by The automaker Kia has announced the world premiere of the updated compact crossover Seltos, which will take place at the New York Auto Show. This announcement looks somewhat strange, as the second-generation model was officially presented back in December 2025.
Updated Design and Dimensions
Despite the teaser being darkened, it is already known that the new Seltos has received sharper body lines and has become larger. The overall length of the second-generation car is 4,430 mm, which is 45 mm more than its predecessor. The wheelbase has also increased by 60 mm, reaching 2,690 mm. Thanks to this, the model resembles a scaled-down version of the popular Kia Sportage.
The front end has received LED optics reminiscent of the Telluride, but with split units. The side profile has become more massive and square, with sculpted fenders, flush door handles, and multi-layer plastic cladding. The rear lights, similar to those installed on the electric EV5, have become significantly thinner.
Trims and Interior
The manufacturer will offer the Seltos in three main trims: standard, sporty GT-Line, and off-road X-Line, which will differ in cladding details and finishes. For the US market, the model will receive yellow daytime running lights, unlike the white ones in the global version.
The cabin will be adorned by a panoramic curved display that combines two 12.3-inch screens — the instrument panel and the multimedia system. Options include an AI voice assistant, wireless update capability, a premium Harman Kardon or Bose audio system, ambient lighting, and a panoramic sunroof.
The increased dimensions have positively impacted practicality: the luggage compartment volume has grown to 536 liters, and the trunk floor has received a two-level folding design.
New Powertrains
In addition to design updates, a key change for the new generation was the expanded list of powertrains. For the global market, Kia announced three options: a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine with 147 hp, a turbocharged 1.6-liter unit with 178 or 190 hp, as well as a self-charging hybrid setup, the details of which will be disclosed later.
It is not yet known which specific modifications and engines will be available in the North American market, but the hybrid version is being considered as one of the main contenders. Full information about the 2027 model will be presented at the Kia press conference in New York on April 1.
The presentation of a model already known to the public at a major international auto show could be part of a marketing strategy aimed at attracting the attention of a key market. For buyers in the US and Canada, the appearance of a hybrid version could become a significant argument in favor of the Seltos in the competitive compact crossover segment, where fuel economy is becoming an increasingly important factor. The increase in size and interior improvements make the model a more serious player, capable of competing not only on price but also on the level of comfort and technology.
