Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2023 Kia Seltos Base
Our scoring places the 2023 Kia Seltos Base at 7.7/10 overall, which translates to a Recommended rating for this suv. Its strongest dimension is Performance at 7.8/10, while Safety at 6.6/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. Reliability is the weak spot: 6.8/10, under the class average. Review the recall record on this page and price in extra maintenance headroom. Safety is a notable gap at 6.6/10 in our scoring — below what the best in segment deliver. Check the official NHTSA ratings for the trim you're considering before deciding.
Performance scores 7.8/10 — competent for everyday use. Acceleration and handling are adequate for commuting and highway driving, though enthusiasts will want to look at higher-rated alternatives. Tech rates a reasonable 7.3/10: the essentials are covered and well executed, but rivals at the same price often include more as standard.
Priced from $23,658–$29,809, 29 MPG, seating 5, the Kia Seltos Base sits in the budget-friendly tier of the suv market. The value score of 6.9/10 is a red flag — comparable alternatives offer meaningfully more for the same outlay. Shop the segment before deciding. At 3 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Our take: The 2023 Kia Seltos Base is a solid, well-rounded suv that covers the essentials without obvious deal-breakers. The main caveat is value and reliability and safety — worth checking if those dimensions are priorities for you. For most buyers in this segment, it's a safe, dependable choice.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among SUVs
The 2023 Kia Seltos Base ranks #564 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 77% of the segment. Its 7.7/10 overall score is 0.3 points above the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $23,658 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $36,079 by about 34%.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Seltos Base Year Should You Buy?
Across the Seltos Base model years we've scored, the 2023 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Competent performance that satisfies most everyday driving demands
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Reliability scores are mid-pack; some owners report higher-than-expected maintenance needs
Tech suite is functional but lags behind segment-best options; some features cost extra
Common Questions — 2023 Kia Seltos Base
Is the 2023 Kia Seltos Base reliable?
We rate the 2023 Kia Seltos Base's reliability 6.8/10 — below the segment average, so budget for higher maintenance.
Is the 2023 Kia Seltos Base worth buying?
It scores 7.7/10 overall, ranking #564 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 77% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2023 Kia Seltos Base cost?
The 2023 Kia Seltos Base starts at $23,658 and ranges up to $29,809 across trims (MSRP when new). At 29 MPG, expect roughly $1,810/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Seltos Base years should you avoid?
No standout weak years: across the 5 Seltos Base model years we've scored, every year lands within half a point of the best (7.8/10). Pick on price and condition rather than year.
Owner Essentials — Kia Seltos Base
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More Kia Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Kia models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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