New 2027 Kia Seltos: $24,990 Price, 190 HP Turbo, AWD & New Hybrid
The 2027 Kia Seltos arrives with a bolder design, a $24,990 starting MSRP, a standard 147-hp 2.0-liter engine, an available 190-hp turbo, available torque-vectoring all-wheel drive and an all-new Seltos Hybrid expected in late 2026.
Kia is positioning the new Seltos as a more rugged-looking and more versatile compact SUV while keeping its starting price firmly in the affordable end of the U.S. market.
The biggest long-term change, however, may be the addition of the hybrid. For the first time, U.S. Seltos buyers will be able to choose between conventional gasoline power and an electrified 1.6-liter hybrid system.
| Starting MSRP | $24,990 before destination and handling |
| Base Engine | 2.0L MPI 4-cylinder |
| Base Power | 147 hp |
| Base Torque | 132 lb-ft |
| Available Turbo | 190 hp |
| Transmission | IVT on 2.0L models; turbo transmission varies by configuration |
| AWD | Available torque-vectoring AWD |
| Terrain Modes | Snow, Mud and Sand on supported AWD versions |
| Hybrid | New 1.6L hybrid powertrain |
| Hybrid AWD | Available |
| Hybrid Timing | Expected late 2026 |
What Is New for the 2027 Kia Seltos?
The 2027 Seltos gets a more substantial update than a routine model-year change.
Kia says the new SUV takes styling cues from the 2027 Telluride, using more squared-off proportions and available dark exterior accents for a more rugged appearance.
Key changes include:
- New exterior design
- More upright SUV styling
- Available blacked-out exterior accents
- 147-hp 2.0L gasoline engine
- Available 190-hp turbo engine
- Available torque-vectoring AWD
- Multi-terrain drive modes on supported AWD models
- New hybrid powertrain
- Available AWD for the hybrid
- Expanded U.S. trim choices
2027 Kia Seltos Price
Kia lists the 2027 Seltos at a starting MSRP of $24,990.
That figure excludes destination and handling, taxes, registration, options and dealer charges.
Individual vehicles in Kia's live inventory show higher total MSRPs once destination, trim level and equipment are included, so buyers should compare the actual window sticker rather than relying only on the advertised base price.
147-HP 2.0L Engine
Mainstream Seltos trims use a 2.0-liter MPI four-cylinder gasoline engine.
Kia's official specifications list output at 147 hp at 6,200 rpm and 132 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm.
The engine is paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission on applicable configurations.
This setup prioritizes everyday drivability and fuel economy rather than aggressive acceleration.
190-HP Turbo Seltos
Buyers wanting stronger performance can move to the available turbocharged configuration.
Kia confirms up to 190 horsepower in the turbocharged X-Line family.
For highway merging, passing and mountain driving, the turbo should feel noticeably stronger than the naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine.
147 HP vs 190 HP: Which Engine Should You Buy?
| Priority | Better Choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Lowest purchase price | 2.0L 147 hp | Available in lower-priced trims |
| City commuting | 2.0L 147 hp | Enough power for normal daily use |
| Highway passing | 190-hp turbo | More power and stronger acceleration |
| Mountain driving | 190-hp turbo | Extra power is more useful under load and elevation |
| Fuel-economy priority | 2.0L or Hybrid | Hybrid will be the version to watch once final EPA data arrives |
Available Torque-Vectoring AWD
The Seltos continues to distinguish itself from some value-focused compact crossovers by offering torque-vectoring all-wheel drive.
Kia also offers a 4WD Lock function on supported AWD configurations.
This can make the Seltos a stronger choice for buyers dealing with snow, steep roads or loose surfaces.
Snow, Mud and Sand Terrain Modes
Supported AWD configurations offer a multi-terrain drive-mode system with:
- Snow
- Mud
- Sand
These modes adjust vehicle behavior to suit lower-traction surfaces.
They do not turn the Seltos into a dedicated off-road SUV, but they give drivers more control than a basic front-wheel-drive crossover.
2027 Seltos Hybrid
The most important addition to the range is the new 2027 Kia Seltos Hybrid.
