2027 Kia Seltos

Car Reviews

2027 Kia Seltos: Redesign, Price and Features

OVERVIEW

The 2027 Kia Seltos arrives with a complete redesign, more interior space, updated technology, and a starting MSRP of $24,990. Kia has also expanded the trim lineup and confirmed plans for a hybrid version, giving shoppers more reasons to consider its small SUV.

The biggest changes aren't under the hood. The two gasoline engines produce the same horsepower as the outgoing model. Instead, Kia has focused on making the Seltos roomier, improving its standard equipment and giving it a more substantial appearance.

Those improvements come at a higher price. AutoFinder's October 2026 marketplace analysis found that comparable 2027 S and EX trims were advertised for roughly $1,300 to $2,600 more than their 2026 counterparts.

So, is the redesigned Seltos worth the additional cost? Here's what has changed, what the different trims offer, and how to decide which model year makes more sense for your budget.

What's New for the 2027 Kia Seltos?

The 2027 Seltos begins the SUV's second generation. This is a complete redesign rather than a minor update to the headlights or interior.

Kia has made the vehicle longer and wider, increased its wheelbase, and redesigned the cabin. A larger standard touchscreen is one of the most noticeable improvements, particularly for shoppers considering the base LX.

The exterior has a more upright appearance, with sharper body lines and styling influenced by Kia's larger SUVs.

The trim lineup also changes. The outgoing SX is replaced by the X-Line SX, while a new X-Line S adds another AWD configuration.

The most important updates include:

  • Larger exterior dimensions and additional cargo space

  • A standard 12.3-inch touchscreen

  • Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

  • Updated interior styling and available comfort features

  • Expanded available driver assistance technology

  • New X-Line trim configurations

  • A hybrid version planned for the 2027 model year

For shoppers who liked the previous Seltos but wanted more space or a more modern interior, the redesign addresses several practical concerns.

2027 Kia Seltos

2026 vs. 2027 Kia Seltos: What Changed?

The 2027 Seltos is larger and better equipped in several areas, although its gasoline engines retain the same horsepower ratings.

Specification2026 Kia Seltos2027 Kia Seltos
Starting MSRP$23,790$24,990
Overall length172.6 inches174.4 inches
Overall width70.9 inches72.0 inches
Wheelbase103.5 inches105.9 inches
Cargo space behind rear seats26.6 cu. ft.27.8 cu. ft.
Maximum cargo capacity62.8 cu. ft.64.2 cu. ft.
Standard engine147 hp147 hp
Available turbo engine190 hp190 hp
Base touchscreen8 inches12.3 inches

Source: Kia's official U.S. specifications and equipment documents for both model years. MSRP excludes destination and other applicable charges.

The wheelbase increases by 2.4 inches, while cargo space behind the rear seats grows by 1.2 cubic feet.

Those changes are useful, but they don't transform the Seltos into a substantially larger SUV. It remains a small crossover intended for everyday transportation.

The technology improvements may be more noticeable to drivers than the extra cargo space. The standard touchscreen grows from 8 inches to 12.3 inches, making the redesigned cabin feel considerably more modern.

However, shoppers hoping for stronger gasoline engine performance won't find an increase in horsepower.

That makes the 2027 Seltos primarily an upgrade in space, styling, and equipment.

How Much Does the 2027 Kia Seltos Cost?

The 2027 Kia Seltos starts at $24,990 MSRP for the LX with Front Wheel Drive.

Kia offers eight gasoline configurations, with prices ranging from $24,990 to $32,790 before destination charges.

2027 Kia Seltos TrimDrivetrainStarting MSRP
LXFWD$24,990
SFWD$26,390
LXAWD$26,690
SAWD$28,090
EXFWD$28,390
X-Line SAWD$28,990
EXAWD$30,090
X-Line SXAWD$32,790

Prices are manufacturer suggested retail prices and exclude destination, taxes, registration, optional equipment, and other applicable fees.

The least expensive AWD version is the LX AWD at $26,690. That's an important option for shoppers who prioritize traction but don't need the features of a more expensive trim.

The X-Line SX is the most expensive gasoline configuration. It includes the stronger turbocharged engine, AWD, and additional equipment.

How Much More Does the 2027 Seltos Cost Than the 2026 Model?

The starting MSRP increases by $1,200, from $23,790 for the 2026 LX FWD to $24,990 for the 2027 LX FWD.

Other comparable trims also become more expensive.

The S FWD increases by $900, while the EX FWD rises by $1,900.

These differences matter because shoppers may find remaining 2026 inventory at lower advertised prices.

