Next Generation Seltos
When Kia introduced the Seltos in 2020, the compact crossover stood out in the lineup with classic SUV lines and rugged styling – a refreshing change from the typical crossover look. With the introduction of the all-new 2027 model at this year’s New York Auto Show, the Seltos is further embracing this style, but it’s more than just a new design. This second-generation Seltos gets significant updates inside and under the skin with new technology and, for the first time, an available hybrid powertrain.

Raising the Bar
“With the launch of the second-generation Kia Seltos the goal was to develop a small SUV that would raise the bar for the segment,” said Orth Hedrick, executive director, Product Planning, Kia North America. “Packed with many standard and available features found on the all-new 2027 Telluride, the 2027 Seltos offers a thought-provoking purchase consideration for cost-conscious shoppers who crave adventure.”

Bold Design
A first look at the 2027 Seltos, and I’m immediately reminded of the updated 2027 Telluride. In fact, the new Seltos looks like a mini version of the brand’s flagship SUV. The Seltos stands out with a bold grille featuring a vertical pattern and integrated headlights, flanked by slim vertical LED running lights.

Rear View
The vertical motif continues at the rear, where LED taillights frame the corners. An LED light bar spans the space below the rear window, giving the Kia a distinctive look at night and further emphasizing the small SUV’s wide stance. A large Kia logo in the center completes the look.

Strong Silhouette, New Platform
The new Seltos features bold fenders enhanced by the available gloss-black trim, creating the image of capability. Flush door handles and a floating roof design provide an upscale style, as do the available 19-inch wheels. More than just a pretty new face, the Seltos rides on an all-new platform that features 61 percent ultra-high-strength steel. More rigid than its predecessor, the Seltos should have improved driving dynamics, and the upgraded noise insulation should result in a quieter ride. In addition, the suspension and steering are optimized for the new model year. With its new platform, the 2027 Seltos rides on a longer wheelbase and is longer, wider, and taller than the previous generation, and its ground clearance has been increased to 8.1 inches.

Clean, High-Tech Design
Highlighting the redesigned Seltos’s cabin is Kia’s latest dashboard design, featuring a panoramic screen that incorporates dual 12.3-inch displays for the digital gauge cluster and infotainment, with a climate information panel between the two. The display integrates nicely into the clean, new dashboard, and there are still physical controls for easy access to popular features. A redesigned steering wheel has a modern design with clear, easy-to-use controls, and the available 12-inch head-up display provides pertinent information directly in front of the driver. The larger size translates to a roomier interior with more space for passengers and cargo.

New Center Console
The center console offers more storage, with a large bin below the armrest, as well as new cupholders and a wireless charging pad. On some trims, the gear selector is moved to a column-shifter style, freeing up more space in the center. A wireless phone charger is available, as is a 100-watt USB port for high-speed device charging.

Advanced Safety
Kia will equip the new Seltos with a wide range of available advanced driver assist features. These include Highway Drive Assist 2, Lane Follow Assist 2, safe exit warning, and reverse automatic braking. The Seltos will also be offered with a 360-degree surround view and Kia’s Blind-Spot View Monitor.

Under the Hood
Kia is offering three engine options for the 2027 Seltos. The 2.0-liter 4-cylinder and 1.6-liter turbo engines carry over from the previous generation, delivering 147 and 190 horsepower, respectively. Kia will also offer the Seltos with a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder hybrid powertrain teamed with a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission, featuring the brand’s first electric all-wheel drive system (e-AWD). The hybrid Seltos will arrive in late 2026, with details expected to be released closer to the on-sale date.

Coming Soon
When the 2027 Kia Seltos arrives in the second quarter of 2026, it will be available in LX, S, EX, and X-Line trims, with the turbocharged engine only available on the X-Line. Pricing should be released shortly.