With 29 MPG combined, the 2023 Kia Seltos AWD 2.0L is a fuel-conscious choice in the subcompact SUV class, a practical choice for buyers who want all-weather capability and extra cargo space over pure efficiency. It won’t win hypermiling contests, but for those who need all-wheel drive without spending too much on gas, this Seltos configuration offers a good balance.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates fuel economy at 27 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway for the 2023 Kia Seltos AWD with the 2.0L engine. The slightly lower city MPG reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the engine idles and accelerates more. The highway figure shows the engine’s ability to maintain efficiency at a steady cruising speed. The automatic transmission (AV-S8) is programmed to keep the engine in its most efficient range, which helps both city and highway MPG. Don’t expect to hit 31 MPG consistently if you drive aggressively; that number is best achieved under ideal conditions.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Kia Seltos AWD 2.0L at $1,500. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a useful way to compare the Seltos’s fuel consumption to other vehicles, but your actual expenses will vary depending on your driving habits and local fuel prices. If you drive more than 15,000 miles annually, or if gas prices in your area are higher than average, your annual fuel cost will increase.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standard benchmark, real-world fuel economy often differs. Driving style, traffic, terrain, and even tire pressure can change your actual MPG. Seltos owners who frequently drive in hilly areas or heavy traffic may find their real-world MPG closer to the lower end of the EPA range, or even slightly below. However, those who primarily drive on flat highways in optimal conditions could exceed the EPA estimates. The Seltos’ modest engine size means you’ll likely notice a larger MPG drop when carrying heavy loads or passengers. Watch your driving habits and adjust to maximize fuel efficiency.

How it compares

The 2023 Kia Seltos AWD 2.0L has strong competition in the subcompact SUV segment. For instance, the Mazda CX-30 with its standard 2.5L engine and AWD achieves 25 MPG combined whereas the slightly larger Honda HR-V with AWD gets 28 MPG combined. The Subaru Crosstrek, known for its standard AWD, also gets 29 MPG combined. For more details, you can compare the SELTOS MPG across all years. The Nissan Kicks, a front-wheel-drive-only option, gets 31 MPG combined. This comparison is important to Seltos buyers because they’re typically weighing the benefits of AWD against the slightly lower fuel economy. The Seltos hits a good compromise for many, offering AWD without sacrificing too much efficiency. For those willing to forgo AWD, exploring all Kia fuel economy data might uncover even more fuel-efficient options within the same brand.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The 2.0L engine in the Seltos responds well to smooth inputs. Minimizing sudden bursts of speed or hard braking will reduce fuel consumption, especially in city driving. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed when possible.

Maintain proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and consumes more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level, which can be found on the driver’s side doorjamb or in the owner’s manual. A simple tire pressure gauge can pay for itself quickly in fuel savings.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying excess cargo in your Seltos can hurt fuel economy. Remove items that you don’t regularly need, such as sports equipment or tools. Even small weight reductions can lead to fuel savings over time.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel efficiency on long highway drives. However, be mindful of using cruise control in hilly areas, as the transmission may downshift frequently to maintain speed, potentially negating the fuel-saving benefits.

Minimize idling. Avoid idling the engine for extended periods, especially in cold weather. Modern engines warm up quickly, and prolonged idling wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine and restart it when you’re ready to go.