31 MPG combined is a good achievement for the 2022 Kia Seltos FWD with its 2.0L engine, placing it among the more efficient subcompact SUVs. This is not a hybrid. It’s a practical, affordable vehicle aimed at young urban professionals, small families, and empty nesters who need a versatile vehicle without spending too much. They appreciate the Seltos’ spacious interior, funky styling, and its tech, and are willing to accept good, rather than exceptional, fuel economy.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Seltos 2.0L at 29 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s reasonable responsiveness at lower speeds, helped by the smooth-shifting AV-S8 automatic transmission. Highway performance is helped by the vehicle’s relatively low weight and the transmission’s ability to select optimal gear ratios for efficient cruising. While not a powerhouse, the 2.0L engine provides adequate power for merging and passing, if you don’t expect sports car performance. The AV-S8 transmission is programmed for efficiency, upshifting early and often to keep the engine revs down.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Kia Seltos FWD 2.0L is $1,400. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices, providing a standardized benchmark for comparison. Individual fuel costs will vary based on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the percentage of city versus highway driving. The $1,400 figure provides a useful reference for prospective buyers evaluating the overall cost of ownership.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a standardized baseline, but real-world fuel economy differs. Drivers who accelerate quickly or drive in stop-and-go traffic can expect to see figures closer to the city rating, perhaps dipping slightly below 29 MPG. Conversely, drivers who accelerate smoothly and spend most of their time on the open road may achieve figures exceeding the 35 MPG highway rating. Expect fuel economy to fluctuate within a few MPG of the EPA combined figure, but realistically anticipate averaging around that 31 MPG mark.

How it compares

The Seltos 2.0L competes in a crowded segment where fuel economy is an important consideration. The Nissan Kicks, for example, gets a combined rating of 33 MPG, making it slightly more efficient, though less characterful in terms of driving dynamics. The Hyundai Kona with its base engine achieves a similar combined rating of 30 MPG, while offering more extroverted styling. The base model Mazda CX-30 gets around 28 MPG combined, sacrificing some efficiency for a more premium feel and engaging driving experience. These differences in MPG figures might seem small at first glance, but they can add up to significant savings over the lifespan of the vehicle and they show different value statements for slightly different buyer profiles. You can find all Kia fuel economy data on our site. Shoppers considering the Seltos MPG should also cross shop SELTOS MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to maximizing fuel economy in the Seltos. Avoid abrupt starts and stops, allowing the vehicle to gradually build speed. The 2.0L engine isn’t particularly strong, so avoid pressing the accelerator to the floor unless necessary. A smooth, steady driving style will yield the best results.

Proper tire inflation is important for fuel efficiency. Check your tires regularly and maintain the recommended pressure as indicated on the doorjamb sticker. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Ensuring proper inflation will improve fuel economy and prolong tire life.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Carrying excessive cargo adds to the vehicle’s weight, impacting fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need in the car. A lighter vehicle requires less energy to accelerate and maintain speed.

Plan your trips and avoid peak traffic times when possible. Stop-and-go traffic reduces fuel economy. By planning your routes and avoiding congested areas, you can minimize idling and maintain a more consistent speed, leading to better fuel efficiency. Consider using navigation apps to find the most efficient routes.