Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Kia Seltos
SUV · Gas · 21 versions · owner report
Ranked #7 of 26 compact SUVs on owner data, price and fuel economy
Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (210 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2027
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is sharply divided, creating a low-confidence overall picture.
6 problems reported (2 very frequent, 4 recurrent) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentTransmission reliability concerns (DCT/IMT)
Reports of failures, clunky/low-speed behavior, unsuitability for city traffic, and long repair times for parts.
- Very frequentEngine issues
Turbo failures, oil pump recalls (specific to a 2023 manufacturing batch), piston ring recalls (mentioned for 2.0L engines), carbon buildup causing lean codes at high mileage, and DPF failures in diesel models linked to "adulterated fuel" or city driving.
- RecurrentLow real-world fuel economy
City mileage reported as low as 8-12 km/L (~19-28 MPG), significantly below expectations for the segment.
+ 3 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentDealership and customer service problems
Poor service experiences, difficulty getting warranty claims approved, exorbitant out-of-warranty repair quotes, long wait times for parts, and lack of loaner vehicles.
- RecurrentSuspension and build quality issues
Premature wear leading to "kalampagin" (rattling noises), bent steering components from potholes, persistent alignment problems.
- RecurrentMinor electronic/component failures
Window motor issues, mood lighting failures, failing LED light strips, creaking interior plastics.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" version. Feedback is heavily segmented by powertrain preference. Several owners explicitly recommend avoiding the turbocharged petrol engine with DCT/IMT due to reliability concerns and driving characteristics unsuited for city traffic. The naturally aspirated (NA) petrol engine with IVT (CVT) or manual transmission is frequently mentioned as the more reliable and sensible choice, particularly for urban use. For diesel models, significant warnings are issued about DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) issues, especially with low highway usage.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Hyundai Creta, Honda Elevate, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Skoda Kushaq and Volkswagen Taigun.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is sharply divided, creating a low-confidence overall picture. A significant portion of owner feedback is positive, praising the vehicle for its spacious interior relative to its compact size, attractive exterior design, generous feature content (including ventilated seats, sunroof, air purifier, and dashcam in higher trims), and generally smooth and comfortable driving experience with the naturally aspirated (NA) petrol engines and IVT (CVT) or manual transmissions. However, an equally significant and recurrent stream of criticism centers on mechanical and electronic reliability, particularly concerning turbocharged petrol and diesel engines, DCT and IMT transmissions, and various component failures. Concerns about low real-world fuel economy in city driving (reported as low as 8-12 km/L or ~19-28 MPG), poor dealership service experiences, and supply chain delays for parts further erode confidence. The vehicle is often seen as a feature-rich and stylish choice but one that carries higher-than-expected ownership risk, especially with certain powertrains.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a feature-loaded and stylish alternative within the competitive compact SUV segment. Frequently compared directly with its platform sibling, the Hyundai Creta, with the Seltos often noted for more aggressive styling. It is generally viewed as offering more features and a more premium interior feel than Japanese rivals like the Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder and Honda Elevate, but at the cost of perceived reliability and real-world fuel efficiency. Against European contenders (Skoda Kushaq, VW Taigun), it is seen as more feature-focused and comfortable but potentially less engaging to drive and with greater concerns about long-term durability. A common theme is that it appeals to buyers prioritizing aesthetics and technology over proven, bulletproof reliability.
Recommended configurations
Recommendations are primarily cautions against specific configurations. The NA petrol engine with IVT or manual transmission is suggested for reliability. An extended warranty is strongly and recurrently recommended, especially for vehicles with DCT, IMT, or turbocharged engines. For diesel models, owners advise ensuring frequent highway driving to prevent DPF clogging. There is a suggestion to purchase insurance from external providers (e.g., AIG) rather than the dealership for better value. Avoiding the base HTE variant is implied due to missing features like rear wiper/defogger which cannot be easily added later.
General recommendations
Suitable for buyers who prioritize interior space, feature content, and contemporary design in a compact SUV and are willing to accept potential reliability trade-offs. Strongly recommended for buyers to purchase an extended warranty. Not recommended for those seeking maximum long-term reliability, low cost of ownership, or primarily urban drivers considering diesel or DCT/IMT turbo petrol variants. Essential to test drive the specific powertrain (especially DCT/IMT) in stop-and-go traffic to evaluate comfort. Research and choose a dealership with a good service reputation, as experiences vary wildly. Be prepared for potential part supply delays. For used purchases, a thorough mechanical inspection focusing on transmission health, engine recalls, and suspension components is critical.
Remarks
Owner sentiment and reported problem severity appear highly dependent on the specific powertrain and model year. The NA petrol engines garner significantly fewer major complaints than turbo petrol or diesel variants. Discussions heavily reference the Indian market model, which may differ from specifications in other regions. The data indicates a notable pattern where positive ownership experiences often cite trouble-free NA petrol vehicles, while negative experiences are disproportionately linked to turbo/DCT/IMT and diesel powertrains, as well as poor dealership support. The launch of a new generation (teased for 2025/2026) is noted, but no long-term ownership data is available for it. Analysis based on approximately 60 substantive owner discussions and comparisons.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2021. Years to avoid: 2021Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Kia Seltos years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 4 | 0 | vehicle speed control |
| 2025 | 13 | 0 | unknown or other |
| 2024 | 45 | 2 | electrical system |
| 2023 | 46 | 2 | engine |
| 2022 | 72 | 1 | engine |
| 2021 | 369 | 2 | engine |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices7 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2024 · power train:automatic transmission:fluid/lubricant:pumpcampaign 23V531000
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023 Soul, Sportage, and 2023-2024 Seltos vehicles. The electronic controller for the Idle Stop & Go oil pump assembly may contain damaged electrical components that can cause the pump to overheat.
2024 · air bagscampaign 23V830000
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023 Soul and 2024 Seltos vehicles. Due to a manufacturing error, the side curtain air bags may deploy unexpectedly.
2023 · power train:automatic transmission:fluid/lubricant:pumpcampaign 23V531000
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023 Soul, Sportage, and 2023-2024 Seltos vehicles. The electronic controller for the Idle Stop & Go oil pump assembly may contain damaged electrical components that can cause the pump to overheat.
2023 · engine and engine cooling:engine:hard parts internal/mechanicalcampaign 25V099000
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Seltos and Soul vehicles. The piston oil rings may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in engine damage.
2022 · engine and engine cooling:engine:hard parts internal/mechanicalcampaign 25V099000
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Seltos and Soul vehicles. The piston oil rings may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in engine damage.
2021 · enginecampaign 21V259000
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Soul, and 2021 Seltos vehicles equipped with 2.0L Nu MPI engines. The piston oil rings may not have been properly heat-treated, which may result in engine damage.
2021 · engine and engine cooling:engine:hard parts internal/mechanicalcampaign 25V099000
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Seltos and Soul vehicles. The piston oil rings may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in engine damage.
Specifications
2.0 MPI IVT
2.0L 4-cylinder · 147 hp · FWD · automatic
Built 2026