2025 Kia Seltos vs 2025 Nissan Kicks
Shopping Guide to the Nissan Kicks vs Kia Seltos
This shopping guide covers the basic facts about the 2025 Kia Seltos and 2025 Nissan Kicks. We’ve done our best to bring together the important aspects of each vehicle this model year.
This question and answer format should make it easy to find the information important to your shopping experience.
What’s New for 2025?
Entering a new generation, the 2025 Nissan Kicks looks more modern and boasts a bigger cabin. Originally introduced in 2016, the 2025 Kicks has upped its game with more features and technologies.
For 2025, the Kia Seltos has an improved transmission that works with a turbocharged engine that kicks out an extra 20 horsepower. Seltos X-Line trims have a more rugged look for those who have an adventurous spirit. Interior upgrades include a space-saving gear rotary controller inside and a cool light bar on the exterior. Learn more in this 2025 Seltos Review.
Is the Kia Seltos More Spacious than the Nissan Kicks?
The best way to know which SUV is most spacious is to look at the second row legroom. In this comparison, the Seltos SUV has 3.5 inches more than the 2025 Kicks. So despite the Nissan redesign, the Kia remains the most spacious.
Beyond this, it is important to hear how the second-row passengers are treated. Unlike the Nissan, Kia rear seats can recline for greater comfort. The standard armrest is an SR upgrade on the Kicks. It’s easier to keep cool since the Seltos has 2nd row air vents. It’s also easier to stay connected and charged with the Kia’s second-row USB ports. 
And what about the front row? The Seltos is offered with a 10-way power driver’s chair and available ventilated seats. We can’t find those features listed for the 2025 Nissan Kicks in Phoenix.
As for style, you will find five trim levels and four upholstery colors when you shop for the Seltos. The Kicks is offered with a single upholstery color in three trim levels. 
Which Subcompact SUV Has More Cargo Volume?
With its more spacious cabin, the Seltos is able to offer more cargo volume than the front-wheel drive Kicks. The difference grows from 2.8 to a full 12 cubic feet difference if compared to Kicks AWD models.
Both SUVs have the necessary 60/40 split rear seat. It is easy to make more space when you don’t need all of the seats. Kia goes further with its dual level cargo floor and available power liftgate. You won’t find either of those features on the Kicks.
Is the 2025 Seltos More Powerful than the Nissan Kicks?
When it comes to capability, the Seltos holds a slight edge with an extra five horses under the hood. The difference really comes when you upgrade the Seltos engine to the turbocharged four-cylinder. This powertrain delivers 195 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque.
As you may know, Kia brand SUVs have the longest powertrain coverage in the industry. It lasts up to five years longer than the Nissan coverage. So for those who want peace of mind, the Seltos is definitely the better choice. 
Which Infotainment System is Best?
The 2025 Nissan Kicks and Kia Seltos have a modern touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available WiFi. Both offer a true cockpit with a digital instrument panel. On the Kia, there is a panoramic glass panel that unites the touchscreen and the instrumentation.
While both offer premium audio systems, Kia goes a bit further. The Seltos can be equipped with ambient lighting that syncs with the music for a bit of excitement in the night.
For the ultimate convenience, the Seltos S and higher trims come with a remote starter. This feature is only listed on a top trim level for the Kicks. Furthermore, the Kia stays quieter with its exclusive acoustic windshield and can be pre-cooled with the Kia Access App.
Schedule a Seltos Test Drive
Although the Nissan Kicks is better than has been, the 2025 Kia Seltos remains the SUV to beat. It is true whether you look at standard features, favorite options, space or style. Ultimately the Kia SUV is the value package that shoppers really want.
To learn more, schedule a test drive at your Phoenix Kia dealership.
Most new vehicles include an “Earnhardt Protection Package” inclusive of highly-demanded, popular items designed to protect your investment such as lifetime window tint, door-edge guards and (for some vehicles) floor-mats. Price/cost of the “Earnhardt Protection Package” will range from $999 to $1,294 at this dealership for Cars, Vans, CUVs and SUVs ($999 window tint & door-edge guards as well as $295 floor mats, where applicable). Actual vehicle sale price and payments may vary for various reasons - including but not limited to - applicable manufacturer rebates, special limited time offers, dealer incentives, taxes, fees, and buyer's credit qualifications, dealer installed accessories, market product (or vehicle) scarcity and $599.00 dealer doc fee. Must qualify for some offers. Some offers may not be available with special financing, lease and some other offers. Financing on approved credit for well qualified buyers.
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APR based on Kia Motors Financing, on approved credit.
Max payload/towing estimate ratings shown.
Additional options, equipment, passengers, and cargo weight may affect payload/towing weights. See dealer for details.
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Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.