2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S vs 2026 Kia Seltos LX
40 more hp and 54 more lb-ft torque vs $4,060 less and 4 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 187 vs 147 hp, 25 vs 29 MPG.
The CX-5 2.5 S leads on 40 more hp, 54 more lb-ft torque. The Seltos LX leads on $4,060 less, 4 MPG better. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 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-5 2.5 S | 2026 Kia Seltos LX |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $29,050 | $24,990 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.0L I4 |
| Horsepower | 187 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 | 23 | 27 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 31 |
| Combined MPG | 25 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.3 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,500/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,679 lbs | 3,186 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.2" | 103.5" |
| Length | 180.1" | 172.6" |
| Width | 72.6" | 70.9" |
| Height | 66.1" | 63.6" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| 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-5 2.5 S and 2026 Kia Seltos LX?
The 2026 Kia Seltos LX starts at $24,990, $4,060 less than the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S at $29,050. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $72/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S is the stronger pick when the extra 40 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 $4,060 in your pocket and the 2026 Kia Seltos LX covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $232/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S or 2026 Kia Seltos LX?
The 2026 Kia Seltos LX rates 29 combined MPG, 4 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S or 2026 Kia Seltos LX?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S produces 187 hp, 40 more than the 2026 Kia Seltos LX at 147 hp. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 132 lb-ft. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Kia Seltos LX uses a 2.0L I4.
Is the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S bigger than the 2026 Kia Seltos LX?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S is 7.5″ longer at 180.1″ vs 172.6″. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S has a 2.7″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Mazda CX-5 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-5 trims, Kia trims, Kia Seltos trims
- 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Kia Seltos LX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The CX-5–Seltos Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the CX-5 and Seltos compare. The $-4,060 gap adds up to $72/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Kia Seltos LX uses a 2.0L I4. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S has 40 more hp (187 vs 147), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 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.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Kia Seltos LX saves roughly $232/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,160.
Living With the CX-5 vs the Seltos
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S weighs 493 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S when the extra 40 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 Kia Seltos LX when you want to keep $4,060 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.