Kia has completely redesigned the Seltos for 2027, and the changes run deeper than a fresh coat of paint. This second-generation model is longer, wider, roomier, and packed with technology that was upmarket-only just a few years ago. The subcompact SUV arrives with flush door handles, nearly 30 inches of combined digital displays, and a new hybrid powertrain option with Kia's first-ever electric all-wheel drive system on a hybrid SUV.
For Quebec drivers navigating everything from Montreal's urban grid to the Laurentians' winding roads, the Seltos offers three powertrain choices, a significantly larger cabin, and advanced safety systems standard across the lineup. The 2.0-litre and turbocharged 1.6-litre engines arrive in Canada this summer, with the hybrid following by year's end.
What Makes the 2027 Seltos Different
The redesign touches every part of the vehicle. The wheelbase stretches 60 millimetres longer, translating to 25 millimetres more rear legroom and headroom. Cargo capacity grows to an estimated 1,817 litres behind the first row and 786 litres behind the second row - enough for a full week's groceries plus hockey bags or camping gear.
The exterior adopts Kia's "Opposites United" design philosophy, bringing together bold angles and clean lines. Flush door handles sit flat against the body, and the upright profile gives the Seltos a more substantial presence. Wheels range from 16-inch alloys on base trims to black 19-inch wheels on X-Line variants. New colours include Terrain Brown and Frost Blue.
Inside, the squared-off steering wheel, open centre console, and clean horizontal lines create a modern, uncluttered environment. The X-Line trim gets monotone black interior with SynTex upholstery, mesh headrests, and standard four-way lumbar support. The X-Line Limited adds front Relaxation Seats.
The digital cockpit is standard across all trims: dual 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and touchscreen display, with an available 5-inch climate control panel. The ccNC infotainment system supports over-the-air updates, wireless Apple CarPlay, and wireless Android Auto. Multiple USB-C ports span both rows.
Three Powertrains, Three Approaches
2.0-Litre Naturally Aspirated Engine (LX, EX, EX Premium):
The base 2.0-litre four-cylinder produces 147 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with Kia's Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT). Available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive (EX Premium is AWD-only). Built for city driving and easy highway cruising without the fuel penalty of a larger engine.
1.6-Litre Turbocharged Engine (X-Line, X-Line Limited):
The turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder delivers 190 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque through an 8-speed automatic transmission. AWD-only. X-Line trims feature unique bumpers, side sills with Piano Black trim, and dark gun metal accents for sharper acceleration and a more aggressive stance.
1.6-Litre Hybrid (HEV):
The new hybrid powertrain pairs a 1.6-litre four-cylinder with a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission. Front-wheel drive improves efficiency, while the available e-AWD system adds on-demand traction without the weight and complexity of mechanical AWD. Official fuel economy figures will be released closer to the hybrid's on-sale date.
Safety Systems That Come Standard
The 2027 Seltos includes comprehensive Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) as standard equipment. This includes Advanced Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning, which detects vehicles crossing your path at intersections and applies brakes if needed. Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist monitors beside the vehicle and intervenes during unsafe lane changes. Parking Distance Warning for forward and reverse helps avoid low-speed collisions.
Other standard systems include:
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Lane Following Assist
- Driver Attention Warning
- High-Beam Assist
- Intelligent Speed-Limit Assist
EX Premium and higher trims add Highway Driving Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with lane centring. X-Line trims offer optional 3D Surround-View Monitor and Blind-Spot View Monitor, which displays video feed on the digital display when you activate the turn signal.
Safe Exit Alert warns rear passengers if a vehicle is approaching before they open the door, while Rear Occupant Alert reminds you to check the back seat before locking the vehicle.
Technology Features That Raise the Bar
The dual 12.3-inch displays are standard across all trims, providing a digital instrument cluster and large touchscreen interface. The available 5-inch climate control panel keeps HVAC adjustments separate from the main touchscreen for easier temperature changes.
The ccNC infotainment system supports over-the-air updates, allowing new features and improvements without dealership visits. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, with multiple USB-C ports for charging devices in both rows.
Higher trims add wireless phone charger, Bose premium audio system, and heads-up display projecting key driving information onto the windshield. X-Line trims include Digital Key 2 Touch, letting you use your smartphone as your car key and transfer a secure digital key to others.
The panoramic sunroof spans both rows on select trims. Power liftgate, ambient mood lighting, and auto-dimming rearview mirror are available depending on trim level.
Cargo Organization and Practicality
The 2027 Seltos includes Kia Add Gear cargo organization as standard equipment - a modular system keeping items secure and organised. The two-step foldable luggage board offers additional storage on select models. The 60:40 split-folding rear seats allow cargo area configuration based on what you're carrying, and larger dimensions mean more space without compromising rear-seat comfort.
The upright greenhouse design improves outward visibility for easier parking and navigating tight urban streets. The squared-off rear end maximizes usable cargo space, and the wider rear opening makes loading bulky items more straightforward.
The Lineup and What to Expect
The 2027 Seltos is available in six trims: LX, EX, EX Premium, X-Line, X-Line Limited, and HEV. The LX and EX offer FWD or AWD with the 2.0-litre engine. The EX Premium is AWD-only with the 2.0-litre. The X-Line and X-Line Limited are AWD-only with the turbocharged 1.6-litre. The HEV offers FWD or electric AWD with the hybrid powertrain.
Specific trim details will be announced closer to the on-sale date. The 2.0-litre and 1.6-litre turbocharged engines arrive in Canada this summer, with the hybrid following by year's end.
Why the Redesign Matters
The subcompact SUV segment is one of the most competitive in Canada, and the 2027 Seltos enters with features that were upmarket-only just a few years ago. The larger dimensions create a more spacious cabin without pushing the Seltos into a larger size class, and three powertrain options let buyers choose between efficiency, performance, or hybrid capability.
For Quebec drivers, the combination of available all-wheel drive, a longer wheelbase for stability, and safety systems designed for urban and highway driving makes the Seltos a practical choice. The hybrid powertrain adds a new option for buyers wanting lower fuel consumption without stepping up to a plug-in or fully electric vehicle.
Visit Lallier Kia Vimont in Laval to learn more about the 2027 Seltos and reserve your spot for a test drive when the first units arrive this summer.
To learn more about the 2027 Kia Seltos, visit Kia.ca
