Kia has unveiled a new generation of its popular subcompact SUV, the Seltos. It now aligns more closely with the rest of the family in terms of styling, yet remains conservative under the hood unless the hybrid is confirmed for Canada.
- More than 5,000 Seltos units are sold annually in Quebec alone
- A wide range of powertrains is expected, including a possible hybrid
- The design is more mature and aligns with the EV5 and Telluride
Kia returns to the spotlight with the online world premiere of the second generation of the Seltos, a model that has become a key player in the global subcompact SUV category. Under the theme “The Protagonist,” the South Korean manufacturer aims to reposition the Seltos as a vehicle designed to accompany people in their ambitions, challenges and defining moments, whether personal or family-related. This narrative, highlighted by Kia, seeks to illustrate the role of a “protagonist” the vehicle can play in the everyday life of its users.
The new Seltos, redesigned from top to bottom, fits into a major global strategy for the brand. Kia is banking on an SUV that brings together more refinement, more versatility and more intelligent technologies, strengthening its place in a segment where competition is fierce. Since its initial launch, the model has built a strong reputation for value, reliability and ease of use. Its sales in Quebec alone are proof of its popularity, with more than 5,000 units often sold each year.
This second generation now aims to raise the bar in design, features and performance, while remaining accessible.
From its unveiling, the manufacturer stresses the evolution of the model, which now relies on a more mature design approach combined with an expanded use of digital technologies. Kia reminds us that the Seltos occupies a central role in its global SUV lineup and had to evolve according to the expectations of modern drivers. In fact, the Seltos is the second best-selling Kia vehicle in Canada.
A presentation designed to highlight the human experience
The concept “The Protagonist” is not just a marketing ploy. Kia is making a clear effort to place the user at the centre of the experience. The film revealed online portrays three people, each going through a pivotal moment, and shows how the Seltos can become a catalyst for accomplishment, freedom or connection with others. The goal is straightforward: to make the Seltos not just a vehicle, but a travel companion filled with emotion and possibility.
Ho Sung Song, President and CEO of Kia, summarized the intent behind the model, emphasizing its recognized value and renewed mission. According to him, the new Seltos must respond to a varied clientele with multiple passions by offering richer content that aligns with today’s mobility needs.
A compact SUV that further asserts its identity
On the styling front, Kia applies its “Opposites United” design philosophy, which seeks to harmonize contrasting elements to create a cohesive and modern whole. The new Seltos therefore presents a more robust yet more refined appearance. Its overall stance is more assured, the volumes sharper and the surface treatment more detailed. Designers describe a vehicle crafted for a dynamic lifestyle, equally suited to urban routines and family usage. The family resemblance with Kia’s latest SUVs is unmistakable, particularly with the EV5 and Telluride.
2027 Kia SeltosThe widened grille, integrated into the Star Map lighting signature, defines the model’s front-end identity. The Seltos also adopts flush door handles, a detail usually reserved for more upscale models. Sharper character lines along the sides give the silhouette more presence and motion. At the rear, vertical taillights connected by a light bar enhance the impression of width and stability.
The lineup will include X-Line and GT-Line versions. The X-Line receives a tougher, more rugged treatment with reinforced lower cladding and dark metallic accents. The GT-Line is more athletic with a sleeker, more dynamic body treatment. Three new colours are highlighted: Iceberg Green, Gravity Gray and a bold matte Metallic Magma Red.
A modernized interior designed for connectivity
Inside, the Seltos adopts a more contemporary approach. The lowered dashboard improves visibility, while the horizontal layout creates a cleaner, more refined environment. Kia is aiming for a more open, comfortable and flexible cabin, with improved ergonomics. The transition to an electronic Shift-by-Wire selector frees up space and simplifies the centre console.
2027 Kia SeltosThe brand also promises a more customizable experience thanks to 64-colour ambient lighting and a panoramic sunroof that brightens the cabin. The rear seats recline by 24 degrees, a rare detail in this category, enhancing passenger comfort.
For audio, Kia uses Harman Kardon and Bose depending on the trim. These systems are specifically tuned for the Seltos’s acoustic environment. The digital ecosystem flows through the Kia Connect Store, which offers additional content, applications and even collaborations with Disney or the NBA.
Performance and powertrains tailored to global markets
For this new generation, Kia uses the K3 platform to improve rigidity, stability and noise insulation. A 1.6-litre T-GDI turbo engine is available in two outputs, either 180 hp or up to 193 hp depending on configuration. Internationally, transmission choices include a manual gearbox, a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission or an eight-speed automatic. For the base powertrain, a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre four-cylinder with 149 hp is also offered.
2027 Kia SeltosAn available all-wheel-drive system rounds out the technical package, paired with a multi-link rear suspension, a Terrain Mode with settings for snow, mud or sand, and a Drive Mode Select that switches between Eco, Normal and Sport. It is worth noting that front-wheel-drive versions retain a torsion beam rear suspension.
One of the more intriguing additions is the hybrid variant arriving in 2026. It will introduce Kia’s latest technologies, including the Smart Regenerative Braking System 3.0, which automatically adjusts regenerative braking based on navigation data and traffic to maximize efficiency. This version will also offer Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability to power external devices. This feature remains unconfirmed for the Canadian market.
Technology, safety and advanced driver assistance
Kia equips the Seltos with numerous driver assistance technologies. Safety receives particular attention through extensive use of ultra-high-strength steel. Electronic aids include Highway Driving Assist 2, Lane Following Assist 2, Forward Collision Avoidance Assist 2, Safe Exit Warning and several monitoring systems for parking manoeuvres. A 360-degree camera and a head-up display projecting driving information onto the windshield add to overall awareness.
2027 Kia SeltosThe digital interface consists of two 12.3-inch displays with a separate climate control panel. The vehicle also features a conversational AI assistant, over-the-air software updates and a digital key accessible through a smartphone.
Cargo space remains a strong point, with a trunk capacity of 536 litres and a flexible dual-level floor offering multiple configurations. Kia also adds its AddGear modular accessory system, which allows users to integrate storage solutions more easily.
Global rollout
Global production will begin in December 2025 in India. The model will then be launched progressively in Korea, North America, Europe and China throughout 2026.
