From launch to today
The Seltos launched globally in 2019 and reached the US as a 2021 model. It sits on Kia's K2 platform, shared with the Hyundai Kona and Kia Soul family, and was positioned as a boxier, more upright alternative to the curvy Soul.
Kia Seltos
USCar Trader import service
Import this model from the USA or Canada
Choose a specific vehicle. Where data is available, its detail page shows the import cost calculation. We assess any possible duty benefit with you before purchase.
Important: A 0% EU import-duty rate may be available for a vehicle covered by Regulation (EU) 2026/1455 that has US origin and is imported directly into the EU. CETA may apply to a vehicle with preferential Canadian origin. Whether the requirements are met is assessed for the individual case. Please contact us before purchase; we review the possible duty benefit and provide non-binding support through the process. Import VAT and other costs are assessed separately.
CarHub · Kia
Kia Seltos
The Kia Seltos is a subcompact crossover that slots between the Soul and the Sportage, and importing a used example from the United States can be an interesting way to secure a well-equipped, all-wheel-drive small SUV.
- Body style
- Typical figure (SX 1.6T AWD): Subcompact crossover SUV, 5 doors
- Seating
- Typical figure (SX 1.6T AWD): 5
- Engine
- Typical figure (SX 1.6T AWD): 1.6 L turbo I4 (base 2.0 L NA)
- Power
- Typical figure (SX 1.6T AWD): approx. 175 hp (2.0 approx. 146 hp)
Kia Seltos
Price:35,914.00 USD
Kia Seltos
Price:38,394.00 USD
Kia Seltos
Price:34,094.00 USD
Kia Seltos
Price:33,649.00 USD
Kia Seltos
Price:33,794.00 USD
Model profile
Model history and generations
Powertrain and equipment
Engines, drivetrain and trims
Engines and drivetrain in detail
US Seltos models offer two petrol engines. The base 2.0-litre naturally aspirated four (around 146 hp) is paired with a CVT and drives the front wheels or, on some trims, all four.
Trim levels and variants
The Seltos is a five-door subcompact SUV only. US trims ran LX, S, EX and the top SX, with the SX bringing the turbo engine, AWD, a larger touchscreen, Bose audio, a sunroof and full driver assistance.
Vehicle selection
North American market and suitability
Used availability in the USA
As a recent, popular small crossover, the Seltos is well represented in US inventory, especially in metropolitan areas.
When importing makes sense
The Seltos suits buyers who want a compact, practical and well-equipped crossover with real all-wheel-drive capability and a lot of standard technology.
Vehicle data
Technical data by generation and specification
Engine and drivetrain
| Body style | Typical figure (SX 1.6T AWD): Subcompact crossover SUV, 5 doors |
|---|---|
| Seating | Typical figure (SX 1.6T AWD): 5 |
| Engine | Typical figure (SX 1.6T AWD): 1.6 L turbo I4 (base 2.0 L NA) |
| Power | Typical figure (SX 1.6T AWD): approx. 175 hp (2.0 approx. 146 hp) |
| Torque | Typical figure (SX 1.6T AWD): approx. 265 Nm |
| Transmission | Typical figure (SX 1.6T AWD): 7-speed dual-clutch (base CVT) |
| Drivetrain | Typical figure (SX 1.6T AWD): AWD (FWD available on lower trims) |
| Fuel | Typical figure (SX 1.6T AWD): Regular gasoline |
| Length | Typical figure (SX 1.6T AWD): approx. 4370 mm |
| Width | Typical figure (SX 1.6T AWD): approx. 1800 mm |
| Height | Typical figure (SX 1.6T AWD): approx. 1615 mm |
| Wheelbase | Typical figure (SX 1.6T AWD): approx. 2630 mm |
| Kerb weight | Typical figure (SX 1.6T AWD): approx. 1400–1500 kg |
| Cargo volume | Typical figure (SX 1.6T AWD): approx. 433 L (seats up) |
| Model years (US) | Typical figure (SX 1.6T AWD): 2021–present |
Values are reproduced verbatim from the existing article table. The documents for the specific vehicle govern.
