The 2027 Kia Seltos impresses with enhanced comfort, advanced technology, and a new hybrid option, positioning itself as a strong contender in the competitive compact SUV market.
IRVINE, CA – The drive from Irvine to San Juan Capistrano serves as an excellent test for any compact SUV, combining busy Southern California freeways, stop-and-go traffic, sweeping curves, and narrow city streets. Behind the wheel of the all-new 2027 Kia Seltos, this journey felt remarkably effortless.
One of the first things that stood out was the quietness of the cabin throughout the drive. Wind and road noise were minimal, even at highway speeds, allowing for easy conversations and reducing the fatigue often associated with longer trips. As temperatures rose during the afternoon, the climate control system maintained a consistently cool cabin without requiring constant adjustments, enhancing the overall comfort.
Despite its larger dimensions compared to the outgoing model, the Seltos remained easy to maneuver in traffic, parking lots, and tighter streets, delivering the agility buyers expect from a subcompact SUV.
This blend of refinement and practicality reflects Kia’s objectives with the second-generation Seltos. Rather than merely refreshing one of its best-selling models, the automaker has significantly expanded the vehicle’s capabilities, introducing new technology, increased interior space, and, for the first time, a hybrid powertrain.
Unveiled by Kia America in Irvine, California, the redesigned Seltos arrives at a time when competition in the small SUV market is intensifying. Rivals like the Toyota Corolla Cross and Honda HR-V have steadily raised expectations in recent years, but Kia appears determined to position the Seltos closer to the compact SUV class while retaining its entry-level appeal.
The styling of the new model immediately sets it apart. Drawing inspiration from Kia’s flagship Telluride SUV, the Seltos boasts a more upright stance, sharper body lines, and a stronger road presence than its predecessor. It resembles a scaled-down premium SUV rather than a budget crossover.
Despite its upscale appearance and expanded feature list, Kia has kept pricing competitive. The gasoline-powered Seltos starts at an MSRP of $24,990 for the LX trim and rises to $30,090 for the EX. Buyers interested in the turbocharged engine can opt for the X-Line SX, starting at $32,790, excluding destination and other fees. Pricing for the hybrid model will be announced closer to its launch later this year.
The redesign is more than just cosmetic. The 2027 Seltos is longer and wider than before, riding on a wheelbase that has grown by 2.4 inches. This additional size translates into more passenger room and greater cargo capacity, making the vehicle feel more like a compact SUV than many traditional subcompact competitors.
The cabin reinforces this impression. Higher trims feature nearly 30 inches of combined display space through a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a dedicated climate display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, while Kia’s Connected Car Navigation Cockpit supports over-the-air software updates, ensuring that the software remains current without requiring dealership visits.
For buyers seeking added convenience, Kia has significantly expanded the available feature list. Options include a heated steering wheel, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, a panoramic sunroof, a digital key, 19-inch wheels, matte exterior paint finishes, and a 360-degree surround-view camera system. Many of these features were previously reserved for larger, more expensive SUVs.
Driver assistance technology has also received a substantial upgrade. Standard equipment includes Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist 2, Driver Attention Warning, and front and rear parking sensors. Upper trims add features like Blind Spot View Monitor, the Surround View Monitor, and additional parking assistance systems.
One of the most significant changes comes under the hood. Kia continues to offer its familiar gasoline engines, including a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine and a more powerful turbocharged 1.6-liter engine. However, the standout addition is the Seltos’ first hybrid powertrain.
The hybrid model will also introduce Kia’s first electric all-wheel-drive system on a hybrid SUV. While detailed fuel economy figures have yet to be announced, the hybrid is expected to enhance both efficiency and everyday performance, providing buyers with another option in a segment where electrification is becoming increasingly important.
Automotive reviewers who previewed the redesigned Seltos have noted that Kia continues to emphasize value by equipping the SUV with technology and convenience features often found in larger vehicles. They also anticipate that the new hybrid option will bolster the model’s appeal by improving both performance and fuel economy while maintaining the Seltos’ reputation as one of the best-equipped vehicles in its class.
For Indian consumers, the new Seltos carries added significance. The model played a pivotal role in establishing Kia’s presence in India after its launch there in 2019 and continues to be one of the company’s strongest-selling global vehicles. Although Kia has not announced when the second-generation model will reach India, the launch is likely to attract considerable attention, according to India-West.