2026 Nissan Kicks S vs 2026 Kia Seltos LX
On paper, the 2026 Nissan Kicks S wins on $1,060 less. The 2026 Kia Seltos LX has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $1,060 price gap, 141 vs 147 hp, 30 vs 29 MPG.
The Kicks S leads on $1,060 less. 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 | 2026 Nissan Kicks S | 2026 Kia Seltos LX |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $23,930 | $24,990 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 2.0L I4 |
| Horsepower | 141 hp | 147 hp |
| Torque | 140 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 | 30 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 12.4 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,450/yr | $1,500/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,196 lbs | 3,186 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 104.9" | 103.5" |
| Length | 171.9" | 172.6" |
| Width | 70.9" | 70.9" |
| Height | 64.0" | 63.6" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 4/5 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 2026 Nissan Kicks S and 2026 Kia Seltos LX?
The 2026 Nissan Kicks S starts at $23,930, $1,060 less than the 2026 Kia Seltos LX at $24,990. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $19/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Nissan Kicks S?
The 2026 Nissan Kicks S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,060 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Kicks S covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2026 Kia Seltos LX?
The 2026 Kia Seltos LX is the stronger pick when you prefer the Kia approach to the subcompact SUV segment.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Nissan Kicks S or 2026 Kia Seltos LX?
The 2026 Nissan Kicks S rates 30 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Nissan Kicks S or 2026 Kia Seltos LX?
The 2026 Kia Seltos LX produces 147 hp, 6 more than the 2026 Nissan Kicks S at 141 hp. The 2026 Nissan Kicks S also leads in torque at 140 lb-ft vs 132 lb-ft.
Is the 2026 Nissan Kicks S bigger than the 2026 Kia Seltos LX?
The 2026 Kia Seltos LX is 0.7″ longer at 172.6″ vs 171.9″. The 2026 Nissan Kicks S has a 1.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Nissan Kicks 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: Nissan trims, Nissan Kicks trims, Kia trims, Kia Seltos trims
- 2026 Nissan Kicks S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Kia Seltos LX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Kicks vs Seltos: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Nissan Kicks S and 2026 Kia Seltos LX sit in the subcompact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $1,060 gap is about $19/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
Both run the same 2.0L I4 engine. The 6 hp difference (147 vs 141) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Kicks vs Seltos
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Nissan Kicks S when you want to keep $1,060 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Kicks S covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Kia Seltos LX when you prefer the Kia approach to the subcompact SUV segment. At $19/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
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 Nissan or Kia or any dealership.