Pre-purchase review
Model-specific inspection points
Reliability and common problems
The Seltos is a young model with generally solid Kia Seltos reliability, but a few points deserve attention. The 1.6T dual-clutch transmission can feel jerky at low speeds and, on hard-used cars, benefits from a check of clutch behaviour and any software updates. The 2.0 with CVT is smooth but less engaging.
Germany and Europe
Differences, adaptation and registration
How US versions differ
US-market headlights use the FMVSS/SAE beam pattern, which differs from the ECE pattern required in the EU, so they may need adjustment or replacement with ECE-compliant units for registration.
From US purchase to registration
The assessment depends on the specific vehicle and the circumstances of the transaction. Please contact USCar Trader before purchase; we review any possible duty benefit and provide non-binding support. Import VAT and other costs are considered separately.
USCar Trader services
Inspection, purchase processing and escrow
As a buyer based in Germany, you do not have to inspect the vehicle yourself in the United States or Canada. Within the agreed scope, USCar Trader can coordinate document review, a separately commissioned on-site inspection and purchase processing.
- Vehicle profile and history: The profile can show the VIN, US title status and available history records. No data source guarantees that every earlier event was reported.
- Optional CARFAX report: Additional reported maintenance or service entries can be included. The report is not a complete service book or proof of every interval.
- On-site inspection / USCT AutoCheck: USCar Trader can arrange a separately booked vehicle inspection. Agreed visible and accessible areas are documented. Road or functional tests require suitable access and seller approval; the visual review is not a lift inspection or workshop diagnosis.
- Purchase processing and escrow: After approval, USCar Trader can coordinate seller contact, negotiation, contract and the escrow and import service. Fees, payment route and responsibilities are recorded in advance.
- Recalls: Open safety recalls can be checked by VIN through the NHTSA recall search; they do not describe overall condition.
Covered inspection points are agreed in advance. An on-site inspection records condition at the appointment and is not a guarantee.
Next step: Before commissioning, USCar Trader and the customer agree which document, history, inspection and transaction checks suit the vehicle and are included in the service. This records what was actually checked.
Import process
Import, customs, costs and delivery
Process for the specific listing
The import process for a Kia Seltos is planned around the specific listing, location, documents and commissioned service scope.
Questions and answers
Common questions about importing this model
Does this vehicle automatically qualify for a 0% import-duty rate?
No, not automatically. A 0% EU import-duty rate may be available for a vehicle covered by Regulation (EU) 2026/1455 that has US origin and is imported directly into the EU. CETA may apply to a vehicle with preferential Canadian origin. Whether the requirements are met is assessed for the individual case. Please contact USCar Trader before purchase; we review the possible duty benefit and provide non-binding support. Import VAT and other costs are assessed separately.
How is import VAT treated when importing a Kia Seltos?
Import VAT and other taxes or costs are assessed separately under the applicable rules and the circumstances of the individual case. A blanket answer for every vehicle would not be reliable.
Which version should I import?
The SX Turbo AWD offers the best equipment and traction; the 2.0 CVT is the economical entry point.
Is the dual-clutch transmission reliable?
If expressly commissioned, feasible at the vehicle location and approved by the seller, USCar Trader can arrange a driving assessment to document observable shift quality, shudder, hesitation or driveline noise; service and repair records are reviewed separately.
Will a US Seltos pass TÜV?
Yes, after lighting adjustments and a rear fog lamp are fitted and the Einzelabnahme is passed.
Is there a diesel Seltos?
Not in the US market; all imported examples are gasoline.
How is it shipped?
By container or RoRo ocean freight to a German port, followed by customs clearance.
Are parts available in Germany?
Yes, the Seltos shares much with European Kia models, so most service parts are readily available.
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