When the Kia Seltos first launched, it disrupted the mid-size SUV segment with its striking design, premium features, and wide array of powertrain choices. For 2025, Kia has not just refreshed a successful formula—it has made it complete. The Seltos facelift retains its aggressive, “Badass” styling while addressing the two key areas where it previously lagged its rivals: safety and cutting-edge technology.
With a comprehensively improved structure, the introduction of a Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS), a segment-first dual-zone climate control, and a feature-packed interior, the 2025 Kia Seltos is now, without a doubt, a fierce contender for the segment crown. This in-depth review explores every aspect of the new Seltos, from its price list and engine performance to its real-world driving dynamics and crash safety rating.
Price and Variants: A Segment for Every Buyer
The 2025 Seltos continues with a tiered trim structure: the Tech Line (HTE, HTK, HTK+, HTX, HTX(O)), the GT Line (GTX+), and the top-spec X-Line. To offer better value and accessibility, Kia introduced new ‘(O)’ variants (HTE(O), HTK(O), HTK+(O)) which bring desirable features like the Panoramic Sunroof down to more affordable price points. This thoughtful expansion means buyers no longer have to jump to the top two trims for key luxury features.
The sheer breadth of the variant lineup—over 20 combinations of trim, engine, and transmission—is a major strength of the Seltos.
| Variant Range (Ex-showroom, approximate) | Price Range (₹ Lakh) | Key Highlights |
| HTE (O) to HTX (Tech Line) | 10.79 – 18.35 | Value-focused, 6 Airbags standard, basic connectivity, key comfort features (AC, rear vents). |
| HTX (O) to GTX+ (Premium) | 18.00 – 19.99 | Panoramic Sunroof, Dual 10.25″ screens, Ventilated Seats, Power Driver Seat, Bose Audio, ADAS. |
| X-Line (Flagship) | 19.81 – 20.50 | Exclusive Matte finish, 18-inch wheels, Electronic Parking Brake, Top-tier ADAS and features. |
The price band ensures the Seltos competes directly with rivals across all price points, offering compelling value in the middle to upper-middle variants where the majority of purchases are made.
The Powertrain Playground: Three Engines, Seven Gearboxes
The 2025 Kia Seltos remains the only SUV in its class to offer three distinct engine options, each catering to a different driving style and requirement, paired with a segment-leading seven different transmission combinations.
1. The Performance King: 1.5L Turbo GDi Petrol
- Specs: 1,482 cc, 4-Cylinder, 160 PS of power, 253 Nm of torque.
- Transmissions: 6-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT) and 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT).
This engine is the star of the show. With 160 PS, the Seltos is one of the most powerful SUVs in its segment. The turbocharger spools up quickly, delivering a strong mid-range surge perfect for highway overtakes. The 7-speed DCT is lightning-fast and responsive, making it the powertrain of choice for the driving enthusiast.
2. The Reliable Workhorse: 1.5L NA Smartstream Petrol
- Specs: 1,497 cc, 4-Cylinder, 115 PS of power, 144 Nm of torque.
- Transmissions: 6-speed Manual Transmission (MT) and Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT – Kia’s version of a CVT).
This engine is tuned for smooth, linear power delivery. It is a fantastic option for city dwellers who prioritize ease of driving and efficiency over outright performance. The IVT is incredibly refined, eliminating the typical rubber-band effect associated with CVTs, making for a seamless and relaxed commute.
3. The Efficient Mile-Muncher: 1.5L CRDi VGT Diesel
- Specs: 1,493 cc, 4-Cylinder Turbo, 116 PS of power, 250 Nm of torque.
- Transmissions: 6-speed Manual Transmission (MT) and 6-speed Torque Converter Automatic (TC AT).
In a market where diesel options are shrinking, the Seltos diesel remains a powerhouse. The high torque output of 250 Nm available from low RPMs makes it feel effortless to drive, especially when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. The 6-speed TC AT is robust, reliable, and perfectly suited for long-distance cruising, offering an unmatched combination of driveability and fuel efficiency.
Mileage Test: Efficiency in the Real World
While ARAI figures provide a benchmark, real-world conditions often differ significantly. The Seltos performs admirably, especially its diesel counterpart.
| Engine & Transmission | ARAI Mileage (kmpl) | Real-World City (kmpl) | Real-World Highway (kmpl) |
| 1.5L Diesel MT | ~20.7 | 14-16 | 19-21 (Best in Class) |
| 1.5L Diesel AT | ~19.1 | 13-15 | 17-19 |
| 1.5L Turbo Petrol DCT | ~17.9 | 10-12 | 14-16 |
| 1.5L NA Petrol IVT | ~17.7 | 11-13 | 15-17 |
Real Driving Insight: The Diesel MT variant consistently delivers the best highway figures, easily crossing the 20 kmpl mark under light-footed cruising. The Turbo Petrol, while powerful, will demand a slight compromise on city mileage, rewarding the driver instead with blistering acceleration.
Interior Features: The Tech-Loaded Command Centre
Stepping inside the 2025 Seltos is a masterclass in modern automotive design. The cabin is layered, premium, and dominated by a cohesive, dual-screen setup that screams sophistication.