However, MSRP isn't the same as the amount you'll pay at a dealership. Optional equipment, dealer pricing, financing terms, and applicable fees can change the final cost.

For a more useful comparison, request an itemized out-the-door quote for each vehicle.

Which 2027 Kia Seltos Trim Is the Best Value?

For many shoppers, the S FWD is a sensible place to start.

It costs $26,390 before destination, making it more affordable than the EX and X-Line configurations while providing additional equipment over the base LX.

The LX is worth considering if keeping the purchase price low is your priority. It still includes the redesigned cabin and larger standard touchscreen.

The EX adds comfort features, including heated front seats, which may justify its higher price for drivers who regularly encounter cold weather.

For shoppers who want AWD without moving into a higher trim, the LX AWD starts at $26,690.

The X-Line S combines AWD with distinctive styling and additional equipment, while the X-Line SX adds the turbocharged engine.

Our Recommendation

The S FWD offers a useful balance of price and equipment for everyday driving.

The EX is worth comparing if comfort features are important, while the LX AWD may be the better choice for shoppers who prioritize AWD over additional technology.

If stronger acceleration matters, the X-Line SX is the version to test drive.

There isn't one trim that makes sense for everyone. The best value depends on which features you'll actually use and how much more the dealership is asking for them.

Is the 2027 Kia Seltos Bigger Than the 2026 Model?

Yes. The redesigned Seltos is 1.8 inches longer and 1.1 inches wider, with a wheelbase that's 2.4 inches longer.

Cargo capacity also increases.

The 2027 model offers 27.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, compared with 26.6 cubic feet in the outgoing model.

With the rear seats folded, maximum cargo capacity grows from 62.8 to 64.2 cubic feet.

For a small SUV, even modest improvements can make daily life easier.

The additional room may help when carrying groceries, luggage, sports equipment, or a stroller.

Still, cargo measurements don't tell you everything about how useful a vehicle will be.

If you regularly travel with children, check how much front passenger space remains with a rear-facing child seat installed.

If you carry larger items, bring them to the dealership and make sure they fit.

The redesigned Seltos offers more room on paper, but the best way to judge the improvement is to compare the actual vehicles.

What Interior and Technology Features Does the 2027 Kia Seltos Have?

The redesigned interior is one of the strongest reasons to consider the 2027 model.

Every gasoline trim includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

That gives even the least expensive Seltos a more modern infotainment setup than the outgoing base model.

Kia has also redesigned the dashboard and offers additional comfort and convenience features depending on trim.

Available equipment includes heated and ventilated front seats, upgraded digital displays, a panoramic sunroof, and additional camera-based driver assistance technology.

However, some of the most desirable features require higher trims or optional packages.

For example, heated front seats are standard on the EX, X-Line S and X-Line SX, while ventilated front seats are available through the X-Line SX Prestige Package.

That distinction matters when comparing advertised vehicles.

Two Seltos models with the same trim name may have different equipment if one includes an optional package.

Before choosing a vehicle, review its actual window sticker rather than relying only on the trim description.

2027 Kia Seltos interior
2027 Kia Seltos interior

What Engines Are Available in the 2027 Kia Seltos?

The redesigned Seltos continues with two gasoline engines.

EngineHorsepowerTorqueTransmission
2.0 liter four cylinder147 hp132 lb. ft.Intelligent Variable Transmission
1.6 liter turbocharged four cylinder190 hp195 lb. ft.Eight speed automatic

The standard 2.0-liter engine is available in the LX, S, EX, and X-Line S configurations.

It is intended for everyday driving rather than maximum acceleration.

For commuters and drivers who primarily travel around town, it may provide sufficient performance.

The X-Line SX uses the more powerful 1.6-liter turbocharged engine.

Its additional horsepower and torque may be appealing when merging onto highways, climbing hills or carrying passengers.

However, the turbocharged engine comes with a higher purchase price.

Both engines retain the same horsepower ratings as their 2026 counterparts, so shoppers shouldn't expect the redesign alone to deliver stronger acceleration.

What Is the 2027 Kia Seltos MPG?

Fuel economy depends on the engine and drivetrain.

Kia lists the 2027 Seltos 2.0 liter FWD at 30 MPG combined, while the AWD version is rated at 28 MPG combined.

The turbocharged X-Line SX is listed at 26 MPG combined.

For comparison, the 2026 Seltos 2.0 liter FWD was rated at 31 MPG combined, while the AWD version was rated at 29 MPG combined.

The outgoing turbocharged SX AWD was rated at 25 MPG combined.

