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Price and release: what U.S. buyers need to know
Kia has opened orders for the all-new, second-generation Seltos in the United States, confirming U.S. pricing and trim availability ahead of a dealer arrival this summer. Built since late 2025 in factories across Korea, China and India, the redesigned compact crossover seeks to sharpen Kia's value proposition in the hot small-SUV segment.
MSRP breakdown
The refreshed Seltos starts at $24,990 for the base LX with front-wheel drive. The next step up, the S FWD, is priced from $26,390. All-wheel drive is available as a $1,700 option on both LX and S models. The EX is listed from $28,390 in FWD form and $30,090 with AWD. Kia's tougher-looking X-Line S begins at $28,990, while the range-topping X-Line SX starts at $32,790. These figures represent MSRP and do not include a $1,495 destination fee.
Highlights:
- LX FWD: $24,990 (MSRP)
- S FWD: $26,390 (AWD +$1,700)
- EX FWD: $28,390 | EX AWD: $30,090
- X-Line S: $28,990 | X-Line SX: $32,790
- Destination charge: $1,495 (not included in MSRPs)
How the 2027 Seltos compares to the 2026 model
For shoppers wondering about the jump from the outgoing model: the 2026 Seltos remains listed on Kia's site with lower entry prices — the LX started around $23,790, the S at $25,490 and the EX at $26,490, while the previous SX topped the lineup at about $31,490. The new-generation Seltos nudges MSRPs upward in exchange for redesigned styling, upgraded technology and revised trim content.
Powertrains and performance
Kia offers two gasoline engines for the 2027 Seltos. The naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder returns roughly 147 hp and the same basic output as before, aimed at buyers prioritizing reliability and fuel economy. A 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder is offered as the more performance-oriented option; depending on market tuning it produces either about 178 hp or up to 190 hp, matching the higher-output mill available in the prior generation.
Expect these engines to be paired with updated transmissions and tuning for better refinement. An all-wheel-drive system is available as an option on most trims for buyers who need extra traction in varied conditions.
Typical engine specs
- 2.0L naturally aspirated: ~147 hp, suitable for daily driving - 1.6L turbo: ~178–190 hp, offers stronger acceleration and passing power
Trim features and equipment
Kia has reworked interior and tech offerings across the lineup. Even the base LX comes well equipped with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, a 4.2-inch driver display, LED headlights, 16-inch wheels and a six-speaker audio system. Cloth seating, rear privacy glass and an auto-dimming mirror are included at entry level.
The S trim adds visual upgrades and convenience items such as 18-inch wheels, gloss black exterior trim, flush-mounted door handles, a wireless phone charger and a 12-way powered driver seat. Stepping to the EX brings a refreshed exterior look, LED taillights, a power liftgate, SynTex upholstery, heated front seats and dual-zone climate control with a 5-inch digital climate readout.
Kia's X-Line variants emphasize a more rugged appearance; the X-Line S strips some EX comforts in favor of styling, while the X-Line SX restores creature comforts and tacks on a panoramic sunroof, a heated steering wheel and additional features.
Market positioning and outlook
The 2027 Seltos aims to compete with other compact crossovers by balancing affordability, tech and style. The modest price increase compared with the 2026 lineup reflects added equipment and a contemporary design. A hybrid version of the Seltos is expected later in 2026, with pricing to be announced—an important move as buyers increasingly seek better fuel economy without sacrificing SUV practicality.
Quote highlight: 'Kia's new Seltos brings sharper styling and upgraded tech to a segment where features and value are everything.'
For shoppers, the decision will come down to desired powertrain, AWD needs and which trim level delivers the best mix of comfort and convenience. Dealers will receive stock this summer; prospective buyers should evaluate pricing with destination and optional AWD added in their comparisons.
Source: autoevolution
Comments
v8rider
Price up and a $1,495 destination? hmm. AWD +1700, options stack fast so a 'cheap' Seltos isnt cheap. Hybrid later, when exactly?
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