KIA Motors America Inc.

07/14/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 07/14/2026 09:33

THE ALL-NEW 2027 KIA SELTOS TAKES SMALL SUV EXPECTATIONS HIGHER

  • Telluride-inspired styling: Chiseled design, available auto-flush door handles, modern, premium interior
  • Larger, wider, and roomier than previous generation with best-in-class passenger room1 and class-leading max cargo room behind first row2
  • Multiple powertrain options: Choice of 2.0-liter normally aspirated, 1.6-liter turbocharged and new HEV make Seltos the only vehicle in its segment with three powertrain options
  • Next generation technology: Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) with over-the-air update capability3 and available Entertainment and Data Services4 with YouTube, Disney+ and Netflix5 streaming
  • Big SUV Capability: Boxy, upright profile, available Multi-terrain AWD6 mode, and up to 8.1 inches of available ground clearance
  • Standard dual 12.3-inch screen displays and an available 5-inch display for climate control; intuitive touch and manual controls
  • Big on features: Available Panoramic sunroof, Surround View Monitor7 and Blind Spot View Monitor8
  • Expanded ADAS9: Standard Hands-On Detection, Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning, Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go10, Front-and-rear Parking Distance Warning
  • The 2027 Seltos ICE is on-sale now, with Seltos HEV slated to go on sale later this year


IRVINE, Calif., July 14, 2026
- Surrounded by coastal highways, canyon routes and destination-worthy drives that define Southern California, the all-new 2027 Kia Seltos made its national press debut in Newport Beach today. Designed for drivers whose days can begin with a commute and end with an adventure, the next-generation Seltos delivers enhanced capability, elevated comfort and intuitive technology in a confident, right-sized SUV package.

Larger than its predecessor, the 2027 Seltos brings in new features that elevate the small SUV segment, such as flush door handles, an available panoramic sunroof, available Surround View Monitor7, and an available up to nearly 30 inches of total combined screens11 with Kia's latest ccNC infotainment technology, including Over-the-Air updates3. These features, as well as the available memory power seats, Multi-Mode AWD6, and Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning, have all trickled down from Kia's Telluride flagship SUV. In addition to carrying over the normally aspirated 2.0-liter and turbocharged 1.6-liter engines, the 2027 Seltos offers a new hybrid powertrain that combines performance and hybrid efficiency, including a Kia first electric-AWD (e-AWD)6 on a Hybrid SUV. More information on the HEV will be shared closer to the vehicle's planned on-sale date later this year.

The 2.0-liter engine will be available in LX, S, X-Line S, and EX trims, with pricing starting at $24,990 MSRP11 for the LX and up to $30,090 MSRP12 for the EX. The turbocharged 1.6-liter engine will be offered exclusively in the X-Line SX trim, starting at $32,790 MSRP11.

Exterior Design: The Authentic Modern SUV

The new Seltos takes styling cues from the flagship Telluride SUV to carve out its own legacy as a small SUV that embodies a dynamic and energetic persona. Amber daytime running lights frame the front fascia, while bold angles and clean lines combine with flush door handles to deliver a strong distinctive presence. At its core, the 2027 Seltos is designed for versatility. It's longer, wider, and boasts a wheelbase that's 2.4 inches greater than its predecessor.

Standard wheels are 16-inch alloys, and the Seltos X-Line S comes with larger 18-inch alloy wheels, with all-black 19-inch wheels on the X-Line SX and X-Line EX HEV. The X-Line trim also features unique bumpers and side sills with Piano Black trim and dark gun metal accents. New colors include Terrain Brown, Frost Blue and Snow White Pearl with a distinctive black roof. Ground clearance has increased from 7.5 inches to an available 8.1 inches.

Interior Design: Functionally Sophisticated

The larger exterior dimensions of the new 2027 Seltos result in a more spacious cabin while the upright greenhouse allows for exceptional outward visibility. Inside, the interior features a wide horizontal layout, creating a clean, spacious feel. A squared-off steering wheel, open center console design, and clean lines visually connect the Seltos to the Telluride. The interior is modern simplicity meets technology integration, highlighted by an available nearly 30-inch total combined panoramic display13 that combines the infotainment system and digital cluster into a single panel.

