2027 Kia Seltos Debuts with Hybrid Powertrain, Enhanced Tech

Kia officially unveiled the 2027 Seltos on July 14, 2026, marking the debut of the next-generation small SUV. The updated model introduces a new hybrid powertrain option, alongside a refreshed design and a range of technological advancements. Internal combustion engine (ICE) versions of the 2027 Kia Seltos are available for purchase now, with the hybrid variant expected to launch later this year.

Key Updates and Design

The 2027 Seltos is larger than its predecessor, with increased length, width, and a wheelbase extended by 2.4 inches. Its exterior styling takes cues from the Kia Telluride, featuring chiseled lines, amber daytime running lights, and available auto-flush door handles. Standard wheels are 16-inch alloys, with 18-inch options for the Seltos X-Line S and 19-inch all-black wheels for the X-Line SX and X-Line EX HEV trims. Ground clearance has also increased, now offering up to 8.1 inches.

Inside, the cabin offers a more spacious environment, characterized by a wide horizontal layout and an open center console design. The interior integrates technology with an available nearly 30-inch total combined panoramic display, which includes a 12.3-inch instrument display, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display, and a 5-inch climate control panel. Hybrid models can be equipped with a stalk-mounted shifter.

The larger dimensions contribute to a passenger volume of 103.5 cubic feet and a maximum cargo space of 64.2 cubic feet behind the first row. Second-row legroom is 39 inches, and total interior volume measures 131.3 cubic feet.

Powertrain Options and Technology

The 2027 Kia Seltos offers three distinct powertrain choices. The base engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder paired with Kia’s Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT). For increased performance, a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 190 horsepower, routed through an 8-speed automatic transmission with a standard Multi-Mode AWD system.

A new 1.6-liter hybrid (HEV) powertrain rounds out the lineup, featuring a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission. This hybrid system is available with Kia's first electric-AWD (e-AWD) on a hybrid SUV, providing on-demand all-wheel drive capability.

Technology features include the Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) with over-the-air update capability, and standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto across all trims. Available features include a Kia AI assistant, Kia Connect services for remote vehicle control, and Entertainment and Data Services supporting streaming from platforms like Disney+, Netflix, and YouTube. The cabin is equipped with five standard USB-C ports for device charging.

Pricing, Availability, and Safety Features

The 2027 Kia Seltos ICE models are currently on sale. The 2.0-liter engine is available in LX, S, X-Line S, and EX trims, with the LX starting at an MSRP of $24,990 and the EX at $30,090. The turbocharged 1.6-liter engine is exclusive to the X-Line SX trim, with an MSRP of $32,790. The Seltos HEV is scheduled for release later in 2026.

The 2027 Seltos includes an expanded suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Standard features include Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning, Front and Reverse Parking Distance Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, and Driver Attention Warning. Available ADAS technologies include a 360° Surround-View Monitor, Blind-Spot View Monitor, Side Parking Distance Warning with Reverse Parking Collision Avoidance, and Safe Exit Warning.

For consumers considering a small SUV, the 2027 Kia Seltos offers a wider range of choices with its new hybrid option, along with a more spacious interior and a comprehensive set of modern safety and connectivity features.