- Redesigned 2027 Kia Seltos arrives in the U.S. sometime in 2026
- The second-generation Seltos is longer, wider, and roomier
- A hybrid variant is coming to the Seltos lineup for the first time
The smallest Kia SUV is taking cues from the largest one. The 2027 Kia Seltos arrives with a new look and an SUV swagger inspired by the new 2027 Kia Telluride. For the first time, the Seltos will offer a hybrid option, Kia announced today during the model’s global reveal.
Details specific to the North American market are still to come, but the global debut showed a boxier Seltos with a more SUV-like presence. The 2027 Seltos stretches 1.8 inches longer and 1.1 inches wider, and it has a wheelbase that’s 2.4 inches longer than before. The added size in the second-generation Seltos should translate to a roomier cabin for up to five passengers.
Those larger proportions flex a new, more upright and blocky design. Vertical ends bookend a flush exterior studded with bulging wheel arches to give it a boxy SUV vibe. Thin vertical amber turn signals match the vertical taillights. The interior also resembles the Telluride, with a Land Rover-like steering wheel design and a low, horizontal dash. The brand’s twin 12.3-inch displays with intuitive interfaces center the cockpit.
What About the Seltos Hybrid?
Kia hasn’t said much, other than confirming that a hybrid will join the Seltos lineup in 2026 for the first time. The model will give Kia a more efficient competitor to the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid and the new Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid.
The hybrid model will feature the brand’s latest regenerative braking system. We’ve appreciated this feature in other Kia hybrids because it lets the driver control the vibe. In Sport mode, the paddle shifters change gears so the engine can rev higher for more power. In other modes, the paddle shifters adjust the regen brake settings, helping recapture energy and save fuel.
Initially, Kia will offer three engine options for the 2027 Seltos, although it’s unlikely all three will be sold the U.S.
The base engine will likely be the carryover 2.0-liter inline-4-cylinder engine that makes 147 horsepower. It pairs with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) with front-wheel drive (FWD).
Two turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engines will also be offered on the 2027 Seltos, one rated at 178 hp and a sportier one, likely in the GT-Line, rated at 190 hp. We don’t expect the 6-speed manual transmission to be offered here. A 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is possible, but given past issues with that transmission here, we expect it to come with an 8-speed automatic.
Optional all-wheel drive (AWD) should give the Seltos an edge over some other small crossovers, such as the Chevy Trax, which are FWD-only. The Seltos will feature compact MacPherson front struts and either a basic torsion beam rear axle or a more dynamic multi-link rear suspension, depending on the model.
How Much Will the 2027 Kia Seltos Cost?
Expect pricing of this all-new Seltos to increase over the current model when it is announced in spring 2026. The current 2026 Kia Seltos is offered in four trim levels, ranging from about $25,000 to $33,000. It’s one of our top picks for subcompact SUV drivers thanks to its overall value, class-leading 10-year powertrain warranty, and spacious cabin in a small footprint.
In addition to the new look and larger proportions, the redesigned 2027 Kia Seltos adds two new trims: the off-road-like X-Line variant and a sportier GT-Line model. It is expected to go on sale in North America sometime in 2026, likely in the summer.