Drawing inspiration from the Telluride and EV9, the Seltos HEV is available with a stalk-mounted shifter and push-button start. This is an ergonomic shift controller that moves right to where your hand naturally rests at the steering wheel. In doing so, the center console is left open, with plenty of space for water bottles, phones, and other small items.

In addition to its striking exterior, the X-Line comes with an exclusive monotone black interior with SynTex upholstery and the Telluride's uniquely styled mesh headrests which blend bold design and enhanced comfort. The X-Line seats also boast standard four-way lumbar support and the X-Line Prestige Package includes front driver Relaxation Seat.

The longer wheelbase and increased overall length create a more spacious cabin, delivering best-in-class passenger volume of 103.5 cu-ft.1 Headroom, hip room, and shoulder room have also increased, along with a class-leading 39 inches of second-row legroom14, providing greater comfort for all passengers.

Cargo capacity has also improved, with a class-leading 64.2 cu-ft. maximum cargo space behind the first row2 and best-in-class total interior volume of 131.3 cu-ft.15 The new Seltos also features a foldable luggage board and new flexible Kia Add Gear attachment points that offer drivers more storage solutions for their next adventure.

Tech Suite: Functionally Connected

The all-new Seltos has thoughtful technology designed for daily life, highlighted by the digital dash display. It includes a standard 12.3-inch digital touchscreen display and is available with a 12.3-inch instrument display and 5-inch climate display panel. The ccNC16 setup features over-the-air3 update capability17. Wireless Apple CarPlay18 and Android Auto19 are standard across all trims.

The available Kia AI assistant20 allows for a more natural conversation, and can be initiated simply by saying, "Hey, Kia…". Kia Connect21 allows consumers to use their compatible smartphones to send remote commands such as lock, unlock, cool, heat and start the vehicle22.

The 2027 Seltos is available with Entertainment and Data Services23, which can support streaming for Disney+, Netflix, and YouTube on certain trims. There are also available display themes for some of Disney's© most iconic brands, which will be introduced throughout 2026. Display themes are also available for all 30 NBA teams, as well as themes to celebrate Kia's sponsorship of the FIFA World Cup 2026 ™24. Available Kia myQ Connected Garage offers convenient garage access that lets you remotely manage and control your garage door through your Kia touchscreen display25. Experience all the new ways to stay connected and entertained with these upcoming features and more, all available in the Kia Connect Store.

To help devices stay charged, the cabin features a total of five standard USB-C ports. The front-row ports are nestled between the center console and the climate controls and include a media port and two charging ports. The rear-seat charging ports are integrated into the first-row seatbacks for easy access.

Seltos Powertrains: Three Ways to Adventure

The Seltos is the only CUV in the segment to offer three powertrain options starting with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with Kia's Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT). For those seeking lively pickup, the turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine develops 190 horsepower with standard advanced Multi-Mode AWD system. This engine routes power through an 8-speed automatic transmission with manual control. The 2.0L powertrain is offered with front-wheel drive or an available advanced Multi-Mode AWD system1. Depending on trim, 8.1 inches of ground clearance, the Seltos bolsters its capability within the segment.

Rounding out the lineup is a hybrid powertrain, which is a first for the Seltos. An advanced 1.6-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine is paired with a 6-speed dual clutch transmission designed to enhance both performance and efficiency. Front-wheel drive HEV improves driving efficiency while available e-AWD1, Kia first on a HEV SUV, provides more power with on-demand all-wheel drive capability to provide a more rewarding driving experience. More information on the Seltos HEV will become available later this year. Official fuel economy figures for these versatile powertrains will be available closer to their respective on-sale dates.

Seltos ADAS: Elevated Peace of Mind

The all-new 2027 Seltos comes with a comprehensive list of standard and available Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)1 bringing features typically found in more upscale SUVs. This includes new-to-Seltos features such as standard Forward Collision Avoidance (FCA) Assist with Junction Turning, standard Front and Reverse Parking Distance Warning, and newly available Side Parking Distance Warning with Reverse Parking Collision Avoidance. The Seltos now offers an optional 360° Surround-View Monitor, as well as Kia's Blind-Spot View Monitor8, which presents a video feed display of the left or right blind spot area on the digital display when the corresponding turn-signal is activated. This Blind Spot View Monitor and 360° Surround-View Monitor are optional on the X-Line trim.

