It’s April 1st, but no funny business here: Kia has finally unveiled the all-new 2027 Seltos for the North American market. You saw it first at the global launch last year, but now the shadowy teaser image shared last week has come to fruition, and it’s about what we expected.
The second-generation Seltos has a redesigned body and interior, as well as an available hybrid powertrain for the first time. Four trims will be available: LX, S, EX, and the return of the X-line with off-road styling, which was last available in 2025.
Unfortunately, no pricing has been announced yet, but the 2026 Seltos was priced between $24,300 and $31,700. However, new features could raise the price compared to last year’s model.
Bigger Body, More Room
The second-generation Seltos is longer and wider, with a wheelbase 2.4 inches longer than the previous model. This increase in size offers more space in nearly every area. Front and rear legroom grow by one inch, and cargo capacity rises to an estimated 64.1 cubic feet behind the first row and 27.8 cubic feet behind the second row.
The new body style might look a bit familiar, as it takes cues from Kia’s Telluride 3-row SUV. Yet, the subcompact Seltos has a flair of its own with its boxy shape and defined lines.
The vehicle’s front fascia has been significantly updated. Horizontal headlights are replaced with Kia’s latest vertical signature lighting, and the grille and front bumper are expanded and reshaped.
Three Powertrain Options, Including Hybrid Variant
Kia introduces a hybrid powertrain option for the first time in the model’s history. It will combine a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder hybrid engine with a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission. No official specifications are available yet, but we’ll learn more about the hybrid closer to the release date. Kia has said the hybrid Seltos will be available in front-wheel drive or with an e-AWD system, the first such kind for a Kia SUV.
The Seltos carries over the standard 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that’s paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The current model with that engine makes 147 hp. Still optional is a turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine making 190 hp, but will only be available on the top X-line trim.
The turbocharged engine features standard all-wheel drive (AWD), while the 2.0-liter powertrain is available with front-wheel drive (FWD) or optional AWD.
Telluride-Inspired Interior
The Seltos also takes design cues from the Telluride for its updated interior. The front cabin varies a bit depending on powertrain. The gas models, for example, have a traditional gear lever, while the hybrid uses a stalk-mounted shifter attached to the steering wheel.
The X-line trim features an exclusively black interior with SynTex upholstery and mesh headrests. An optional “Relaxation Seat” is available for the driver with the Prestige Package. Another significant upgrade is the addition of standard 12.3-inch dual infotainment and instrument displays.
The gas versions of the 2027 Kia Seltos are expected to go on sale in the second quarter of 2026, with the hybrid model following later this year. Pricing, trim options, and specifications will be announced at a later date.
