2025 Subaru Crosstrek Base vs 2026 Kia Seltos LX
On paper, the 2026 Kia Seltos LX wins on $1,570 less. The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Base has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 152 vs 147 hp, 29 vs 29 MPG.
The Seltos LX leads on $1,570 less. 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 Subaru Crosstrek Base | 2026 Kia Seltos LX |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $26,560 | $24,990 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L flat 4 | 2.0L I4 |
| Horsepower | 152 hp | 147 hp |
| Torque | 145 lb-ft | 132 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 27 | 27 |
| Highway MPG | 34 | 31 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.6 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,500/yr | $1,500/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,277 lbs | 3,186 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 103.5" |
| Length | 176.4" | 172.6" |
| Width | 70.9" | 70.9" |
| Height | 62.8" | 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 Subaru Crosstrek Base and 2026 Kia Seltos LX?
The 2026 Kia Seltos LX starts at $24,990, $1,570 less than the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Base at $26,560. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $28/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Base?
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Base is the stronger pick when the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Base is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute.
Who should choose the 2026 Kia Seltos LX?
The 2026 Kia Seltos LX is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,570 in your pocket and the 2026 Kia Seltos LX covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Base 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 Subaru Crosstrek Base or 2026 Kia Seltos LX?
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Base produces 152 hp, 5 more than the 2026 Kia Seltos LX at 147 hp. The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Base also leads in torque at 145 lb-ft vs 132 lb-ft. The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Base runs a 2.0L flat 4; the 2026 Kia Seltos LX uses a 2.0L I4.
Is the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Base bigger than the 2026 Kia Seltos LX?
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Base is 3.8″ longer at 176.4″ vs 172.6″. The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Base has a 1.6″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Subaru Crosstrek 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: Subaru trims, Subaru Crosstrek trims, Kia trims, Kia Seltos trims
- 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Base Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Kia Seltos LX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The Crosstrek–Seltos Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Crosstrek and Seltos compare. The $-1,570 gap is about $28/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Base runs a 2.0L flat 4; the 2026 Kia Seltos LX uses a 2.0L I4. The 5 hp difference (152 vs 147) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Base when the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Base is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute. Choose the 2026 Kia Seltos LX when you want to keep $1,570 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 Subaru or Kia or any dealership.