The list of standard ADAS features includes Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Driver Attention Warning with Leading Vehicle Departure Alert, High-Beam Assist, Intelligent Speed-Limit Warning, and Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with pedestrian and cyclist detection. It also comes standard with Lane Following Assist 2. Available ADAS features include Intelligent Speed-Limit Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Avoidance and Safe Exit Warning[26], which is designed to provide an alert to occupants if it detects another vehicle approaching as they are exiting the vehicle.

Seltos Availability

The all-new 2027 Kia Seltos 2.0L and 1.6T are on-sale now, with the HEV expected to arrive later this year.

Kia America - about us

Headquartered in Irvine, California, Kia America continues to top automotive quality surveys. Kia is recognized as one of the TIME World's Most Sustainable Companies of 2026. Kia serves as the "Official Automotive Partner" of the NBA and WNBA and offers a range of gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric vehicles sold through a network of nearly 800 dealers in the U.S., including several SUVs proudly assembled in America*.

For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com. To receive custom email notifications for press releases the moment they are published, subscribe at www.kiamedia.com/us/en/newsalert

* The 2026 and 2027 all-electric EV6 and EV9 all-electric three-row SUV, Sportage (excluding PHEV model), Sorento (excludes HEV and PHEV models), and Telluride are assembled in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts.

# # #


1 Best-in-class passenger room: Comparison based on publicly available data regarding passenger volume in 2026 and 2027 Entry CUVs as of April 2026. Entry CUV class as defined by Kia segmentation.

2 Class-leading max cargo room: Comparison based on publicly available data regarding cargo room behind 1st row (w/ rear seats folded) in 2026 and 2027 Entry CUVs as of April 2026. Entry CUV class as defined by Kia segmentation.

3 Over-the-Air features and updates may require an additional cost and may vary by model, model year, and trim level. Features, specifications, and fees are subject to change. Kia Connect subscription is required and Kia Connect terms and conditions apply.

4 Kia Connect subscription required. Use of the feature is subject to the Kia Connect Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. May be currently unavailable for vehicles purchased or sold in Massachusetts that are not eligible for Kia Connect. Kia does not make any warranties about the accuracy of the information provided. Distracted driving can result in a loss of vehicle control. When operating a vehicle, never use a vehicle system that takes your focus away from safe vehicle operation.

5 YouTube is a trademark of Google LLC. Netflix is a trademark of Netflix Inc.

6 No system, no matter how advanced, can compensate for all driver error and/or driving conditions. Always drive safely.

7 When engaged, Surround View Monitor is not a substitute for safe driving, and may not display all objects around vehicle. Always drive safely and use caution.

8 When engaged, Blind-Spot View Monitor is not a substitute for safe driving and may not display all objects around vehicle. Always drive safely and use caution.

9 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems are not substitutes for safe driving, and may not detect all objects around the vehicle. Always drive safely and use caution.

10 When engaged, Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go is not a substitute for safe driving and cruise-control procedures. This is not an auto-pilot feature. Always drive safely and use caution. The Smart Cruise Control system may not detect every object in front of the vehicle.

11 Comprised of a 12.3-in. instrument display, 12.3-in. touchscreen infotainment display, and 5-in. climate display.

12 MSRP excludes destination and handling, taxes, title, license fees, options and retailer charges. Actual prices set by retailer and may vary.

13 Comprised of a 12.3-in. instrument display, 12.3-in. touchscreen infotainment display, and 5-in. climate display

14 Class-leading 2nd-row legroom: Comparison based on publicly available data regarding 2nd row legroom in 2026 and 2027 Entry CUVs as of April 2026. Entry CUV class as defined by Kia segmentation.

15 Best-in-class interior volume: Comparison based on publicly available data regarding interior volume in 2026 and 2027 Entry CUVs as of April 2026. Entry CUV class as defined by Kia segmentation.

