Kia America has officially unveiled the second-generation 2027 Kia Seltos at the 2026 New York International Auto Show. This total redesign transforms the popular compact SUV into a tech-forward powerhouse, borrowing premium features from its flagship sibling, the Telluride, and introducing a segment-first hybrid powertrain.
Larger, bolder, and more capable, the 2027 Seltos is engineered for those who demand “upmarket” content without the premium price tag.
Exterior Design: A Bold, Modern Persona
The 2027 Seltos adopts Kia’s “Opposites United” design philosophy, resulting in a more commanding presence on the road. Taking styling cues from the award-winning Telluride, the new Seltos features:
- Increased Dimensions: A wheelbase extended by 2.4 inches, offering more stability and interior room.
- Signature Lighting: Amber Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) that frame a revamped front fascia.
- Sleek Aesthetics: New flush door handles and an available panoramic sunroof.
- Rugged Capability: Ground clearance has been boosted to an available 8.1 inches.
- X-Line Styling: The adventurous X-Line trim returns with unique bumpers, side sills with Piano Black trim, and dark gunmetal accents.
Interior: More Space, More Tech
Inside, the Seltos is “functionally sophisticated.” The cabin is more spacious, offering a 1-inch increase in rear legroom and a maximum cargo capacity of 64.1 cubic feet.
The Digital Cockpit
The centerpiece of the interior is a massive digital display setup. High-end trims feature nearly 30 inches of combined screen space, including:
- Standard 12.3-inch digital touchscreen.
- Available 12.3-inch instrument cluster.
- 5-inch climate display panel.
The system runs on Kia’s latest ccNC infotainment technology, supporting Over-the-Air (OTA) updates, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. For the first time, Seltos owners can access the Kia Connect Store to stream Disney+, Netflix, and YouTube, or customize their dash with NBA or FIFA World Cup themes.
Three Ways to Adventure: Introducing the Seltos Hybrid
Kia is diversifying the Seltos lineup with three distinct powertrain options, making it the only vehicle in its segment to offer such variety:
- 2.0-liter Four-Cylinder: Paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), available in LX, S, EX, and X-Line trims.
- 1.6-liter Turbocharged Engine: Delivering an estimated 190 horsepower through an 8-speed automatic transmission, standard on the 1.6T X-Line.
- 1.6-liter Hybrid (HEV): A first for the Seltos, this powertrain features a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission and a Kia-first electric-AWD (e-AWD) system for a Hybrid SUV.
Safety and ADAS: Flagship Features in a Compact Package
The 2027 Seltos brings “big SUV” safety to the compact segment. New standard and available Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) include:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning.
- Blind-Spot View Monitor: A live video feed of your blind spot directly in the digital cluster.
- 360° Surround-View Monitor.
- Safe Exit Warning: Alerts passengers to approaching vehicles when opening doors.
Availability and Release Date
The 2.0L and 1.6T versions of the 2027 Kia Seltos are expected to arrive in U.S. showrooms in Q2 2026. The highly anticipated Seltos Hybrid (HEV) is slated for a late Q4 2026 release.
Pricing and official EPA fuel economy ratings will be announced closer to the on-sale dates. For more information and updates, visit Kiamedia.com.
At a Glance: 2027 Kia Seltos Specs
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Max Cargo Space | 64.1 cu-ft |
| Max Ground Clearance | 8.1 inches |
| Wheelbase Increase | +2.4 inches |
| Screen Space | Up to ~30 inches (combined) |
| Powertrains | 2.0L, 1.6T, 1.6L Hybrid (HEV) |
| New Features | e-AWD (Hybrid), Flush Handles, OTA Updates |
