First Look for Ontario: The 2027 Kia Seltos Hits the Stage

Kia has pulled the wraps off the second-generation Seltos, and the changes run deeper than a typical refresh. This is a complete redesign - longer, wider, roomier, and packed with technology that was reserved for larger SUVs just a few years ago. If you've been watching the subcompact SUV segment, the 2027 Seltos is about to reset expectations.

The new Seltos grows in every dimension that matters. The wheelbase stretches 60 millimetres longer than the outgoing model, which translates to 25 millimetres more rear legroom and 25 millimetres more headroom. Cargo capacity climbs to 1,817 litres behind the first row - enough space for a full week's camping gear or a month's worth of grocery runs. The cabin feels more open, the greenhouse more upright, and the overall presence more confident. This is a vehicle designed to handle daily commutes and weekend adventures without compromise.

Kia's "Opposites United" design philosophy shapes the exterior - bold angles meet clean lines, and flush door handles give the Seltos a modern, aerodynamic profile. The boxy, upright stance delivers the utility buyers expect from an SUV, while the proportions stay nimble enough for tight city parking. New colours include Terrain Brown and Frost Blue, both of which emphasize the Seltos' outdoor-ready character.

Three Powertrains, Three Personalities

The 2027 Seltos offers three distinct powertrain options, each tuned for a different driving style. The base engine is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder paired with Kia's Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT). This setup is standard on the LX, EX, and EX Premium trims and delivers smooth, efficient power for daily driving.

If you want more urgency off the line, the turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder produces 190 hp and routes power through an 8-speed automatic transmission with manual control. This engine is exclusive to the X-Line and X-Line Limited trims, which also feature sportier styling cues - dark gun metal accents and 19-inch black alloy wheels. The X-Line Limited adds front Relaxation Seats, which recline for added comfort on long drives.

The third option is a first for the Seltos: a hybrid powertrain. The 1.6-litre four-cylinder hybrid pairs with a 6-speed dual clutch transmission and is available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. The all-wheel drive version uses Kia's new e-AWD system - the first time Kia has offered electric all-wheel drive on a hybrid SUV. This system provides on-demand traction without the weight and complexity of a traditional mechanical AWD setup. Official fuel economy figures for all three powertrains will be released closer to the on-sale date.

Nearly 30 Inches of Digital Display

The interior of the 2027 Seltos is where Kia's focus on upmarket content becomes clear. The dashboard features a standard 12.3-inch digital touchscreen display, and select trims add a 12.3-inch instrument display and a 5-inch climate control panel - nearly 30 inches of combined screen real estate. The system runs Kia's ccNC infotainment platform, which includes Over-the-Air update capability. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity is available across the lineup.

The cabin layout follows the same "Opposites United" philosophy as the exterior. The squared-off steering wheel, open centre console design, and clean lines create a modern, uncluttered environment. "Blades" extend from the dashboard into the front doors, wrapping the driver and front passenger in a visually cohesive space. The X-Line trims feature an exclusive monotone black interior with SynTex upholstery and mesh headrests, along with standard four-way lumbar support.

Multiple USB-C ports span both rows. The front-row ports are nestled between the centre console and the climate controls and include a media port and two charging ports. Rear-seat charging ports are integrated into the first-row seatbacks for easy access. The Seltos also features a two-step foldable luggage board on select models, which offers flexible storage solutions for gear of varying sizes.

Safety Technology That Doesn't Compromise

The 2027 Seltos includes a comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) as standard equipment. Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning is new to the Seltos and helps detect cross-traffic at intersections. Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, Parking Distance Warning for Forward and Reverse, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Driver Attention Warning, High-Beam Assist, and Intelligent Speed-Limit Assist are all standard.

Select trims add a 3D Surround-View Monitor and Kia's Blind-Spot View Monitor, which displays a video feed of the left or right blind spot area on the digital display when the corresponding turn signal is activated. These features are typically found in more expensive segments, but Kia has made them available on a subcompact SUV.

Arriving This Summer (Hybrid Later)

The 2027 Kia Seltos with the 2.0-litre and 1.6-litre turbocharged engines is expected to arrive in Canada this summer. The hybrid variant will follow by the end of the year. Pricing, specific trim details, and fuel economy estimates will be announced closer to the on-sale date.

The Seltos has been one of Kia's top-selling models in Canada since it launched, and this redesign positions it to hold that spot. The combination of increased space, advanced technology, and multiple powertrain options gives buyers flexibility to choose the version that fits their needs - whether that's efficient daily commuting, spirited weekend driving, or hybrid efficiency with all-wheel drive capability.

If you're in the market for a subcompact SUV that delivers more than the segment typically offers, the 2027 Seltos is worth a closer look. Visit Bessada Kia in Pickering to learn more about the new Seltos and to be notified when it arrives.

To learn more about the 2027 Kia Seltos, visit Kia.ca