Kia is officially turning the page on one of its most understated models. The all-new 2027 Seltos arrives as a far more confident, expressive, and modern crossover — a complete rethink that finally brings it in line with the daring design language taking over Kia’s lineup. Once known as the “safe” choice among Kia SUVs, the Seltos now looks ready to be noticed.
This second-generation model brings everything buyers have been waiting for: a more mature exterior, an upgraded and much classier interior, new technology across the board, and a hybrid variant joining the lineup for the very first time.
A Bigger, Sharper, More Assured Seltos
Built on Hyundai Motor Group’s latest K3 platform — shared with the Niro, K4, Elantra, and Kona — the 2027 Seltos feels like a proper step up. It’s longer, wider, and sits with more authority on the road thanks to a stretched wheelbase and improved structural rigidity. Kia also increased its use of high-strength steel, giving the cabin a quieter and more refined feel.
But the design is what truly sets the new Seltos apart. The grille is wider and more expressive, the headlights are pushed dramatically into the edges of the front end, and the lighting signatures vary by trim, from clamp-style shapes to vertical LED bars. There’s even an angular light bar inspired by “winged eyeliner” — a small detail that says a lot about Kia’s newfound confidence.
Flush door handles, crisp surfacing, and fresh color options — including the stunning matte Magma Red — complete the transformation.
Proven Powertrains, Polished for 2027
Under the hood, Kia wisely sticks with what works:
2.0L naturally aspirated, 147 hp
1.6L turbo, up to 190 hp with an 8-speed automatic
All-wheel drive is available across the lineup, and AWD models benefit from a multi-link rear suspension and dedicated off-road modes for mud, sand, and snow. The upgrades don’t reinvent the wheel, but they make the Seltos more composed and capable than before.
The Hybrid Everyone Was Waiting For
A major first: the Seltos will finally get a hybrid version in 2026. Kia hasn’t shared full details yet, but it’s expected to borrow the Niro’s 1.6L hybrid setup, making around 180 hp and delivering seriously competitive efficiency. It will also offer Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, allowing the Seltos to power external devices — a feature that’s quickly becoming a Kia signature.
A Cabin That Feels More Premium Than Ever
Inside, the 2027 Seltos feels like it’s jumped several classes. The dual 12.3-inch screens dominate the dashboard, while the climate controls remain physical — a detail many drivers will appreciate. Ambient lighting accents the redesigned dashboard, and Kia has introduced more upscale two-tone color combinations, such as the elegant beige-and-brown setup.
The longer wheelbase translates into noticeably better rear legroom and improved cargo space, now supported by a dual-level cargo board. A traditional shifter stays, but now operates via shift-by-wire to free up space.
Premium features include:
Panoramic sunroof
Second-row seats reclining up to 24 degrees
Harman Kardon and Bose audio options
Head-up display
100-watt USB-C ports
AI assistant, video streaming apps, OTA updates
Digital Key 2 smartphone access
Kia’s latest driver-assistance tech — including Highway Driving Assist 2, advanced emergency braking, lane following, safe exit warnings, and a 360-degree camera — completes the package.
More Trims for More Tastes
Kia will continue offering familiar trims like LX, EX, and SX, while adding:
X-Line with a darker, rugged appearance
GT-Line with sportier, body-colored accents
Production and Market Rollout
Production begins this month, with India being the first market to receive the new Seltos. South Korea, North America, Europe, and China will follow throughout 2026. The hybrid will join shortly after.
Pricing remains unannounced, but with the current model starting around $25,135 USD (≈ 94,256 SAR), a slight increase is expected given the extensive upgrades.