Kia confirms that it uses a refined 1.6-liter engine as part of its hybrid system.
The hybrid is expected to arrive in late 2026.
All-wheel drive will also be available, which could make the Seltos Hybrid particularly appealing in markets where buyers want both fuel efficiency and winter traction.
What We Still Do Not Know About the Hybrid
Kia has not yet published every U.S.-market hybrid specification.
- Final combined horsepower
- Battery capacity
- EPA city/highway/combined MPG
- Hybrid trim pricing
- Full trim availability
- Final acceleration figures
Gas or Hybrid: Which Seltos Makes More Sense?
Real-World Gasoline Configuration Examples
Kia's current U.S. inventory provides useful examples of how different 2027 gasoline configurations are rated.
| Example Configuration | Powertrain | Listed Fuel Economy |
|---|---|---|
| S / EX FWD examples | 2.0L + IVT | 28 city / 33 highway mpg |
| X-Line AWD example | 2.0L + AWD | 26 city / 30 highway mpg |
Fuel-economy ratings vary by trim, drivetrain, wheels and equipment. Always check the specific vehicle's EPA label.
More Rugged Exterior Design
Kia says the 2027 Seltos adopts design cues from the larger Telluride.
The result is a more upright, squared-off appearance compared with softer compact crossovers.
Available black exterior accents add a more aggressive visual treatment to higher trims.
X-Line Adds the Rugged Look
The X-Line family is aimed at buyers who want a stronger adventure-oriented appearance and AWD capability.
Depending on configuration, Kia's live inventory shows X-Line models with:
- Torque-vectoring AWD
- 4WD Lock
- Unique exterior treatment
- Two-tone paint availability on selected vehicles
- Upgraded interior materials
Interior and Everyday Practicality
Kia markets the new Seltos as having class-leading maximum cargo room behind the first row.
Rather than publishing an unsupported exact 2027 cargo number here, DriveSpecLab will update this section when Kia's final U.S. specification table provides the complete production dimensions.
The practical advantage of the Seltos remains its tall, boxier SUV shape, which generally allows better use of interior space than a lower coupe-like crossover.
Technology and Connectivity
Equipment varies by trim, but Kia continues to position Seltos as a technology-forward small SUV.
Available features across the family can include:
- Digital driver display
- Large infotainment touchscreen
- Smartphone connectivity
- Kia Connect services
- Wireless phone charging on supported trims
- Premium audio on higher configurations
- Smart Power Liftgate on supported models
Driver-Assistance Technology
Current 2027 inventory listings confirm several core driver-assistance systems, including:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Cyclist detection
- Junction-turning assistance on supported configurations
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Lane Following Assist
- Driver Attention Warning
- High Beam Assist
Higher trims and packages may add additional assistance systems.
2027 Kia Seltos Trim Strategy
Kia's U.S. inventory confirms multiple gasoline trims including LX, S, EX and X-Line configurations.
Exact equipment varies by drivetrain and package, so the smartest way to choose is by buyer priority rather than trim name alone.
| Buyer Type | Version to Watch | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Lowest-cost buyer | LX | Entry point into the Seltos lineup |
| Everyday value | S | Useful balance of price and equipment |
| Comfort-focused buyer | EX | More convenience and interior equipment |
| AWD / rugged styling | X-Line | Best fit for traction and adventure-oriented appearance |
| Performance buyer | 190-hp turbo configuration | Strongest gasoline performance |
| Fuel-economy buyer | Seltos Hybrid | Wait for final EPA and pricing data |
Which 2027 Kia Seltos Should You Buy?
2027 Kia Seltos vs Chevrolet Trailblazer
The Seltos and Chevrolet Trailblazer are natural rivals because both target buyers who want a small SUV with available AWD rather than a front-wheel-drive-only budget crossover.
| Area | 2027 Kia Seltos | 2027 Chevrolet Trailblazer |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $24,990 before destination | Final 2027 price pending |
| Base Power | 147 hp | 155 hp |
| Higher-Power Option | 190-hp turbo | No higher-output engine announced |
| AWD | Available | Available; standard on Z71 |
| Hybrid | Coming | Not announced |
| Adventure Version | X-Line | Z71 |
The Trailblazer Z71 offers more dedicated light-off-road hardware, while the Seltos counters with a stronger turbo option and upcoming hybrid.
