The 2021 Kia Seltos AWD 2.0L gets 29 MPG combined, which is fine for a small SUV that focuses on style, space, and all-weather driving instead of extreme gas savings. Owners choose the Seltos for its unique design, surprisingly spacious interior, and the confidence of all-wheel drive, understanding that fuel economy is slightly less of a priority. It’s not the choice for hypermilers, it’s a practical choice for those who value versatility and individuality.

City and highway performance

The EPA ratings for the Seltos AWD with the 2.0L engine are 27 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go driving, where the all-wheel drive system and the automatic transmission’s programming lead to a slight increase in fuel use. The highway rating is more promising, showing the Seltos’ ability to maintain good efficiency when cruising. Aggressive acceleration or consistently high speeds will reduce real-world highway MPG.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Kia Seltos AWD 2.0L is $1,500. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price. Your actual fuel expenses may vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel you use, but the $1,500 figure is a useful benchmark for comparing the Seltos to other vehicles. For Kia fuel economy data, browse our Kia fuel economy data.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized testing method, but your mileage may vary. Real-world MPG can change based on driving style, terrain, and cargo. Expect lower numbers if you often haul heavy loads or drive fast. However, gentle acceleration and sticking to speed limits on the highway can produce results that match or exceed the EPA’s 31 MPG estimate. Regular maintenance, like tire inflation and oil changes, also help to keep fuel efficiency optimal.

How it compares

The 2021 Kia Seltos AWD 2.0L is in the middle of the subcompact SUV group. The Nissan Kicks, which is usually FWD, gets an impressive 31 MPG combined. However, the Kicks doesn’t have the Seltos’ available all-wheel drive and more powerful engine choices. The AWD Mazda CX-3 gets around 29 MPG combined, and the Subaru Crosstrek, which has standard AWD, also gets around 29 MPG combined. These numbers are important for buyers who want to balance all-weather capability with fuel costs. If you want to learn more, review SELTOS MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is important. The Seltos’ 2.0L engine doesn’t require you to press the gas hard to keep up speed in most situations. Accelerate smoothly from stops and don’t make sudden bursts of power to use less gas. Watch the road and expect traffic to avoid braking and accelerating unnecessarily.

Tire pressure greatly affects fuel economy. Check your tires often and inflate them to the recommended pressure on the driver’s side doorjamb. Low tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel.

Reduce wind resistance. Take off roof racks or cargo carriers when you don’t need them. These items can greatly increase wind resistance, especially at highway speeds. Use a cargo carrier that cuts through the air better if you often carry large items on the roof.

Use cruise control carefully. Cruise control can keep a steady speed and improve fuel economy on flat highways. Don’t use it on hills, because the transmission may downshift often to keep the speed constant, which cancels out fuel savings.

Regular maintenance keeps your Seltos running well. Follow the maintenance schedule in the owner’s manual, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug checks. Well-maintained parts help the engine perform its best and save fuel.