Signature Features and Technology:
- Dual 10.25-inch Panoramic Display: A seamless, integrated housing for the all-digital instrument cluster and the touchscreen infotainment system. The graphics are crisp, and the interface is incredibly slick and intuitive.
- Panoramic Sunroof: A massive addition that instantly transforms the cabin feel, making it airy and bright. It is available from the mid-spec HTK(O) variant onwards.
- Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control: A segment-first feature that allows the driver and front passenger to set two different temperatures, significantly boosting comfort on long drives.
- Ventilated Front Seats: A necessity for hot climates, the three-stage cooling function makes a huge difference in comfort.
- 8-Speaker Bose Premium Sound System: Tuned specifically for the Seltos cabin, this system offers a rich, immersive audio experience that few rivals can match.
- Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) with Auto Hold: Available on top-end automatic variants, this feature is a game-changer for stop-and-go city traffic, adding convenience and a premium feel.
- Kia Connect and 360-Degree Camera: The connected car technology suite offers remote engine start/stop, live vehicle tracking, and over-the-air (OTA) updates. The high-resolution 360-degree camera system makes parking in tight spots effortless.
Ergonomics and Comfort: The new interiors use higher quality materials, especially on the dashboard and door pads. The front seats are supportive and the driver gets power adjustments. While the rear seat is spacious for two, a third passenger will find it manageable but slightly snug—a common trait in this segment. Overall, the Seltos cabin is a genuinely premium space that feels a segment above its price tag.
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Safety Rating & ADAS: The New Gold Standard
This is arguably the most significant upgrade for the 2025 Seltos. Kia has fundamentally improved the safety quotient of its flagship SUV.
5-Star Safety Structure
The facelifted Seltos is built on a significantly revised and stronger body shell. It is widely expected and reported to secure a 5-Star safety rating in the new Global NCAP or Bharat NCAP protocols (unlike the older model’s 3-star rating).
Standard and Active Safety:
- 6 Airbags: Standard across all variants, reinforcing Kia’s commitment to passenger safety from the base model upwards.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) & Vehicle Stability Management (VSM): Standard, essential features that prevent skidding and loss of control.
- All-Wheel Disc Brakes: Standard across all variants, providing superior braking performance.
- Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC) & Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): Standard.
Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System)
Available on the GTX+ and X-Line trims, the Level 2 ADAS suite is a highlight, incorporating 17 functions powered by a front camera and radar sensors.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): The single best feature for highway driving, automatically adjusting the car’s speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA): Provides warnings and can automatically apply the brakes to prevent or mitigate a frontal crash.
- Lane Keep Assist (LKA) & Lane Departure Warning (LDW): Actively assists the driver in keeping the vehicle within its lane markers.
- Blind Spot Collision Warning (BCW): Essential for safe lane changes, alerting the driver to vehicles in the blind spot.
ADAS Experience: The Seltos ADAS is well-calibrated for Indian driving conditions. While the beeps can be intrusive in chaotic city traffic (and can be turned off), the Adaptive Cruise Control on a clear highway is a genuine boon for reducing driver fatigue.
Real Driving Review: Handling the Urban and the Open Road
The Seltos has always been known for its engaging driving dynamics, and the 2025 model further refines this trait.
Driving Feel and Handling
Kia has tweaked the suspension setup for the facelift. It is tuned to be slightly firmer compared to rivals, which translates directly into superior high-speed stability. The Seltos feels absolutely planted on the highway, with minimal body roll around corners, instilling immense confidence in the driver.
- City Drive: The steering is light and effortless at low speeds, making city manoeuvring and parking easy. The Turbo DCT and Diesel AT variants are buttery smooth in bumper-to-bumper traffic.
- Highway Drive: The steering weighs up beautifully as speed increases. Cruising at triple-digit speeds is a relaxed affair, with the car tracking straight and true. The excellent sound insulation means road and wind noise are well-contained, contributing to a premium mile-munching experience.
Performance Breakdown
- 1.5L Turbo Petrol: This is the most fun engine. The 7-speed DCT’s responsiveness means quick downshifts are always available, providing an exhilarating push when needed. 0-100 kmph timing is among the best in the segment.
- 1.5L Diesel AT: Effortless and torquey. It’s not about outright speed, but about effortless performance. The 6-speed TC AT is incredibly smooth, providing linear acceleration that makes highway driving relaxed and highly efficient.
Verdict: Why the 2025 Seltos is the Segment King
The Kia Seltos was already a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment, but the 2025 model has solidified its position as the ultimate all-rounder.
By integrating a segment-leading tech package (dual screens, panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats), offering a class-leading array of engine and transmission options (especially the powerful Turbo Petrol and the super-efficient Diesel), and significantly enhancing safety with a stronger structure and Level 2 ADAS, the Seltos is now a cohesive, complete, and compelling package.
It successfully caters to the performance enthusiast (Turbo DCT), the long-distance efficiency seeker (Diesel AT), and the tech-savvy urban commuter, all while wrapping it in a stunning design and backed by the promise of a top-tier safety rating. The 2025 Kia Seltos doesn’t just meet expectations—it raises the bar for the entire segment.