16 Certain Digital Features & Services (DFS) functionalities vary by Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) configuration. Vehicles equipped with ccNC Lite may not support all DFS features.

17 Part of CCnC with Navigation in X- Line SX with Prestige Package trims.

18 Apple CarPlay runs on smartphone cellular data service. Normal data rates apply. Apple and CarPlay are trademarks of Apple, Inc.

19 Android Auto™: Vehicle user interface is a product of Google, and its terms and privacy statements apply. Requires the Android Auto app on Google Play and an Android-compatible smartphone running Android™ 5.0 Lollipop or higher. Data plan rates apply. Android Auto is a trademark of Google LLC.

20 Kia Connect subscription required. Kia does not make any warranties about the accuracy of the information provided. Distracted driving can result in a loss of vehicle control. When operating a vehicle, never use a vehicle system that takes your focus away from safe vehicle operation

21 Kia Connect subscription required. Use of the feature is subject to the Kia Connect Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. May be currently unavailable for vehicles purchased or sold in Massachusetts that are not eligible for Kia Connect. Kia does not make any warranties about the accuracy of the information provided. Distracted driving can result in a loss of vehicle control. When operating a vehicle, never use a vehicle system that takes your focus away from safe vehicle operation. Purchase/lease of a 2026 Kia with Kia Connect includes a complimentary 3-year subscription to the Kia Connect Ultimate package, starting from new vehicle retail sale/lease date as recorded by the dealer. Use of Kia Connect is subject to agreement to the Kia Connect Privacy Policy (available at https://owners.kia.com/us/en/privacy-policy.html) and Terms of Service (available at https://owners.kia.com/us/en/terms-of-service.html). Kia Connect may currently be unavailable for some Model Year 2022 and newer vehicles sold or purchased in Massachusetts. Kia Connect features may vary by model, model year, and trim level. Features, specifications, and fees are subject to change.

22 Do not use remote climate control or remote start if vehicle is in an enclosed area (e.g., closed garage) or a partially enclosed area without ventilation. Close all doors leading from adjacent living areas to the vehicle area before executing a remote climate control or remote start command. Remote feature support varies by model, model year and trim.

23 Additional subscriptions may be required for streaming services. Vehicle must be parked for video streaming and gaming features.

24 You can download two (2) free FIFA World Cup 2026™ Display Themes during the limited-time offer. These two FIFA displays will no longer be available to download or use after Aug 31, 2026. Once you've downloaded the free FIFA World Cup 2026™ Display Theme(s), there are no cancelations. Display Themes availability and features may vary by model, model year, and trim level.

For vehicles equipped with the 4" analog instrument cluster, the Display Theme will only be limited to the infotainment screen.

Display Themes are available on certain models that have the latest ccNC (Connected Car Navigation Cockpit) based infotainment system. An active Kia Connect subscription is required to utilize Display Themes. Without an active Kia Connect subscription, Display Themes will not be operational. Once purchased, Display Themes are limited to use on the specific vehicle tied to purchase and cannot be transferred to other vehicles. Once a Display Theme is purchased, certain welcome/goodbye sounds may be added and may vary by model, model year.

25 Kia myQ Connected Garage is available only on vehicles with a ccNC head unit. Kia Connect and myQ accounts are required to activate your myQ-enabled garage door opener. This feature depends on various other factors in the vehicle such as LTE network coverage to transmit data. Coverage not available everywhere. Certain services may collect location information and data usage applies. Kia Connect terms and conditions apply. Kia myQ Connected Garage is subject to a functioning link between Kia Connect and myQ accounts, as well as myQ systems availability. Speed of the network communication is dependent on the systems and LTE network coverage.

26 When engaged, Safe Exit Assist is not a substitute for one's attention and may not detect all objects surrounding the vehicle. Always pay attention to traffic and to the area around your vehicle when exiting the vehicle.

Press Release Information Accuracy Disclaimer
Information posted in press releases on the Kia Media website was accurate at the time of posting but may be superseded by subsequent releases or other information.
See Full Release
KIA Motors America Inc. published this content on July 14, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on July 14, 2026 at 15:33 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]