2025 Hyundai KONA vs. 2025 Kia Seltos

If you’re looking for a new car for your Virginia Beach lifestyle, the 2025 Hyundai KONA and Kia Seltos stand out in the compact crossover market. Both models offer unique features, and your choice will depend on your priorities. In this Hyundai KONA vs. Kia Seltos comparison, our team at Checkered Flag Hyundai World provides everything you need to know to choose the best SUV for your family adventures in Norfolk, Chesapeake, and our beautiful coastal communities.

Performance and Efficiency

Both crossovers offer two engine choices. The KONA starts with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, which achieves 29 mpg in the city, 34 mpg on the highway, and 31 mpg combined. For more power, the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine generates 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, providing 26 mpg in the city, 32 mpg on the highway, and 28 mpg combined with front-wheel drive. The Kia Seltos’ 2.0-liter engine delivers 146 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, achieving 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. Its 1.6-liter turbocharged version matches the KONA’s torque but offers 195 horsepower. The fuel economy of this engine drops to 24 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

Frequent commuters on the I-264 and I-64 will appreciate the KONA’s HTRAC all-wheel-drive system for extra peace of mind in unpredictable weather. The Seltos’ larger 13.2-gallon fuel tank offers a driving range of 383 miles, surpassing that of the KONA’s 335 miles with a 12.4-gallon tank.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo Space

The 2025 KONA features 101.2 cubic feet of passenger space in the SE, SEL, and SEL Convenience models, while the sportier N Line S, N Line, and Limited versions offer slightly less at 99 cubic feet. The Kia Seltos provides 99.6 cubic feet of passenger space across all trims. The KONA edges ahead with front headroom and legroom of 39.9 inches and 41.7 inches, respectively, compared to the Seltos’ 40 inches and 41.4 inches.

The Hyundai KONA provides 25.5 cubic feet of cargo space in the rear, which expands to 63.7 cubic feet with the seats folded, compared to the Seltos’ 26.6 cubic feet and 62.8 cubic feet, respectively. Although both are perfect for grocery runs or beach days, the KONA’s lower floor makes loading heavy items easier.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Both SUVs offer advanced technology features. The KONA features a large 12.3-inch touch screen with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, split-screen capability, real-time traffic updates, and Hyundai’s Bluelink system.

The base Seltos models have an 8-inch screen, while higher trims offer a 10.25-inch display with built-in navigation. Although both cars feature excellent audio systems and connectivity, the KONA’s larger screen and wireless setup are more convenient for tech-focused drivers.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The 2025 Hyundai KONA has earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, as well as an overall four-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This provides peace of mind when you’re navigating heavy beach traffic or merging onto the I-264 during rush hour.

Both SUVs are equipped with advanced safety technologies. KONA’s SmartSense system includes forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, smart cruise control, and highway driving assist for your Richmond road trips. The Seltos offers Kia’s Drive Wise suite of driver-assistance technologies, which includes blind-spot collision-avoidance assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view monitor.

Warranty, Trims, and Pricing

The KONA features a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper coverage, and seven-year/unlimited mileage rust protection. Hyundai also provides five years of 24/7 roadside assistance and allows warranty transfer to the next owner within five years or 60,000 miles, which adds resale value. The Kia Seltos offers 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and five-year/60,000-mile basic coverage.

At Checkered Flag Hyundai World, our factory-trained technicians, original equipment manufacturer parts, and convenient online scheduling enhance your ownership experience, ensuring your car stays in optimal condition.

The 2025 Hyundai KONA is available in six trim levels: SE, SEL, SEL Convenience, N Line S, N Line, and Limited, with MSRPs ranging from $24,550 to $32,100. The Kia Seltos offers five models: the S, EX, LX, X-Line, and SX. The base trim starts at $26,585, while the top-of-the-range is $32,585.

Find Your Perfect SUV in Virginia Beach

The 2025 KONA is ideal for Virginia Beach drivers. Its top safety ratings, expansive touch screen with wireless connectivity, and exceptional warranty provide outstanding benefits. With a lower starting price and versatile features, the KONA delivers excellent value, whether you’re navigating daily commutes or embarking on weekend adventures.

Visit us at Checkered Flag Hyundai World to check out our KONA lineup, determine your current car’s trade-in value, and take a test-drive around Virginia Beach. Deals, prices, and specifications change often, so give us a call for the latest information on finding your perfect KONA match.