The 2027 Kia Seltos Hybrid is the latest addition to the subcompact SUV segment, offering a new hybrid powertrain, modern tech suite, and streamlined cabin design. The Seltos Hybrid is Kia's baby SUV, and for the 2027 model year, it gets a full makeover. The exterior design is inspired by the mid-size Kia Telluride, with a boxy and upright styling that is clearly visible in its new dimensions. The Seltos Hybrid is slightly larger than the outgoing generation, with a 2.4-inch longer wheelbase and more cargo space in the rear.
The interior of the Seltos Hybrid employs Kia's latest design philosophy, complete with a squared-off steering wheel, a combined infotainment and digital gauge display, and a minimalist dash design. The Seltos Hybrid's powertrain features a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine aided by electric motors, producing 155 horsepower in the front-wheel-drive configuration and 179 horsepower in the all-wheel-drive configuration. The all-wheel-drive model has an additional electric motor on the rear axle.
View Price on AmazonThe Seltos Hybrid will compete with the similarly small Kia Niro Hybrid for market share in the subcompact hybrid SUV segment, but it is likely to have the edge on that model in both passenger and cargo space. The Seltos Hybrid offers 28 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, and with the rear seats folded down, there is an estimated 64 cubic feet of space available. The Seltos Hybrid also features a customizable ambient lighting system with 64 colors and a panoramic sunroof.
When we drove a prototype of the Seltos Hybrid, we found the powertrain to be smooth and quiet, but wished for more responsive acceleration. The brake pedal also didn't feel as linear as we'd like, but we'll reserve final judgment for when we drive the final version of the car. In comparison, the Seltos Hybrid's acceleration should be about average for the subcompact-SUV class, but if you want a quicker option, you can go for the nonhybrid Seltos' optional turbo engine.
Source: caranddriver.com
