2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base vs 2026 Kia Seltos LX
33 more hp and 46 more lb-ft torque vs $2,005 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 180 vs 147 hp, 29 vs 29 MPG.
The Crosstrek Base leads on 33 more hp, 46 more lb-ft torque. The Seltos LX leads on $2,005 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 | 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base | 2026 Kia Seltos LX |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $26,995 | $24,990 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L flat 4 | 2.0L I4 |
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 147 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 132 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 27 |
| Highway MPG | 33 | 31 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.6 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,500/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,296 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 | No published data | 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 Subaru Crosstrek Base and 2026 Kia Seltos LX?
The 2026 Kia Seltos LX starts at $24,990, $2,005 less than the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base at $26,995. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $35/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base?
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base is the stronger pick when the extra 33 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 $2,005 in your pocket and the 2026 Kia Seltos LX covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 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 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base or 2026 Kia Seltos LX?
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base produces 180 hp, 33 more than the 2026 Kia Seltos LX at 147 hp. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base also leads in torque at 178 lb-ft vs 132 lb-ft. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2026 Kia Seltos LX uses a 2.0L I4.
Is the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base bigger than the 2026 Kia Seltos LX?
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base is 3.8″ longer at 176.4″ vs 172.6″. The 2026 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
- 2026 Kia Seltos LX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the Crosstrek and Seltos Stack Up
Two compact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base ($26,995) and 2026 Kia Seltos LX ($24,990) solve similar problems in different ways. The $-2,005 gap is about $35/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: Crosstrek vs Seltos
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2026 Kia Seltos LX uses a 2.0L I4. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base has 33 more hp (180 vs 147), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base adds 46 more lb-ft of torque (178 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 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base when the extra 33 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 Kia Seltos LX when you want to keep $2,005 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.