In a world of expensive cars, the Kia Seltos stands out as one of the best remaining affordable options. That said, the current version does look a bit outdated with a front-end design clearly from a generation ago and a dated cabin. That's why today Kia is introducing the second-generation Seltos, which is vastly nicer than the one it replaces.
The 2027 Kia Seltos rides on the automaker's K3 platform, which also underpins the Kia Niro and Hyundai Kona. The new Seltos is larger than the outgoing model, measuring about three inches longer overall, with an equal increase in wheelbase. It’s a bit wider, too.
Kia will offer the new Seltos with two familiar engines: two variants of the turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder and a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter option. In the US, the current Seltos comes with either the 147-hp 2.0-liter or the 190-hp 1.6-liter engine, matching the output of the powertrains of the second-generation crossover.
The high-output turbo engine comes paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, just as before. Kia will also offer all-wheel drive as a paid upgrade.
The Seltos will also gain a hybrid version with vehicle-to-load capability, but details are scarce. With the Seltos sharing a platform with the Niro Hybrid, Kia might be borrowing its powertrain for the crossover.
The second-generation crossover arrives with a new exterior design that has a wider front grille, a floating roofline, sharp styling lines, and vertical taillights. The Seltos gains door handles, and Kia will offer it with a new matte Magma Red exterior color.
Inside, the Seltos gets a complete revamp, with dual 12.3-inch displays on the dash. The crossover keeps a row of physical buttons for climate controls, and the design similarities with the 2027 Telluride are apparent.
Kia will continue to offer the Seltos in EX, LX, and SX trims, with GT-Line and X-Line trims also available. X-Line cars will have dark gun metal finishes for a more rugged look, while GT-Line models will have sleek body-color accents for a sportier appearance.
The Seltos will be capable of receiving over-the-air updates and feature an AI assistant for conversational interactions. The crossover will be available with a suite of driver-assist features and a head-up display.
Kia will begin building the second-generation Seltos in December, and it’ll go on sale in the United States sometime next year, likely as a 2027 model. The 2026 Seltos is already on sale, which starts at $25,135, including destination. We expect Kia to announce the Seltos’ pricing closer to its on-sale date sometime next summer.
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