Is the 2027 Kia Seltos Worth Buying?

If you're cross-shopping small SUVs in North Kansas City, Liberty, Gladstone, or Kearney, the redesigned 2027 Kia Seltos is worth a serious look. Here's a straightforward breakdown of what's new, what it costs, and who it makes sense for — from the team at Oakes Kia NKC.

What's New for 2027?

The Seltos has just landed as a full ground-up redesign — its first since launching in 2021 — and gas-powered models are now arriving at Kia dealerships, including here at Oakes Kia NKC. Kia gave it styling cues borrowed from the redesigned Telluride: a more rugged, upright look with a longer wheelbase that translates into more rear-seat legroom and cargo space.

Quick specs at a glance:

• Starting price: $26,485 including destination (LX trim), up to $34,285 for the range-topping X-Line SX
• Base engine: 2.0-liter 4-cylinder (147 hp) with CVT
• Available turbo engine: 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder (up to 190 hp) with 8-speed automatic
• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive standard; all-wheel drive available on every trim, including a more advanced torque-vectoring AWD system on X-Line models
• Cargo space: 27.8 cubic feet behind the rear seat, up to 64.2 cubic feet with seats folded
• Trim lineup: LX, S, EX, X-Line S, and X-Line SX — including two new off-road-inspired X-Line variants
• Tech: Standard 12.3-inch touchscreen, available 12.3-inch digital cluster plus a 5-inch climate display (nearly 30 inches of combined screen space), wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Hybrid model: Still on the way, pairing a 1.6-liter engine with two electric motors and available e-AWD; expected by the end of 2026 with limited inventory at launch

Is It Worth Buying?

It's worth buying if you want:

• More space without stepping up to a bigger SUV. The extra wheelbase length translates directly into more rear legroom and cargo room, which matters if you're hauling kids, gear, or both.
• A genuinely upgraded interior. Kia carried over design language from the Telluride, so the cabin feels a class above what you'd expect at this price point — dual digital screens, available panoramic sunroof, and heated/ventilated front seats.
• Strong safety tech as standard. Forward collision warning (including intersection detection), automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and front/rear parking sensors all come standard.
• Flexibility on power. The base engine is fine for daily commuting, but the available 190-hp turbo gives you a noticeably peppier option without leaving the Seltos lineup.
• A hybrid option down the road. If fuel economy is a priority, waiting for the Seltos Hybrid (expected late 2026) adds a segment advantage most competitors in this class don't offer yet.

It might not be the right fit if:

• You're waiting specifically on the hybrid — the gas lineup is here now, but the Seltos Hybrid isn't expected until late 2026, and it'll launch with limited inventory.
• You want the turbo engine at the lowest possible price point — Kia hasn't disclosed turbo upcharge pricing on X-Line trims yet, so budget-conscious shoppers should confirm current pricing with the dealer.

How It Stacks Up

The redesigned Seltos competes directly with the Honda HR-V, Chevrolet Trax, Toyota Corolla Cross, Mazda CX-30, and Volkswagen Taos. Compared to that group, the Seltos stands out for interior tech and cargo space for the price, plus the added hybrid option arriving soon — something most rivals in this class don't offer at all.

See It for Yourself in North Kansas City

The 2027 Seltos is on the lot now, and specs and photos only tell part of the story. If you're near NKC, Liberty, Gladstone, Kearney, or Smithville, Oakes Kia NKC can walk you through trims, current inventory, and pricing, and get you behind the wheel for a test drive.

Ready to see the 2027 Seltos in person?

Pricing and specifications are based on manufacturer information available at the time of publishing and are subject to change. Contact Oakes Kia NKC for current pricing, availability, and trim details.