2027 Kia Seltos
The grown-up subcompact that finally feels complete
Highlights at a Glance
Overview
Kia has taken the Seltos and done what many buyers have quietly wanted for years: it grew up. The 2027 model is a full second-generation redesign on a new platform shared with the latest Hyundai Kona. It is longer, wider, and rides on a significantly longer wheelbase than the outgoing car.
The visual language now clearly ties into Kia’s more recent family members — think Telluride and EV9 influence in the upright grille, bold lighting signatures, and cleaner surfacing. Inside, the transformation is even more pronounced. Dual 12.3-inch displays dominate the dashboard, materials feel richer in higher trims, and rear-seat space has improved enough that adults can actually sit comfortably for longer trips.
Powertrain choices expand for the first time with a hybrid joining the carryover 2.0-liter and 1.6-liter turbo options. Pricing starts just under $25,000 before destination, which keeps the Seltos aggressively positioned against the Honda HR-V, Hyundai Kona, Toyota Corolla Cross, and Subaru Crosstrek. The question isn’t whether this is the best Seltos yet — it clearly is. The real question is whether it finally becomes the default recommendation in the segment.
Basic Information & Key Specifications
| Model Name | 2027 Kia Seltos |
| Brand / Manufacturer | Kia Corporation (Hyundai Motor Group) |
| Country of Origin | South Korea (various global assembly locations) |
| Model Year | 2027 (second generation, all-new platform) |
| Body Style | 5-door subcompact crossover SUV |
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
| Power Type | Gasoline (standard) / Hybrid (new for 2027, late availability) |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive (standard on most) or All-wheel drive (optional or standard on higher trims); eAWD on hybrid |
| Engine Options | 2.0L I4 (147 hp) • 1.6L Turbo I4 (190 hp) • 1.6L Hybrid (155–179 hp combined) |
| Transmission | CVT (2.0L) • 8-speed automatic (Turbo) • 6-speed dual-clutch (Hybrid) |
| Horsepower | 147 hp (2.0L) • 190 hp (1.6T) • 155 hp FWD / 179 hp AWD (Hybrid combined) |
| Torque | 132 lb-ft (2.0L) • 195 lb-ft (1.6T) • ~195–240 lb-ft (Hybrid system) |
| 0–60 mph (estimated) | 8.5–9.0 seconds (2.0L) • 7.2–7.5 seconds (1.6T) • ~8.0–8.8 seconds (Hybrid) |
| Top Speed | ~115–120 mph (electronically limited) |
| Combined Fuel Economy (EPA est.) | 28–30 mpg (2.0L FWD) • 24–26 mpg (Turbo AWD) • ~48–52 mpg (Hybrid est.) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13.2 gallons (50 liters) — gasoline models |
| Dimensions (L × W × H) | 174.4 in × 72.0 in × 63.0–64.9 in (4,430 mm × 1,830 mm × 1,600–1,650 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 105.9 in (2,690 mm) |
| Curb Weight | 3,109–3,406 lbs (FWD) 3,318–3,583+ lbs (AWD variants) |
| Ground Clearance | 6.3 in (standard) • up to 8.1 in (X-Line SX) |
| Cargo Volume | 27.8 cu ft behind rear seats / 64.2 cu ft maximum |
| Starting MSRP (excl. destination) | $24,990 (LX FWD) |
| Top MSRP (excl. destination) | ~$32,790–$34,285 (X-Line SX Turbo AWD) |
Figures are manufacturer estimates and EPA where available. Hybrid powertrain arrives later in the 2026 calendar year for most markets.
