27 MPG combined. That’s the number that defines the fuel economy of the 2021 Kia Seltos AWD with the 1.6L four-cylinder engine. It’s a figure that won’t set any records but is perfectly acceptable, even expected, for a small SUV designed for urban agility and occasional adventures beyond the pavement. Buyers choose the Seltos for its styling, practicality, and available all-wheel drive, so they tend to view fuel economy as a secondary, though still important, consideration.

City and highway performance

The EPA’s breakdown reveals a slightly lower 25 MPG in the city and a more respectable 30 MPG on the highway. This split suggests that the Seltos 1.6T AWD performs adequately in stop-and-go traffic, although its small displacement engine and seven-speed dual-clutch transmission might exhibit some hesitation. On the open road, however, it settles into a more efficient rhythm, benefiting from the transmission’s ability to find the optimal gear for cruising. All-wheel drive systems inherently reduce fuel efficiency, so opting for a front-wheel drive Seltos will yield significantly better MPG, depending on the engine chosen.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Kia Seltos 1.6T AWD at $1,600. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. While individual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits and local fuel prices, this provides a standardized benchmark for comparing the Seltos to other vehicles in its class. If you primarily drive in the city or have a heavier foot, expect this number to climb. Conversely, if you log mostly highway miles at consistent speeds, you might find yourself spending less than the estimated $1,600.

A quick way to see how the Seltos compares to its competitors is by looking at the EPA’s annual fuel cost estimates of other vehicles.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy inevitably varies based on driving style, terrain, and weather conditions. Expect to see figures close to the EPA estimates under normal driving, but aggressive acceleration or frequent off-road excursions will significantly impact fuel consumption. Cold weather can also reduce fuel economy, as the engine requires more fuel to reach optimal operating temperature and rolling resistance from snow tires further impacts efficiency. Owners reporting their MPG on various websites suggest that the real-world MPG generally aligns with the EPA’s numbers, though experiences can differ.

How it compares

The Seltos occupies a competitive segment and understanding how its fuel economy compares against rivals is critical. The Hyundai Kona AWD, sharing a platform with the Seltos offers comparable MPG around 27 city/32 highway; however, the Kona’s sporty handling prioritizes dynamics over fuel efficiency. The Mazda CX-30 AWD, known for its stylish design and engaging driving experience, achieves around 25 city/32 highway, offering a more premium feel for slightly less fuel economy. The Subaru Crosstrek, a popular choice for its standard all-wheel drive and off-road capability, comes in around 27 city/34 highway, making it a slightly more efficient choice.

Buyers often cross-shop the Seltos with larger vehicles too, like the Toyota RAV4. The RAV4 AWD achieves around 27 city/34 highway. This comparison matters because Seltos buyers often downsize from larger SUVs. For these shoppers, even if the RAV4 has slightly better numbers, the improved economy compared to their previous larger vehicle may be enough.

Looking at all Kia fuel economy data, you’ll see that the Seltos sits nicely in the middle of the range, offering a solid balance between utility and fuel efficiency. Be sure to research SELTOS MPG across all years before making your choice on a particular year of the vehicle.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The Seltos’s small engine and dual-clutch transmission are sensitive to throttle inputs, so maintaining a smooth and steady driving style reduces unnecessary fuel consumption. Gentle acceleration and anticipating traffic conditions will make a noticeable difference.

Ensure proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure, which can be found on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Minimize the use of accessories like air conditioning and heated seats. These features place an extra load on the engine, increasing fuel consumption. When possible, use the ventilation system or open windows instead of air conditioning, and limit the use of heated seats to when they are strictly needed.

Consider using Eco mode. The Seltos often comes equipped with a driving mode selector, which includes an Eco mode. This mode optimizes the engine and transmission settings for maximum fuel efficiency by reducing throttle response and shifting at lower RPMs. While it may slightly reduce performance, the fuel savings can be significant over the long term.

Keep up with regular maintenance, especially oil changes. Fresh oil reduces friction within the engine, improving efficiency. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and use the specified oil type to ensure optimal performance and fuel economy. Neglecting maintenance can lead to increased fuel consumption and potential engine damage.