Entry-level compact SUV in North America gains variants of up to 193 hp and a look inspired by the brand's electric models; see details
Kia has made the 2027 Seltos lineup official for the North American market, introducing updates that seek to raise the bar for the entry-level compact SUV in the country. The renovation includes an increase in dimensions, the unprecedented offer of a hybrid variant and a design that aligns the model with the manufacturer’s most expensive SUVs, such as the Telluride and the electric EV9.
The SUV underwent a 6.1 cm growth in the wheelbase, which directly reflects on the legroom of the rear occupants and load capacity. Visually, the Seltos adopts more tapered headlights and a redesigned grille, in addition to an increased ground clearance to reinforce the size of an SUV. The wheels vary between 16 and 19 inches, depending on the version chosen.
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Under the hood, Kia offers three distinct configurations. The access variants (LX, S, EX and X-Line) maintain the 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine with 150 hp and 18,3 kgfm, coupled to the CVT transmission. The top versions use the 1.6 turbo, which delivers 193 hp and 27,0 kgfm. The big news, however, is the introduction of the Seltos Hybrid, which combines a 1.6-liter engine with a six-speed automatic transmission and an electric all-wheel drive (e-AWD) system.
In the cabin, the influence of the brand’s electric line is clear in the horizontal layout of the screens and in the gear selector positioned on the steering column. The panel can be equipped with two 12.3″ screens integrated under the same frame. In terms of practicality, the trunk offers 787 liters of volume, and can reach 1,815 liters with the folding of the second row.
Although sales are scheduled to start at the end of 2026, Kia has not yet detailed the price list for the US market. For Brazil, the arrival of the new model still depends on strategic definitions by the local importer.
