2nd Generation Subcompact SUV Will Add Hybrid
Kia today introduced, via a global virtual launch, the new 2027 Seltos. This second generation Seltos, replacing gen one introduced in 2021 (reviewed here by Clean Fleet Report), is a subcompact SUV in the Kia SUV line-up that is, smallest to largest, of Soul (about to be discontinued), Seltos, Sportage, Sorento and Telluride.
The new Seltos is slightly larger inside and out, sporting a new smooth exterior following the design language lead of Kia’s just-introduced halo model—the Telluride. While the powertrain looks be a carryover (not all details for the U.S. model were announced, Kia did announce a hybrid option would show up during 2026.
A bit of a stretch
Exterior Changes
Most of the changes from the outgoing Seltos are visible—a wider grille with a dynamic welcome light sequence, flush door handles, diagonal door character lines and a floating roofline with roof rails. Kia has stretched the wheelbase about 2.5 inches in a two-inch longer overall package. The new Seltos is also a little more than one-inch wider, but actually is slightly shorter than the outgoing model. The vertical tail lights are connected by a horizontal strip with matte exterior colors of Ivory, Silver, Magma Red and Dark Gun Metal, joined by Iceberg Green and Gravity Gray.
Simple Interior
The slightly larger exterior translates into a more spacious interior. Tall windows should provide excellent forward and side visibility. The low dash features a panoramic display combining two 12.3-inch screens. Touch controls are on the right-hand infotainment portion and a configurable gauge cluster on the left that compliments the 12-inch head-up display.
The multimedia system has AM/FM HD and SiriusXM radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. USB ports (100W) and wireless phone charging are standard.
Hybrid Coming
The 2027 Kia Seltos is a world car with engines and transmission choices varying by country. The Seltos will have 2WD or 4WD with three gasoline engines and five transmissions. The specific combination for the United States and Canada were not revealed, although the 2026 Seltos offered the 190 hp 1.6L GDI and the 148 hp 2L. the engine appear to be carryovers, as are the stateside available CVT and 8-speed automatic.
An undefined hybrid powertrain will be introduced during 2026, Kia said. Kia has all that technology on the shelf, currently showing up throughout its SUV lineup.
1.6-liter T-GDI High Output. 190 hp and 196 lb.-ft. of torque
1.6-liter T-GDI Standard Output. 177 hp and 196 lb.-ft. of torque
2.0-Liter non-turbo, 148 hp and 133 lb.-ft. of torque
6-speed manual
6-speed dual clutch automatic
7-speed dual clutch automatic
CVT automatic
8-speed automatic
The carryover MacPherson strut front and torsion beam multi-link rear suspension will keep 16-to-19-inch tires grounded.
Safety and Convenience
The 2027 Seltos will come standard with active and passive advanced driver assist system (ADAS), including multiple airbags, highway driving assist, lane following assist, forward collision-avoidance assist, safe exit warning, surround view monitor and parking collision-avoidance assist-reverse.
The Kia AI Assist feature is powered by ChatGPT.
Pricing and Availability
Global production of the all-new 2027 Seltos begins this month with the launch cadence throughout 2026 moving from India to Korea, then North America, Europe and China.
Pricing will be released prior to the on-sale date.
Observations: 2027 Kia Seltos
Kia is making the right move in our view by adding a hybrid Seltos this coming year. That should solidify its leadership position in electrification by giving all of its SUV lineup a variety of hybrid, plug-in hybrid and EV options.
When Kia hands the Seltos keys to the media we will report on its drivability, ride quality, performance and real-world driving range. Until then, make sure to opt-in to the Clean Fleet Report newsletter (top right of page) to be notified of all new stories and vehicle reviews.
Story by John Faulkner. Photos by Kia.
The post News: 2027 Kia Seltos first appeared on Clean Fleet Report.
