If you’re looking for a small SUV, there are plenty out there, but we’ve got two respected rivals for you to consider. By breaking down the 2025 Kia Seltos vs Chevy Trailblazer features and performance, we’ll help you see which model offers the better all-around package. Let’s take a closer look.
Key Takeaways
- 2025 Kia Seltos’ trims are $26,085 to $32,585; Chevy Trailblazer models start at $24,495 and go up to $29,095. Prices effective April 23, 2025 and subject to change.
- Changes for both lineups were minor for 2025.
- The 2025 Seltos has more trim options than the Blazer.
Which Small SUV Has More Trim Options: 2025 Kia Seltos
Let’s start with the Trailblazer. After receiving a major design update in 2024, the 2025 model carries over mostly unchanged. The biggest updates include a new Marina Blue Metallic paint option and added E85 fuel capability for the base engine.
The Seltos also received major updates in ‘24, so there’s not much to report aside from a few trim-specific changes.
- The S trim now includes a redesigned instrument panel display, a one-touch up/down driver’s window, and 17-inch two-tone alloy wheels.
- Rear parking sensors and reverse parking distance warning are now standard on EX and SX trims.
- LA power liftgate is an addition to the EX AWD and SX trims.
- The EX trim also gains an available sunroof.
Seltos trim levels and prices are:
- LX: $25,965
- S: $26,465
- EX: $27,465
- X-Line: $30,665
- SX: $32,465
Trailblazer models are slightly cheaper, but there are less to choose from.
- LS: $24,495
- LT: $25,695
- RS: $29,095
- ACTIV: $29,095
Which SUV’s Interior Features More Tech and Quality Materials? It’s a Tie
While the Seltos is practical, there are some higher-quality materials that reflect more elegance than you would expect in such an affordable SUV. Luxe touches include speaker grilles with a 3D geometric pattern, a metal-styled passenger handle, air vents trimmed with silver, distinctive seat colors, and matching faux leather dash on upper trims.
The curved twin-screen stretching across the dash also reflects this elegance—the LX (base) trim features a 4.2-inch instrument panel and an 8-inch infotainment screen with physical buttons, while the upper trims feature two 10.25-inch screens.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on all trims, with SiriusXM satellite radio and a Wi-Fi hotspot available. The top-tier trim comes standard with interior ambient lighting that can pulse to the beat of your music for a more immersive vibe.
The Trailblazer’s interior is trimmed with black plastic no matter the model, but more expensive trims feature chrome and colorful accents throughout. This SUV’s 8-inch digital gauge cluster accompanies an 11-inch infotainment touchscreen. Two USB ports, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in Wi-Fi are standard; owners can upgrade to a Bose seven-speaker setup with the available Adaptive Cruise and Sound Package.
Which Small SUV Offers Greater Power: 2025 Kia Seltos
If you’re checking out the 2025 Seltos, you’ve got two engine options to choose from. There’s a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that puts out 146 horsepower and a zippier turbocharged 1.6-liter that bumps that number up to 195. The base engine comes with a smooth CVT, while the turbo pairs with an eight-speed automatic for a more responsive feel. All-wheel drive comes standard on most trims—except for the S and EX, which stick with front-wheel drive.
There are two engine choices for the Trailblazer, but neither is as powerful as the Seltos. The Trailblazer features:
- A standard turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder, generating 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, mated with continuously variable automatic (CVT) transmission.
- An optional turbocharged 1.3-liter, delivering 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission.
Both Trailblazer engines come standard with front-wheel drive, but you can opt for all-wheel drive if you need extra traction.
Which Small SUV Offers Better Fuel Economy: 2025 Kia Seltos
The Seltos’s fuel economy is 34 mpg combined for the front-wheel drive standard engine. The all-wheel-drive Seltos with the optional turbocharged engine gets a little less mileage at 32 mpg.
The Trailblazer doesn’t come close to hitting those numbers—its 1.2-liter three-cylinder gets 30 mpg/city and 31 mpg/highway with front-wheel drive, and if you run it on E85 fuel, those numbers drop to 22 mpg combined. The 1.3-liter does a bit better, offering 29 mpg/city and 33/highway with front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive provides 27 mpg combined.
Which Small SUV Is the Best Choice: 2025 Kia Seltos
While the Trailblazer is slightly more affordable and has many great qualities, the Seltos is the better buy overall, with its high-quality materials and better fuel economy. Stop by Alan Jay Kia today to experience it for yourself!