What’s New for 2027
| Area | Key Changes |
|---|---|
| Platform & Size | New global platform (shared with updated Kona). Wheelbase stretched 2.4 inches, overall length up ~1.8 inches. Rear legroom and cargo space both improved meaningfully. |
| Design | Bolder, more upright Kia family face with integrated lighting signatures, flush door handles on higher trims, and X-Line rugged styling package. Less European and more confident SUV presence. |
| Powertrain | All-new 1.6L hybrid joins the 2.0L and 1.6T gasoline engines. Hybrid uses 6-speed DCT and offers FWD or eAWD configurations. Gas models carry over with minor calibration updates. |
| Interior & Technology | Standard dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays on most trims. New infotainment interface with OTA updates and available AI assistant features. Higher trims add Harman Kardon audio, ventilated seats, and head-up display options. |
| Safety & Driver Assistance | Expanded Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with junction turning and cyclist detection. Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA 2) now available. Blind-spot collision avoidance and rear cross-traffic assist standard or available across lineup. |
| Ride & Handling | Revised suspension tuning for better refinement. X-Line models gain higher ground clearance and Multi-Terrain modes. Overall more composed and quiet on the highway than the previous generation. |
Pros & Cons
Strengths
- • Excellent value — loaded with features at a lower price than most direct rivals
- • Noticeably roomier rear seat and cargo area than the previous Seltos
- • Modern dual-screen cockpit feels premium even in mid-level trims
- • Industry-best 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty
- • Hybrid option brings class-leading efficiency without sacrificing much utility
- • Comprehensive ADAS suite with highway assist available
- • X-Line trim offers legitimate light off-road capability with higher ground clearance
Limitations
- • Base 2.0-liter engine is adequate but uninspiring for highway merging or mountain driving
- • CVT in base models can feel rubbery under hard acceleration
- • Hybrid availability is delayed until late 2026 in most markets
- • Some lower-trim interior plastics still feel hard and utilitarian
- • Towing capacity remains modest (roughly 1,000–1,500 lbs)
- • AWD adds meaningful cost and a small fuel economy penalty
- • Real-world hybrid pricing and exact EPA numbers still pending final confirmation
Pricing (US Market, 2027 Model Year)
| Trim | Drivetrain | Engine | MSRP (excl. destination) | Est. with destination |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LX | FWD | 2.0L | $24,990 | $26,485 |
| S | FWD | 2.0L | $26,390 | $27,885 |
| LX | AWD | 2.0L | $26,690 | $28,185 |
| S | AWD | 2.0L | $28,090 | $29,585 |
| EX | FWD | 2.0L | $28,390 | $29,885 |
| X-Line S | AWD | 2.0L | $28,990 | $30,485 |
| EX | AWD | 2.0L | $30,090 | $31,585 |
| X-Line SX | AWD | 1.6T | $32,790 | $34,285 |
Destination fee approximately $1,495. Hybrid trims expected to carry a $1,500–$2,500 premium when they arrive. Prices subject to final confirmation.
Powertrain, Performance & Engine
The 2027 Seltos keeps the same basic engine family as before but adds meaningful hybrid capability. The 2.0-liter base engine prioritizes efficiency and low-end usability. The 1.6-liter turbo remains the enthusiast choice for those who want stronger passing power. The new hybrid bridges the gap beautifully for most buyers.
| Powertrain | Horsepower | Torque | Transmission | Drivetrain | 0–60 mph (est.) | Combined MPG (est.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0L I4 | 147 hp | 132 lb-ft | CVT | FWD / AWD | 8.5–9.0 sec | 28–30 (FWD) 26–28 (AWD) |
| 1.6L Turbo I4 | 190 hp | 195 lb-ft | 8-speed auto | AWD | 7.2–7.5 sec | 24–26 |
| 1.6L Hybrid | 155 hp (FWD) 179 hp (AWD) |
~195–240 lb-ft (system) | 6-speed DCT | FWD / eAWD | 8.0–8.8 sec | ~48–52 (projected) |
Handling & Dynamics
| Driving Scenario | Impression | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| City / Stop-and-go | Comfortable and predictable | Light steering effort makes tight parking and U-turns easy. The CVT keeps revs low and smooth in traffic. |
| Highway cruising | Composed and quiet | Longer wheelbase helps stability. Wind and tire noise are well suppressed compared to the previous generation. Good for long-distance comfort. |
| Cornering & Handling | Competent but not sporty | Body roll is controlled for a crossover. The turbo model feels more planted thanks to AWD and stiffer tuning. X-Line adds grip in slippery conditions. |
| Ride quality | Well-damped and absorbent | New platform absorbs bumps better than before. X-Line models trade a bit of plushness for higher clearance but remain comfortable on pavement. |
| Braking | Strong and progressive | Pedal feel is consistent. The hybrid’s regenerative braking blends smoothly in most situations. |
Comfort & Ride Quality
The longer wheelbase pays dividends here. Rear-seat passengers get noticeably more legroom and thigh support than in the previous Seltos. The ride is absorbent over broken pavement while still feeling controlled on undulating roads.