That means the redesigned standard engine configurations lose 1 MPG combined, while the turbocharged version gains 1 MPG combined.

These are relatively small differences, but they show why it's worth checking specifications rather than assuming a redesign always improves fuel economy.

Will the 2027 Kia Seltos Have a Hybrid?

Yes. Kia has confirmed plans for a hybrid version of the redesigned Seltos.

The hybrid could be particularly appealing to shoppers who want the practicality of a small SUV with lower fuel consumption.

However, the official gasoline pricing and specification documents used for this article do not establish final U.S. hybrid pricing, EPA fuel economy estimates or the complete hybrid trim lineup.

Those details should be confirmed when Kia releases them.

If you drive substantial mileage each year, waiting for the hybrid could be worthwhile.

If you need a vehicle immediately or drive relatively few miles, the gasoline model may make more financial sense.

The decision will depend on the hybrid's eventual price premium and how much money it can save on fuel.

Does the 2027 Kia Seltos Have AWD?

Yes. AWD is available on the LX, S, and EX and standard on the X-Line S and X-Line SX.

The AWD configurations also use a multi-link rear suspension, while FWD versions use a coupled torsion beam rear suspension.

The X-Line SX includes additional terrain settings for snow, mud, and sand.

For drivers who regularly encounter winter weather, AWD may be worth considering.

However, AWD doesn't replace appropriate tires or careful driving.

If you live in an area with mild weather and mostly drive on paved roads, FWD may be sufficient and can help keep the purchase price lower.

What Safety Features Does the 2027 Kia Seltos Have?

The redesigned Seltos offers a range of standard and available driver assistance features.

Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go is standard across the gasoline lineup.

Blind Spot Collision Avoidance is standard on the S, EX, and X-Line trims, while additional camera and parking assistance technology is available on higher configurations.

The X-Line SX Prestige Package adds features such as a Surround View Monitor and Blind Spot View Monitor.

These systems can make driving in traffic and maneuvering through crowded parking lots easier.

However, driver assistance equipment shouldn't be confused with independent crash test performance.

Shoppers should review current IIHS and NHTSA ratings for the redesigned model rather than relying on results from the previous generation.

What Does AutoFinder Inventory Data Show About 2027 Kia Seltos Prices?

AutoFinder analyzed new 2026 and 2027 Kia Seltos listings in its dealer feed on October 19, 2026, to see how advertised prices compare between the two model years.

After excluding stale listings and invalid prices, the analysis included 13,774 vehicles.

Of those, 13,013 were 2027 models, and only 761 were 2026 models.

That means the redesigned Seltos accounted for approximately 94.5% of the valid priced listings in the snapshot.

For shoppers interested in the outgoing model, the smaller inventory means fewer opportunities to find a specific trim, color, or drivetrain.

How Much Cheaper Is a 2026 Kia Seltos?

The median advertised price for the 2026 Seltos was $29,160, compared with $31,130 for the 2027 model.

That's a difference of $1,970.

However, the overall medians aren't a direct comparison of identical vehicles. The 2027 lineup includes new X-Line configurations, and the two model years have different equipment and dimensions.

Looking at trims with the same names provides a more useful comparison.

Trim2026 Median Advertised Price2027 Median Advertised PriceDifference
S FWD$27,122$28,530$1,408
S AWD$28,807$30,115$1,308
EX FWD$28,618$31,180$2,562
EX AWD$30,819$32,836$2,017

Source: AutoFinder marketplace snapshot, October 19, 2026. Prices are advertised amounts, not completed sale prices. Same-name trims are not identical vehicles because the 2027 Seltos is a new generation.

Across these four configurations, the 2026 Seltos was advertised for approximately $1,300 to $2,600 less.

The biggest difference appeared in the EX FWD, where the 2027 median was $2,562 higher.

But that doesn't necessarily mean dealerships are offering unusually large discounts on the outgoing model.

Kia also increased the official starting MSRP for these trims.

Much of the advertised price difference reflects that higher manufacturer pricing.

Are Dealerships Discounting the 2026 Kia Seltos?

Some dealerships are advertising remaining 2026 Seltos models below their official base MSRP.

In AutoFinder's snapshot, 7.5% of valid 2026 listings were priced below the manufacturer's base MSRP for their trim and drivetrain.

For 2027 models, the figure was 0.7%.

These percentages are conservative because the comparison uses base MSRP rather than the vehicle's full window sticker price.

Optional equipment and destination charges may increase the actual sticker price, so more vehicles could be advertised below their individual sticker prices.

