2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S vs 2026 Kia Seltos LX
On paper, the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S wins on 44 more hp, 54 more lb-ft torque. The 2026 Kia Seltos LX has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 191 vs 147 hp, 29 vs 29 MPG.
The CX-30 2.5 S leads on 44 more hp, 54 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S | 2026 Kia Seltos LX |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $25,195 | $24,990 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.0L I4 |
| Horsepower | 191 hp | 147 hp |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft | 132 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 27 |
| Highway MPG | 33 | 31 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 12.7 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,500/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,419 lbs | 3,186 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 104.4" | 103.5" |
| Length | 173.0" | 172.6" |
| Width | 70.7" | 70.9" |
| Height | 61.7" | 63.6" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S and 2026 Kia Seltos LX?
The 2026 Kia Seltos LX starts at $24,990, $205 less than the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S at $25,195. That gap is small enough that monthly payments are nearly identical. Focus on which vehicle fits your life, not the sticker.
Who should choose the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S is the stronger pick when the extra 44 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Who should choose the 2026 Kia Seltos LX?
The 2026 Kia Seltos LX is the stronger pick when you want to keep $205 in your pocket and the 2026 Kia Seltos LX covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S or 2026 Kia Seltos LX?
Both achieve 29 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S or 2026 Kia Seltos LX?
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S produces 191 hp, 44 more than the 2026 Kia Seltos LX at 147 hp. The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 132 lb-ft. The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Kia Seltos LX uses a 2.0L I4.
Is the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S bigger than the 2026 Kia Seltos LX?
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S is 0.4″ longer at 173.0″ vs 172.6″. The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S has a 0.9″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Mazda CX-30 comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Kia Seltos offers 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Mazda trims, Mazda CX-30 trims, Kia trims, Kia Seltos trims
- 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Kia Seltos LX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the CX-30 and Seltos Stack Up
Two compact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S ($25,195) and 2026 Kia Seltos LX ($24,990) solve similar problems in different ways. The $-205 price gap works out to less than $10/month on a typical loan, so the cost difference is negligible. Pick on fit, not on price.
Powertrain: CX-30 vs Seltos
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Kia Seltos LX uses a 2.0L I4. The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S has 44 more hp (191 vs 147), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S adds 54 more lb-ft of torque (186 vs 132), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S when the extra 44 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 Kia Seltos LX when you want to keep $205 in your pocket and the 2026 Kia Seltos LX covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Mazda or Kia or any dealership.