Don’t look now, but the race for the industry’s best subcompact crossover just got a whole lot tighter. The segment has enjoyed rapid growth in recent years as drivers gravitate toward the smaller end of the SUV spectrum, and Kia has capitalized on this with the Seltos. First introduced in 2021, the Seltos has quickly become one of Kia’s bestselling models, and it’s only improving with time. Now, 2027 sees the introduction of the all-new second-generation Seltos, with Kia making some major changes to the SUV’s powertrain, interior, and overall design. Kia also introduces two new trims to the Seltos lineup for 2027, each with a distinct focus. The X-Line sees the Seltos gain a new off-road option that’s ready to help you explore new terrain, while the GT-Line sees the SUV infused with the sporty styling of a true performance model. There are a lot of new additions to get excited about with the new Seltos, but one thing that hasn’t changed is Kia’s market-leading warranty. Let’s explore some of the highlights of the 2027 Kia Seltos for sale and learn how the subcompact crossover is helping Kia cement its position as a new automotive tastemaker.
Introducing the Hybrid
It’s a case of old meets new under the hood of the 2027 Kia Seltos. While Kia is content to stick with the same base engine and turbocharged upgrade found on the 2026 model, a new hybrid option will allow drivers to embrace a new era of efficiency while probably enjoying an even livelier ride. We say “probably” because Kia is still withholding some of the hybrid’s specific specs, though a bit of research suggests a likely candidate. Kia’s compact Sportage gained a hybrid powertrain back in 2023, and the 1.6L engine and electric motor would present a pretty perfect pairing for the similarly sized Seltos. The hybrid setup produces 231 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque in the Sportage, and drivers could expect similar output should the engine find its way into the Seltos.
Efficiency is obviously the major selling point of the hybrid engine. While Kia has yet to release any numbers, the electrically-assisted powertrain can achieve up to 44 MPG on the highway in the Sportage. One thing that we do know is that the Seltos hybrid will offer an innovative Vehicle-to-Load functionality that’ll allow it to power home appliances and electronic devices, as well as a new-and-improved version of Kia’s regenerative braking system. Drivers can dial in the perfect amount of regenerative braking every time they step behind the wheel with specific settings for Sport, Eco, and Normal modes, as well as a one-pedal setting dubbed i-Pedal. The system can also automatically adjust the amount of regenerative braking force based on changing traffic conditions and GPS data to deliver maximum efficiency.
The purely gas-powered Seltos will retain the 146 hp, 2.0L I-4 found on the 2026 model, as well as an available 1.6L turbocharged engine that provides a sportier ride with 190 hp, and an eight-speed automatic transmission that offers concrete performance benefits compared to the standard continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Seltos sets itself apart from much of the subcompact segment with an available AWD powertrain, which can still deliver up to 31 MPG on the highway. Rumor has it Kia will also introduce a lower-output 177-hp version of the turbocharged engine that’s paired with either a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) or a six-speed manual, but chances are it won’t make it to the North American market.
A New Style Icon
SUVs have long embraced a more fluid, car-like design, but they’re now swinging in the opposite direction to emphasize “utility” over “sport”. A quick survey of some recent 2026 and upcoming 2027 models proves that the boxy look is back in, with Kia’s midsize Telluride leading the way. The Seltos hops on the bandwagon with the debut of the 2027 model, which takes some clear design inspiration from two of the brand’s most popular models in the three-row Telluride and the innovative EV9 midsize crossover.
While the first-generation Seltos had a more hatchback-inspired silhouette, the new model embraces the squared-off appeal of an old-school SUV while still incorporating a number of modern styling cues and eye-catching lighting elements. A wider grille reflects the SUV’s geometric design and is complemented by Kia’s unique Star Map lighting. A new generation of LED lighting technology has allowed automakers to experiment with some bold designs, and they don’t come much bolder than the Seltos’ Star Map daytime running lights (DRL) and taillights. Inspired by constellations, these lights employ elaborate LED patterns to make the Seltos stand out in a crowded parking lot and even provide drivers with a preprogrammed welcome sequence every time they approach the vehicle. The Star Map DRLs can also be found on the 2026 Telluride and EV9, as can the Seltos’ flush door handles and a “floating roof” design with blacked-out pillars.