Higher trims add dual-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a quieter cabin thanks to additional sound-deadening material. Even base models are reasonably quiet at 70 mph.
Build Quality & Materials
Kia has clearly spent money on the interior. Soft-touch surfaces now cover the upper dashboard and door panels on EX and above. The fit and finish of the new dual-screen assembly is excellent — no visible panel gaps or cheap-looking seams.
Lower trims still use harder plastics on the lower dash and door cards, which is typical in this price segment. The steering wheel and shifter feel substantial. Overall, the cabin now feels like it belongs in a car costing several thousand more.
Dimensions & Exterior Design
| Length | 174.4 in (4,430 mm) |
| Width | 72.0 in (1,830 mm) |
| Height | 63.0–64.9 in (1,600–1,650 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 105.9 in (2,690 mm) |
| Front / Rear Track | ~61.6 / 62.0 in |
| Ground Clearance | 6.3 in (standard) / 8.1 in (X-Line) |
| Approach / Departure Angle | ~17.7–18.9° / ~26.9–27.2° |
| Cargo (behind rear / max) | 27.8 / 64.2 cu ft |
Styling verdict
The new Seltos looks more substantial and confident. The upright grille and slim LED lighting give it presence that the previous model sometimes lacked. X-Line models with blacked-out trim, roof rails, and 18- or 19-inch wheels look particularly purposeful.
Color options include several new matte and two-tone choices that enhance the more rugged stance. The overall design language feels current and should age well.
Interior, Technology & Practicality
Interior Features
- • Dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays (cluster + infotainment)
- • Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- • Available Harman Kardon premium audio
- • Dual-zone automatic climate (higher trims)
- • Heated & ventilated front seats (higher trims)
- • 64-color ambient lighting
- • Power driver seat + memory (select trims)
Technology & Infotainment
- • Latest Kia infotainment with OTA software updates
- • Available AI voice assistant (ChatGPT-powered features)
- • 360-degree camera system (higher trims)
- • Wireless phone charging
- • Multiple USB-C ports (front and rear)
- • Available head-up display
- • Over-the-air feature-on-demand options
Space & Practicality
- • Rear legroom improved to ~38.9–39 in
- • 60/40 split-folding rear seats
- • Dual-level cargo floor with hidden storage
- • Good front headroom even with sunroof
- • Easy-to-use LATCH anchors for child seats
- • Available panoramic sunroof
- • Roof rails on most trims for bike/ski racks
Efficiency & Fuel Economy
| Powertrain | City | Highway | Combined | Est. Range (full tank) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0L FWD | 28 mpg | 33 mpg | 30 mpg | ~396 miles | Best for pure efficiency on a budget |
| 2.0L AWD | 26 mpg | 30 mpg | 28 mpg | ~370 miles | Small penalty for all-weather capability |
| 1.6T AWD | 24 mpg | 27–30 mpg | 25–26 mpg | ~330–343 miles | Performance-oriented choice |
| 1.6L Hybrid (est.) | — | — | ~48–52 mpg | ~630+ miles | Game-changer for commuting and road trips |
Safety Features & Ratings
Standard / Available Driver Assistance
Expected Ratings
Trim Comparison (Key Differences)
| Feature | LX / S | EX | X-Line S / SX |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wheels | 16–17″ | 18″ | 18–19″ (black or machined) |
| Infotainment | 12.3″ touchscreen | 12.3″ + climate screen | Same as EX + premium audio option |
| Seats | Cloth | Leatherette, heated | Leatherette or suede, heated/ventilated (SX) |
| Sunroof | — | Available | Panoramic available |
| Driver assists | Core suite | Full suite + HDA 2 option | Full suite standard |
| Ground clearance / styling | Standard | Standard | Higher clearance + rugged X-Line appearance |
| Best for | Value buyers | Best balance of features | Style + light adventure |
Reliability
Kia’s reliability has improved dramatically over the past decade. The previous Seltos earned above-average marks in most surveys. The new generation uses proven powertrains with updates, so early reliability should be strong.
