The 2024 Kia Seltos AWD 2.0L 4-cylinder should get around 29 MPG combined, a figure that balances all-weather capability with day-to-day practicality. This isn’t a hybrid chasing maximum efficiency, nor is it a rugged off-roader guzzling fuel. Instead, it’s a compact SUV designed for buyers who need extra traction in snow or on unpaved roads, but who also prioritize affordability and ease of use. The fuel economy is a compromise they are willing to accept.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 27 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway for this Seltos configuration. The city figure shows the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the engine spends more time idling and accelerating; the naturally aspirated 2.0L engine copes reasonably well. The highway number showcases the efficiency of Kia’s Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), which they market as an AV-S8. This transmission helps keep the engine at its most efficient during sustained cruising. The small difference between city and highway figures makes this Seltos a good commuter vehicle.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Kia Seltos AWD 2.0L 4-cyl at $1,500. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a benchmark for comparing running costs with other vehicles, but individual spending will depend on your driving habits and where you live. Drivers who log mostly highway miles or live in areas with cheaper fuel might spend less, while those with heavy city commutes and higher fuel costs could expect to exceed the $1,500 estimate. Browse all Kia fuel economy data for further comparison.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized testing process, real-world fuel economy varies. Aggressive acceleration, frequent use of the air conditioning, carrying heavy loads, and driving in hilly terrain will all hurt your MPG. Driving at consistent speeds on flat roads and smooth acceleration and braking will help you get numbers closer to, or slightly exceeding, the EPA estimates. Don’t take the 29 MPG combined rating as a guarantee, but as a target you should be able to approach with mindful driving.

How it compares

The 2024 Kia Seltos AWD 2.0L strikes a competitive balance compared to its rivals. The Honda HR-V AWD achieves a similar 28 MPG combined, offering slightly less cargo space. The Mazda CX-30 with its standard 2.5L engine offers better driving but lower fuel efficiency, delivering around 25 MPG combined in its AWD configuration. A comparable Nissan Kicks, which is front-wheel drive only, gets 31 MPG combined, but lacks the all-weather capability of the Seltos AWD. The Seltos works for buyers who consider AWD a necessity but aren’t willing to sacrifice too much when it comes to fuel economy. Check the SELTOS MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The 2.0L engine responds best to smooth, gradual throttle inputs. Flooring the accelerator will not improve performance, but it will decrease your MPG. Instead, anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady pace. Use cruise control on the highway to prevent speed variations that can waste fuel.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, every few weeks, and inflate them to the recommended pressure on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. A simple tire pressure gauge is an effective tool for maintaining fuel efficiency.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for long periods, like while waiting in a parking lot or drive-thru, wastes fuel. If you anticipate being stationary for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines restart quickly, and the fuel saved by turning off the engine will outweigh the minimal wear on the starter.

Reduce weight. Carrying extra weight in your vehicle also decreases fuel economy. Remove non-essential items from the cargo area and passenger compartment. Every extra pound adds to the engine’s workload, causing it to consume more fuel. Clearing out unnecessary items is a simple way to improve your MPG without changing your driving.