A New SUV Era Begins: Exploring the 2027 Kia Seltos in Ontario

Kia built its reputation on vehicles that punch above their weight - offering features and refinement you'd expect from larger, pricier SUVs. The 2027 Seltos takes that philosophy further with a complete redesign. Larger dimensions, a new hybrid powertrain, and technology borrowed from Kia's flagship models make this the most capable Seltos yet.

The 2027 Seltos is expected to arrive in Ontario showrooms this summer, with the hybrid variant following later in the year. Standard features include Hands-On Detection, Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning, and dual 12.3-inch digital displays. The lineup spans five trims - LX, EX, EX Premium, X-Line, and X-Line Limited - each with distinct powertrains and feature sets.

Three Powertrains, One Mission

The 2027 Seltos offers three distinct powertrain options. The LX, EX, and EX Premium trims feature a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine paired with Kia's Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), prioritizing smooth, efficient daily driving.

The X-Line and X-Line Limited trims step up to a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder producing 190 hp, routed through an 8-speed automatic transmission with manual control. This powertrain delivers noticeably quicker acceleration for highway merging and passing.

The hybrid powertrain is new for 2027, pairing a 1.6-litre four-cylinder with a 6-speed dual clutch transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, but the hybrid also offers Kia's electric-AWD (e-AWD) system - a Kia first on a hybrid SUV. This e-AWD setup uses an electric motor to power the rear wheels on demand, providing all-wheel traction without the weight of traditional mechanical AWD. The hybrid is expected to arrive in Ontario dealerships by the end of 2026.

A Cabin Built for Real Life

The 2027 Seltos is larger than its predecessor in every dimension. The wheelbase stretches 60 millimetres longer, translating to more interior space. Rear legroom increases by 25 millimetres, and headroom grows by the same amount.

Cargo capacity offers 1,817 litres behind the first row and 786 litres behind the second row. A two-step foldable luggage board (available on select trims) creates a flat load floor or hidden storage compartment.

The cabin design follows Kia's "Opposites United" philosophy, balancing clean, modern lines with functional touches. The squared-off steering wheel, open centre console, and blade-like trim pieces create a cohesive, upscale look. X-Line trims feature an exclusive monotone black interior with SynTex upholstery and mesh headrests, while the X-Line Limited adds front Relaxation Seats with reclining capability.

Technology That Doesn't Overwhelm

The 2027 Seltos features dual 12.3-inch digital displays as standard equipment - a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Select trims add a 5-inch climate control display panel, bringing the total to nearly 30 inches of combined screen space and keeping HVAC adjustments separate from the main touchscreen.

Kia's latest ccNC infotainment technology is standard across all trims and includes Over-the-Air update capability. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard. Multiple USB-C ports span both rows, with rear-seat passengers getting charging ports integrated into the first-row seatbacks.

Safety Features That Come Standard

The 2027 Seltos includes a comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) as standard equipment. Hands-On Detection monitors steering wheel input to ensure driver engagement. Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning can detect oncoming traffic when making left turns and apply brakes if a collision is imminent.

Standard features include:

• Parking Distance Warning (forward and reverse)
• Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist
• Lane Keeping Assist
• Lane Following Assist
• Driver Attention Warning
• High-Beam Assist
• Intelligent Speed-Limit Assist

Available features on select trims include a 3D Surround-View Monitor, Blind-Spot View Monitor (displaying video feed on the digital instrument cluster), and Smart Cruise Control with stop-and-go capability.

Design That Commands Attention

The 2027 Seltos adopts a boxy, upright profile that prioritizes interior space and visibility. Flush door handles improve airflow and give the Seltos a cleaner appearance. The front features Kia's signature grille design, while the rear is squared off to maximize cargo volume.

Standard wheels are 16-inch alloys. The EX and EX Premium trims upgrade to 18-inch alloy wheels, while X-Line trims feature black 19-inch wheels. The X-Line also includes unique bumpers and side sills with dark gun metal accents.

New exterior colours for 2027 include Terrain Brown and Frost Blue. The available panoramic sunroof spans nearly the entire roof, flooding the cabin with natural light.

Trim Breakdown

The LX serves as the entry point, offering the 2.0-litre engine with IVT, 16-inch alloy wheels, and the full suite of standard ADAS features.

The EX adds 18-inch wheels and additional convenience features, while the EX Premium includes the 5-inch climate display panel and further upgrades.

The X-Line features the turbocharged 1.6-litre engine, 8-speed automatic transmission, 19-inch black wheels, and exclusive monotone black interior with SynTex upholstery. The X-Line Limited tops the lineup with front Relaxation Seats, memory power driver's seat with 4-way lumbar support, and additional premium features.

The hybrid variant will be available in both front-wheel drive and electric-AWD configurations. Trim details will be announced closer to its late-2026 arrival.

Why the Seltos Earns a Second Look

The 2027 Seltos doesn't just compete in the subcompact SUV segment - it reshapes expectations. Larger dimensions, a new hybrid powertrain, and flagship technology make this the most capable Seltos yet.

Visit Orillia Kia in Orillia to explore the 2027 Seltos lineup.

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