The Kia Seltos II 1.5 MPi (115 Hp) IVT represents an entry-level powertrain option within the second generation of the Kia Seltos, launched in December 2025. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and accessible variant, it caters to buyers prioritizing practicality and affordability within the compact SUV segment. This model is primarily targeted towards markets where fuel economy and lower purchase prices are key considerations. The Seltos II builds upon the success of the first-generation Seltos, offering a more refined design, updated technology, and improved safety features, while maintaining the original’s value proposition.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Seltos |
| Generation | Seltos II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 MPi (115 Hp) IVT |
| Start of production | December, 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 144 Nm @ 4500 rpm |
| Torque (lb.-ft.) | 106.21 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Smartstream |
| Engine displacement | 1497 cm3 |
| Engine displacement (cu. in.) | 91.35 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 447 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum (cu. ft.) | 15.79 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 47 l |
| Fuel tank capacity (US gal) | 12.42 US gal |
| Fuel tank capacity (UK gal) | 10.34 UK gal |
| Length | 4460 mm |
| Length (in.) | 175.59 in. |
| Width | 1830 mm |
| Width (in.) | 72.05 in. |
| Height | 1635 mm |
| Height (in.) | 64.37 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2690 mm |
| Wheelbase (in.) | 105.91 in. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission IVT |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring, Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/65 R16; 215/60 R17; 215/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Kia Seltos II 1.5 MPi utilizes Kia’s Smartstream engine family, a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, designated as a “Multi-Point Injection” (MPi) variant, employs traditional port fuel injection rather than the more advanced direct injection found in some other Smartstream engines. The engine produces 115 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 144 Nm (106.21 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4,500 rpm. The engine features a dual continuously variable valve timing (CVVT) system to optimize efficiency and performance across the rev range. The engine is paired with Kia’s Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), a type of continuously variable transmission (CVT). The IVT is designed to simulate stepped gear changes for a more familiar driving experience while maintaining the efficiency benefits of a CVT. The IVT features eight virtual ratios.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 MPi IVT powertrain delivers adequate performance for everyday driving situations. Acceleration is not particularly brisk, but sufficient for merging onto highways and navigating city traffic. The IVT transmission provides smooth and seamless gear changes, prioritizing fuel efficiency over sporty responsiveness. Compared to higher-output engine options in the Seltos II lineup, such as the turbocharged 1.6L engine, this variant offers a more relaxed and economical driving experience. The IVT’s programming is tuned for efficiency, which can sometimes result in a slight delay in response when requesting sudden acceleration. The front-wheel-drive configuration contributes to a lighter vehicle weight, further enhancing fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 MPi IVT trim typically serves as the base model for the Seltos II. Standard features generally include air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, power windows and locks, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Interior upholstery is typically cloth, and the dashboard features a functional, if somewhat basic, design. Optional extras available on this trim may include alloy wheels, a rearview camera, and upgraded audio systems. Higher trim levels offer features like leather upholstery, a larger touchscreen display, and advanced driver-assistance systems.
Chassis & Braking
The Seltos II utilizes a front-wheel-drive chassis with a MacPherson strut independent suspension in the front and a torsion beam suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. The braking system consists of disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight class. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. Steering is provided by an electric power steering system, offering light and precise control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Seltos II 1.5 MPi IVT has been generally well-received as an affordable and practical entry point into the compact SUV segment. Critics have praised its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride quality. However, some reviewers have noted its lack of outright performance compared to more powerful engine options. In terms of fuel economy, the 1.5 MPi IVT typically achieves competitive figures within its class. Compared to the turbocharged 1.6L Seltos II, the 1.5 MPi offers lower running costs but sacrifices some performance. Reliability is expected to be good, based on Kia’s reputation for building durable vehicles.
Legacy
The Kia Seltos II 1.5 MPi IVT powertrain is expected to offer long-term reliability, benefiting from Kia’s proven engine and transmission technology. The Smartstream engine family is designed for durability and low maintenance costs. As a used car, this variant is likely to appeal to budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical and fuel-efficient SUV. The IVT transmission, while not known for its sporty characteristics, is generally reliable if properly maintained. The Seltos II, as a whole, is poised to become a popular choice in the used car market due to its combination of value, practicality, and modern features.
