2027 Kia Seltos Brings More Space, More Tech, and a New Hybrid Option

Kia unveiled the all-new 2027 Seltos at the New York International Auto Show. The second-generation model is larger, better equipped, and now available with a hybrid powertrain for the first time.

Bigger Inside and Out

The 2027 Seltos is longer and wider than its predecessor, with a wheelbase stretched 2.4 inches. Rear legroom increases by one inch, overall headroom, shoulder room, and hip room all improve, and cargo capacity reaches an estimated 27.8 cubic feet behind the second row and 64.1 cubic feet with the seats folded. Ground clearance climbs to an available 8.1 inches, up from 7.3 inches on the outgoing model.

Three Powertrain Options

The Seltos offers three engine choices, which Kia says is unique in the segment. The base 2.0-liter four-cylinder pairs with a CVT and is available with front-wheel drive or AWD. The X-Line gets a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine producing an estimated 190 horsepower and drives through an eight-speed automatic. New for this generation is a hybrid combining a 1.6-liter engine with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission. The hybrid also introduces an available electric AWD system, a first for a Kia hybrid SUV. Fuel economy figures have not yet been released.

Tech That Punches Above Its Class

The 2027 Seltos gets a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen. Higher trims add a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a separate 5-inch climate control display, bringing total screen real estate to nearly 30 inches. The system supports over-the-air updates, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and available streaming through Netflix, YouTube, and Disney+. An available generative AI voice assistant activates with the phrase "Hey, Kia." Display themes for all 30 NBA teams and select Disney brands are also available through the Kia Connect Store.

More Driver Assistance Technology Comes Standard

Standard ADAS now includes Forward Collision Avoidance with Junction Turning, Smart Cruise Control with stop-and-go, Hands-On Detection, and front- and rear-parking distance warning. Available upgrades include a 360-degree Surround View Monitor, Blind-Spot View Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Avoidance, and Safe Exit Warning.

Design Takes Cues from the Telluride

The new Seltos adopts a boxier, more upright profile with Telluride-inspired styling, including amber DRL frames, available flush door handles, and chiseled bodywork. The X-Line adds blacked-out exterior trim, unique bumpers, and 19-inch wheels. New exterior colors include Terrain Brown, Frost Blue, and Snow White Pearl with a black roof option.

Pricing and Availability

The 2.0-liter and 1.6T models are expected to go on sale in Q2 2026, with the hybrid variant following in late 2026. Kia has not officially announced pricing for any trim. The outgoing 2026 Seltos started at $25,285, and industry analysts expect the 2027 model to start at a similar price, with fully loaded trims and the hybrid pushing toward the $30,000 to $38,000 range. Official pricing will be announced closer to the on-sale date.