The analysis also found that approximately 13% of the remaining 2026 listings showed more than 500 miles.

Some of these vehicles may have been used as demonstration or loaner units while still being classified as new.

That doesn't automatically make them poor purchases, but shoppers should ask about prior use, mileage, warranty coverage and vehicle condition.

Is Remaining 2026 Inventory Worth Considering?

Yes, particularly if purchase price is your biggest priority.

The AutoFinder data suggests that shoppers can find meaningful advertised price differences between the two model years.

However, the 2026 Seltos is becoming less common in the dealer feed.

That means finding a specific configuration may be more difficult than finding a 2027 model.

The smartest approach is to compare actual vehicles rather than assuming every remaining 2026 Seltos is a bargain.

A discounted 2026 EX may be attractive if it already includes the features you want.

But if the price difference is relatively small, the redesigned 2027 model's additional space and updated technology may be worth paying for.

About the data: AutoFinder analyzed new Kia Seltos listings active in its dealer feed on October 19, 2026. Listings were considered active when updated within the previous 30 days. Duplicate VINs, stale listings, and invalid prices were excluded. Results reflect advertised prices at the snapshot timestamp, not confirmed dealership availability or final transaction prices.

2027 Kia Seltos Pros and Cons

Pros

  • More cargo space
  • Standard 12.3 inch touchscreen
  • Wireless smartphone connectivity
  • Available AWD
  • Updated cabin

Cons

  • Higher MSRP
  • Unchanged gasoline horsepower
  • Lower standard engine MPG
  • Turbo limited to X-Line SX
  • Hybrid pricing unconfirmed

Should You Buy the 2026 or 2027 Kia Seltos?

The 2027 Seltos is the better choice for shoppers who value a redesigned interior, updated technology, and additional space.

The larger standard touchscreen is particularly appealing, and the increased cargo capacity makes the SUV more practical.

However, the 2026 Seltos remains worth considering.

Its gasoline engines produce the same horsepower, and AutoFinder's marketplace analysis shows that comparable S and EX trims were advertised for less than their redesigned counterparts.

The decision depends on how much you're actually saving.

If a remaining 2026 model is several thousand dollars less and includes the equipment you want, it could be a smart purchase.

If the difference is relatively small, paying more for the redesigned 2027 model may make sense, particularly if you plan to keep it for several years.

Ask dealerships for itemized out-the-door quotes and compare financing terms before making a decision.

Is the 2027 Kia Seltos Worth Buying?

The redesigned 2027 Kia Seltos is a meaningful improvement over the outgoing model.

It offers more cargo space, a more modern cabin, a larger standard touchscreen and additional trim choices.

For commuters, couples and small families, it provides useful SUV practicality without requiring the size or purchase price of a larger vehicle.

The S FWD is a strong starting point for shoppers who want a balance of features and affordability.

The LX AWD is worth considering if traction matters more than additional equipment, while the X-Line SX is the choice for drivers who want the stronger turbocharged engine.

However, the redesign doesn't make the 2026 Seltos obsolete.

AutoFinder's inventory data shows that remaining 2026 models can offer a meaningful advertised price advantage, even if much of that difference comes from lower original MSRPs.

If you're deciding between the two, compare the actual selling prices, equipment and condition of the vehicles available to you.

The 2027 Seltos is the more modern SUV. Whether it's the better purchase depends on how much extra you're being asked to pay.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The 2027 Kia Seltos starts at $24,990 MSRP for the LX with Front Wheel Drive. The gasoline lineup reaches $32,790 for the X-Line SX AWD. These prices exclude destination, taxes, registration, and other applicable charges. The final purchase price depends on the trim, optional equipment, and dealership offer.

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Sources

Official Kia pricing: https://www.kiamedia.com/us/en/models/seltos/2027/pricing and https://www.kiamedia.com/us/en/models/seltos/2026/pricing . Kia 2027 overview: https://www.kiamedia.com/us/en/models/seltos/2027 . AutoFinder Vehicle Graph API dealer inventory snapshot: October 19, 2026, 18:55:23 to 18:55:30 UTC; New Kia Seltos 2026 and 2027; valid priced listings 761 and 13,013.

The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and may change over time. Vehicle pricing, availability, specifications, incentives, financing terms, interest rates, and other details may vary by vehicle, dealer, lender, location, and individual circumstances. AutoFinder does not guarantee the accuracy or availability of information provided by third parties. Always confirm current vehicle details, pricing, terms, and eligibility directly with the participating dealer or appropriate provider before making a purchase or financial decision.