The 2027 Kia Seltos gets a hybrid powertrain and Kia’s first e-AWD system on a hybrid SUV

Kia America took the wraps off the second-generation 2027 Seltos at the 2026 New York International Auto Show on April 1, and while the redesigned small SUV brings a longer wheelbase, more interior space, and updated technology across the board, the most notable addition to the lineup is a hybrid powertrain — the first ever offered in the Seltos. That hybrid variant will also introduce electric AWD to Kia’s hybrid SUV lineup for the first time.

The Seltos HEV uses a 1.6-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine paired with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission. Front-wheel drive is the standard configuration, with an available electric AWD system — Kia’s e-AWD — offered as an upgrade. Kia says the e-AWD system on the Seltos HEV is the first time the brand has offered electric all-wheel drive on a hybrid SUV. The system provides on-demand AWD capability, which, in a hybrid context, typically means the rear axle is driven by an electric motor independently of the front-axle drivetrain, allowing AWD functionality without a traditional mechanical connection between the axles. Kia has not yet confirmed the specific architecture, output figures, or system power ratings for the Seltos HEV.

Fuel economy estimates have not been released, and Kia says those figures, along with full specifications and pricing, will be announced closer to the hybrid’s planned on-sale date in late 2026 — several months after the gasoline variants, which are targeted to arrive in the second quarter of 2026.

A distinct interior layout for the hybrid

The Seltos HEV features a different interior layout than the gasoline-powered variants, one that Kia says draws on the larger Telluride and the EV9 electric SUV. Rather than a conventional center console-mounted gear selector, the hybrid uses a stalk-mounted shifter attached to the steering column, combined with a push-button start. Kia describes this as an ergonomic shift controller that positions the gear selector near where the driver’s hand naturally rests on the steering wheel. The practical effect is that the center console is left largely unoccupied, creating open storage space for bottles, phones, and other items. This layout is a notable departure from most compact SUVs and more closely mirrors what Kia offers in its higher-priced models.

The X-Line HEV with e-AWD is distinguished from other Seltos trims by its black 19-inch wheels, matching the X-Line 1.6T turbocharged gasoline variant. The X-Line interior, which is shared across X-Line trims regardless of powertrain, features a monotone black finish with SynTex upholstery and mesh headrests styled after the Telluride. Four-way lumbar support is standard on X-Line seats, and the X-Line Prestige Package adds a driver’s seat Relaxation function.

Context within the small SUV segment

The addition of a hybrid powertrain is a meaningful step for the Seltos in a segment where hybrid options remain relatively limited. Small SUVs like the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid and the Ford Escape Hybrid exist, but the combination of a hybrid powertrain with an available AWD system — particularly one using an electric rear axle — is less common at this price point. The e-AWD setup, if Kia’s description is accurate, would allow the front and rear axles to operate independently, which can improve traction in varying conditions and, in some hybrid implementations, allows for brief bursts of additional power from the rear motor during acceleration.

Kia has been expanding hybrid availability across its lineup, with hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants already offered in the Sportage, Sorento, and Tucson. The Seltos has historically been positioned as the brand’s most affordable SUV entry point, and adding a hybrid option brings electrified powertrain choices down to that level of the lineup.

The broader 2027 Seltos package

The hybrid arrives as part of a comprehensive redesign that affects every aspect of the Seltos. The 2027 model is longer and wider than its predecessor, with a wheelbase that is 2.4 inches longer. Cargo capacity is estimated at 27.8 cubic feet behind the second row and 64.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Ground clearance on available configurations reaches 8.1 inches, up from 7.3 inches on the outgoing model.

The 2027 Seltos offers three powertrain choices, a distinction Kia says is unique to the segment. In addition to the hybrid, the lineup includes a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder paired with Kia’s Intelligent Variable Transmission, available in LX, S, EX, and X-Line trims, and a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder rated at an estimated 190 horsepower, available exclusively in the X-Line trim and mated to an eight-speed automatic with manual control capability.

The exterior takes its design cues from the Telluride, with an upright, boxy profile, amber daytime running lights framing the front fascia, and available auto-flush door handles. New colors include Terrain Brown, Frost Blue, and Snow White Pearl with a black roof.

Inside, the dashboard centers on a 12.3-inch touchscreen using Kia’s ccNC infotainment platform, which supports over-the-air updates. An available package adds a 12.3-inch digital instrument display and a 5-inch climate control screen for a combined screen width of approximately 30 inches. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across all trims. Optional Entertainment and Data Services enable in-vehicle streaming of Netflix, YouTube, and Disney+, provided the vehicle is parked during video playback.

Standard driver assistance features include Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist 2, Smart Cruise Control with stop-and-go, and Parking Distance Warning front and rear. Available features add Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, a 360-degree Surround-View Monitor, a Blind-Spot View Monitor that displays a live camera feed on the screen when a turn signal is activated, and Safe Exit Warning.

What remains unknown

Kia has been deliberate about limiting what it has disclosed regarding the Seltos HEV. As of the New York reveal, the company has not provided horsepower or torque figures, combined system output, battery capacity, or EPA fuel economy estimates for any powertrain. Pricing for all variants will be announced at a later date. The 2.0-liter and 1.6-liter turbocharged models are expected to arrive at U.S. dealers in the second quarter of 2026, while the hybrid is not expected until the fourth quarter of 2026.