The Seltos is guided by Kia’s new “Opposites Unite” design philosophy, which prioritizes upright surfaces, bold geometry, and other bold elements that have helped the brand stay ahead of the curve in a quickly changing market. The SUV’s geometric shape not only lends it a utilitarian look but also conveys luxury connotations that add to the Seltos’ premium appeal. Many high-end SUVs like the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and Land Rover Defender employ a boxy design, and now the Seltos looks the part while ringing in at a fraction of the price.
Larger, Longer, and More Advanced
The Kia Seltos was already one of the roomier options in the subcompact segment, and could very well be vying for the crown as the new second-generation model makes its way to the market. Kia has stretched the SUV by 1.8 inches, widened the Seltos by 1.1 inches, and increased the wheelbase by 2.4 inches to make the 2027 model even roomier than before. Again, exact specs are tough to come by, but odds are the Seltos will easily retain its second-place finish showing or even vie for the top spot. The 2026 version offered 62.8 cu.ft. of cargo room to lead all but one model, and easily bested competitors like the Subaru Crosstrek and Honda HR-V, both of which trend some 12% smaller. The Seltos isn’t just spacious. It’s also exceedingly flexible, thanks to a foldable dual-level cargo board, plenty of handy storage cubbies, and Kia’s available AddGear accessory system with modular storage accessories.
Generous dimensions aside, it’s the Seltos’ tech-forward approach that really has us so excited about the new 2027 model. The 2026 Seltos was no slouch with its twin 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment display and digital gauge cluster, but the second-generation version ups the ante with a panoramic design that sees both screens grow to 12.3 inches. Kia’s infotainment system is always improving thanks to over-the-air (OTA) software updates, and will even include a new AI assistant powered by ChatGPT that can adjust various settings and features with a friendly, conversational tone. The infotainment system will also let you access the Kia Connect Store, which offers endless personalization options with custom graphics inspired by your favorite NBA team or Disney film. The new Seltos will also feature premium Harman Kardon and Bose audio systems, a customizable 64-color ambient lighting system, and Kia’s Digital Key 2.0, which sees your smartphone or smartwatch double as a new way to enter and activate the SUV.
There’s No Beating Kia’s Warranty
No mention of a Kia model is complete without noting the brand’s industry-leading warranty program and impressive reliability record. The South Korean automaker has long been known as one of the more dependable brands on the market, and underscores that reputation with an impressive haul of hardware. There are many ways to measure reliability, but J.D. Power’s Initial Quality Study (IQS) is generally considered one of the most authoritative metrics. The IQS logs the number of problems reported by drivers over the first 90 days of ownership and then ranks brands by their problems-per-100-vehicles (PP100) score. Kia routinely ranks in the top third and even earned the sixth spot in the 2025 study, with a PP100 of 181. That’s some 11 points above the current market average, which should instill drivers with plenty of confidence when they’re considering a Kia.
RepairPal also ranks Kia as one of the three most reliable options for lifetime repair and maintenance costs. The Seltos has certainly contributed to Kia’s impressive track record, earning consistent praise for its quality and reliability. The first-generation Seltos started off strong and only refined its reliability throughout the last five years, with the 2024 model earning a score of 87 and the 2025 and 2026 versions trailing just behind at 86. This sort of showing bodes well for the second-generation Seltos.
Statistics aside, it’s Kia’s industry-leading warranty that really speaks to the SUV’s low-maintenance appeal. Every Kia model is protected by a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile limited warranty, allowing drivers to hit the road without worrying about big-ticket repairs.
A Lot to Look Forward To
There are lots of exciting upgrades on the horizon as Kia prepares to unveil the 2027 Seltos, including the new hybrid powertrain, Telluride-inspired styling, a larger cabin, and an exciting arsenal of advanced infotainment tech. One thing that hasn’t changed is the SUV’s low starting price. While the brand has yet to release official numbers, Car and Driver reports that the subcompact will retail for about $27,000, making the Seltos one of the best values in the crossover class, especially when you consider the long list of premium features like fully reclining front seats, head-up display, and the latest version of Kia’s Highway Driving Assist technology. Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2) leverages the latest ADAS to provide drivers with a stress-free driving experience. From lane following assist and forward collision-avoidance assist to the SUV’s surround view monitor and parking collision-avoidance system, HDA2 includes all of the features you’ll need to up your confidence and provide you with some valuable peace of mind when you hit the highway. If you’re in the market for a subcompact SUV that’ll allow you to enjoy the latest features, style, and tech, save yourself some time and start with the Seltos.