Also read: 2027 Chevrolet Trailblazer Z71 Guide .
Seltos vs Trax: Which Chevrolet Alternative Fits Better?
The Chevrolet Trax is the more road-focused value option, while the Seltos offers available AWD and a broader powertrain strategy.
If winter traction matters, Seltos has an immediate advantage over the front-wheel-drive-only Trax.
If purchase price is the overriding priority, Trax remains worth comparing once final 2027 pricing is fully available.
Should You Buy the 2027 Seltos Now or Wait for the Hybrid?
That depends heavily on annual mileage.
Buy the gasoline Seltos now if:
- You need a vehicle immediately
- You drive relatively low annual mileage
- You want the 190-hp turbo
- You prefer proven conventional gasoline hardware
Consider waiting for the Hybrid if:
- You drive a lot of city miles
- Fuel economy is a major ownership-cost factor
- You want electrification without relying on charging
- You still want available AWD
Is the 2027 Seltos a Good Value?
A $24,990 starting MSRP keeps the Seltos competitive in one of America's most price-sensitive SUV segments.
Its strongest advantage is choice: buyers can move from a relatively inexpensive 2.0L model to AWD, a 190-hp turbo or eventually a hybrid without leaving the Seltos family.
That breadth should help it remain relevant even as buyer preferences shift between gasoline, hybrid and AWD vehicles.
What Still Needs Final Confirmation?
- Complete hybrid horsepower
- Hybrid EPA MPG
- Hybrid battery capacity
- Hybrid trim pricing
- Final complete cargo dimensions
- Full trim-by-trim feature matrix
- Real-world fuel economy
- Real-world acceleration for the turbo and hybrid
DriveSpecLab Take
The 2027 Kia Seltos looks stronger as a long-term ownership proposition because Kia is giving buyers more powertrain choice instead of betting on a single solution.
The $24,990 starting MSRP keeps the entry model accessible, while the 147-hp 2.0L engine remains adequate for buyers prioritizing value.
The available 190-hp turbo gives the Seltos a meaningful performance advantage over many inexpensive small SUVs.
Available torque-vectoring AWD and terrain modes also make it more versatile for buyers who regularly deal with snow or poor road conditions.
But the Hybrid could ultimately become the most important version. If Kia delivers competitive EPA fuel economy without pushing the price too far upward, it could become the smartest Seltos for commuters and high-mileage owners.
For now, the gasoline Seltos remains a compelling choice because of its combination of pricing, AWD availability and engine options—but buyers focused primarily on operating costs should wait for the final hybrid numbers before signing.
2027 Kia Seltos FAQ
How much does the 2027 Kia Seltos cost?
The 2027 Kia Seltos starts at $24,990 before destination and handling.
How much horsepower does the 2027 Seltos have?
The 2.0L engine produces 147 hp, while an available turbocharged version produces up to 190 hp.
Does the 2027 Kia Seltos have AWD?
Yes. Torque-vectoring all-wheel drive is available on selected configurations.
Does the Seltos have terrain modes?
Supported AWD versions offer Snow, Mud and Sand terrain modes.
Is there a 2027 Seltos Hybrid?
Yes. Kia has confirmed a new Seltos Hybrid with a 1.6L engine and available AWD, expected in late 2026.
What MPG will the Seltos Hybrid get?
Kia has not yet published the final U.S. EPA fuel-economy rating for the hybrid.
Which Seltos engine is better?
The 147-hp 2.0L is better for value-focused daily driving, while the 190-hp turbo is better for drivers prioritizing acceleration and highway performance.
Should I wait for the Seltos Hybrid?
High-mileage drivers and buyers focused on fuel economy should consider waiting until final hybrid MPG and pricing are available.
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Specifications and pricing reflect Kia America information available as of October 12, 2026. MSRP excludes destination and handling unless otherwise noted. Hybrid specifications remain incomplete and may change before retail launch.
