Kia SUV model sells for dramatically less money in China than it does in the US
Published on Jul 12, 2025 at 7:03 PM (UTC+4)
by Molly Davidson
Last updated on Jul 08, 2025 at 6:46 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Kate Bain
The Kia SUV model known as the Seltos is being sold in China for a price that seems almost too good to be true.
Despite having nearly identical styling, features, and size, Chinese buyers are getting this SUV for less than $11,000, compared to US prices that can top $31,000.
From panoramic sunroofs to leather seats and a massive touchscreen, this model isn’t lacking anything on paper.
So why the massive discount? And why can’t Americans get one too?
VISIT SBX CARS – View live supercar auctions powered by Supercar Blondie
Same Kia SUV model, dramatically cheaper in China
The Chinese-market Kia Seltos is part of Kia’s subcompact lineup, and it’s essentially the same Kia SUV model sold in the US – down to its dimensions and exterior design.
It measures 172.6in in length with a 103.5in wheelbase, and it’s packed with standard features: LED headlights, 17 inch alloy wheels, a 10.25in infotainment display, and leather seating.
In China, pricing starts at just $15,300, and current promotional discounts cut that to a jaw-dropping $10,900.
And there’s even better news for those studying, as additional student rebates bring that figure even lower.
That means this Kia SUV model costs less than most used examples in the US, despite being brand new and nearly identical.
Why the Kia Seltos won’t be offered cheap in the US
Even though the Kia Seltos looks the same on both continents, the specs tell a slightly different story.
In China, buyers get a 1.5L engine making 113 horsepower or a 1.4L turbo with 140 horsepower – both front-wheel-drive only.
The US version of the Kia SUV model offers a more powerful 2.0L with 146 horsepower, or a 1.6L turbo with 190 horsepower and available all-wheel-drive, which adds to both cost and capability.
And you might be thinking, why not just bring the cheaper version stateside? Forget it.
Emissions rules, safety regulations, and import taxes would send the price soaring long before it hit a dealership.
Still, with a major Seltos refresh expected in 2026, Kia may use the Chinese-market playbook to re-strategize pricing or spec levels globally.
It’s not every day you see a Kia SUV model go for under $11k with this level of spec.
And for US buyers, today isn’t that day.
For now, the ultra-affordable Kia Seltos is staying exclusive to China, and Americans will just have to watch from afar.
Click the star icon next to supercarblondie.com in Google Search to stay ahead of the curve on the latest and greatest supercars, hypercars, and ground-breaking technology.
DISCOVER SBX CARS: The global premium car auction platform powered by Supercar Blondie
Molly Davidson is a Junior Content Writer at Supercar Blondie. Based in Melbourne, she holds a double Bachelor’s degree in Arts/Law from Swinburne University and a Master’s of Writing and Publishing from RMIT. Molly has contributed to a range of magazines and journals, developing a strong interest in lifestyle and car news content. When she’s not writing, she’s spending quality time with her rescue English staffy, Boof.