Ownership Costs (5-year estimate)
| Fuel (15k miles/yr) | $1,400–$2,100 (gas) • ~$900–$1,100 (hybrid) |
| Maintenance & repairs | Low — Kia’s improved quality + 10yr warranty helps |
| Insurance (avg. driver) | $1,450–$1,850 per year |
| Depreciation (est.) | Moderate — strong residual values expected |
| 5-year total (rough) | $28,000–$35,000 (gas) • lower with hybrid |
Value for Money & Competitor Comparison
| Model | Starting Price (approx) | Combined MPG (base) | Rear Legroom | Key Strength | Key Weakness |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2027 Kia Seltos | $24,990 | 28–30 mpg | ~38.9 in | Value + space + warranty | Base engine modest |
| Honda HR-V | $24,600 | 28–31 mpg | ~37.0 in | Reliability & resale | Less powerful, tighter rear |
| Hyundai Kona | $23,500 | 29–32 mpg | ~36.5 in | Styling & warranty | Smaller cargo than Seltos |
| Toyota Corolla Cross | $24,500 | 30–32 mpg | ~36.3 in | Hybrid efficiency & resale | Less feature-rich base models |
| Subaru Crosstrek | $25,000 | 28–29 mpg | ~36.5 in | Standard AWD + off-road ability | Higher price, thirstier |
Real Owner Impressions (Early Feedback & Class Trends)
- • “Finally enough room in the back for my teenagers on longer trips”
- • “The big screens and wireless CarPlay make it feel modern”
- • “Ride is much smoother than my old compact crossover”
- • “Loaded with safety features I didn’t expect at this price”
- • “The warranty gives real peace of mind”
- • “Base engine feels a little flat when loaded with passengers”
- • “CVT hesitation on hard acceleration takes getting used to”
- • “Some hard plastics still show up in the lower cabin”
- • “Wish the hybrid was available right now instead of later this year”
- • “Road noise on coarse highways is still noticeable (though improved)”
Who Should Buy the 2027 Kia Seltos?
| Best choice if… | You want maximum features and space for the money, value a long warranty, and like the idea of a hybrid arriving soon. Ideal for small families, commuters, or anyone who previously felt the old Seltos was a bit too small inside. |
| Consider alternatives if… | You prioritize ultimate resale value and bulletproof reliability above all else (Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid). Or if you want standard all-wheel drive and serious light off-road ability without paying a big premium (Subaru Crosstrek). |
| Skip if… | You need strong acceleration from a stop in all conditions or plan to tow regularly. In those cases, step up to a larger Kia (Sportage or Sorento) or look at turbocharged competitors with more power. |
Video Reviews & Walkarounds
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2027 Seltos significantly bigger than the previous model?
When will the hybrid version be available?
Does the Seltos have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
How does the 2027 Seltos compare to the Hyundai Kona?
What is the towing capacity?
Is all-wheel drive worth it?
What safety ratings are expected?
How fuel efficient is the base model in real-world driving?
Does it come with a spare tire?
Is the Seltos a good first car for a new driver?
xCarSpace Verdict
The 2027 Kia Seltos is the version many people have been waiting for. It fixes the previous generation’s main shortcomings — tight rear space and dated interior technology — while keeping the sharp pricing and bulletproof warranty that made the original popular.
The base 2.0-liter is perfectly adequate for daily driving and delivers good fuel economy. The turbo model adds welcome punch for those who want it. The upcoming hybrid looks like the real star for efficiency-focused buyers. Ride quality and refinement have taken a clear step forward.
At the end of the day, this is a subcompact crossover that no longer feels like a compromise. It offers genuine family practicality, strong safety technology, and excellent value. If you’re cross-shopping the Honda HR-V, Hyundai Kona, or Toyota Corolla Cross, put the Seltos on your short list — especially once the hybrid arrives.
xCarSpace Expert Rating
| Performance | 7.7 / 10 | × 25% = 1.925 |
| Interior | 8.5 / 10 | × 15% = 1.275 |
| Technology | 8.8 / 10 | × 15% = 1.32 |
| Safety | 8.9 / 10 | × 20% = 1.78 |
| Comfort | 8.2 / 10 | × 15% = 1.23 |
| Value | 9.0 / 10 | × 10% = 0.90 |
| Overall Score | 8.4 | / 10 |
Reference Sources
- Official Kia Seltos page (kia.com)
- 2027 Seltos Trim & Specs Comparison (Kia)
- Kia Media Press Materials & Specifications
- Car and Driver 2027 Seltos coverage
- MotorTrend 2027 Seltos Review & Specs
Content compiled June 2026. All specifications and pricing are based on manufacturer information and reputable automotive sources at time of publication. Verify final details with your local Kia dealer as production and EPA estimates may be updated.
