Kia News: 2027 Kia Seltos Comes to the US Sporting a New Larger Platform, Hybrid Options, and up to 190 Horsepower

[Drew Dowdell]

New York - The second-generation 2027 Kia Seltos made its North American debut at the 2026 New York International Auto Show, arriving longer, wider, and with something no competitor in the compact crossover segment can match: three distinct powertrain options.

Three Powertrains

The base engine carries over as the 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder, paired with Kia's Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT). Available in LX, S, EX, and X-Line trims, it comes with front-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive. Step up to the X-Line and the 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder develops 190 horsepower, routed through an 8-speed automatic with standard all-wheel drive. Rounding out the lineup is a new hybrid powertrain, pairing a 1.6-liter four-cylinder with a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Seltos HEV also introduces e-AWD, a first for Kia on a hybrid SUV, delivering on-demand rear-axle power without a traditional driveshaft. Kia is reserving HEV performance figures and pricing for a later date.

The 2.0-liter and 1.6T are targeted to arrive at dealerships in the second quarter of 2026. The HEV follows in late 2026.

Bigger and More Capable

The new Seltos grows in every dimension compared to the outgoing model, with the wheelbase increasing by 2.4 inches. That extra footprint translates into more interior space, including an inch of additional rear legroom, along with gains in headroom, shoulder room, and hip room. Cargo capacity behind the second row is an estimated 27.8 cubic feet, expanding to 64.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Ground clearance rises from 7.3 to an available 8.1 inches. X-Line models add a new Multi-terrain AWD mode for light off-road use.

Styling borrows cues from Kia's flagship Telluride, including amber DRL framing the front fascia, bold angles, and available auto-flush door handles. New exterior colors include Terrain Brown, Frost Blue, and Snow White Pearl with a contrasting black roof. Standard wheels are 16-inch alloys; the X-Line 2.0L steps up to 18-inch alloys, and the X-Line 1.6T and X-Line HEV with e-AWD receive 19-inch black wheels.

Technology

Inside, the ccNC infotainment system features a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen. An optional configuration pairs it with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 5-inch climate control display, totaling nearly 30 inches of combined screens, matching what Kia offers in larger vehicles. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on all trims, and the system supports over-the-air updates. Available entertainment features include streaming for Disney+, Netflix, and YouTube, along with customizable display themes for all 30 NBA teams and select Disney brands. The HEV trim uses a stalk-mounted gear selector borrowed from the Telluride and EV9, freeing up the center console for open storage.

Advanced Safety

Standard on all 2027 Seltos models is Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning, Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Departure Warning, and front and rear Parking Distance Warning. Available features include a 360-degree Surround View Monitor and a Blind-Spot View Monitor that displays a live video feed of the corresponding blind spot when the turn signal is activated.

More Kia Coverage

• 2027 Kia Seltos: New Platform, Up to 190 HP, EV9-Inspired Styling
• 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid: Bigger, Bolder SUV with 329 HP and 600-Mile Range
• 2026 Kia K4 Sedan and Hatchback Pricing Announced

See all photos in the 2027 Kia Seltos photo gallery.

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