which trim configuration will serve you best over the long term.
Visit Trento Kia for a personal Seltos trim comparison and test drive experience. We will assist you in identifying which of these thoughtfully designed trim levels aligns perfectly with your driving style and priorities. The 2025 Seltos range offers remarkable versatility across its lineup – you'll find the version that feels like it was designed specifically for you.
To learn more about the 2025 Kia Seltos, visit Kia.ca