The 2027 Kia Seltos has been detailed for the UK, with new powertrain and feature information providing a glimpse of the future of the Australian range.
For our friends in the UK, the Seltos will be available as a hybrid-only model, offering 2WD and new E-AWD versions, as well as a range of new features and technology from larger Kia models.
The Kia Seltos Hybrid (HEV) is powered by a 1.6-liter GDI four-cylinder naturally aspirated gasoline engine combined with an electric motor and battery pack. The new e-AWD version has an additional electric motor on the rear axle, introducing the latest hybrid technology from Hyundai Motor Group for the Kia brand.
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Seltos HEV-2WD models claim a system output of 154 hp (113 kW) in the UK, with the HEV-AWD increasing this to 178 hp (131 kW). Both have a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission as standard.
Additionally, the Seltos HEV will be Hyundai Motor Group’s first hybrid model to offer vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality, previously reserved for the brand’s electric vehicles (EVs). Like other vehicles with this technology, the Seltos will be able to power and charge external devices via an adapter.
The wider European market will also get a 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbocharged ‘T-GDI’ petrol engine producing 180 PS (132 kW) and 265 Nm, mated to either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed DCT.
It’s the first time the Seltos will be sold in Europe, where the now-retired XCeed crossover previously operated. British models will be manufactured in South Korea, a further change from European production of the previous XCeed, with Baseline, GT-Line and more robust X-Line trims confirmed for the UK.
While details of the Australian line-up have yet to be announced, Daily Sparkz is aware that Kia’s Australian division will follow a similar path and move to an all-hybrid lineup for the Seltos.
The second generation Seltos has grown in almost all dimensions. Its wheelbase is 60mm longer (2690mm), 45mm longer overall (4430mm) and 30mm wider (1830mm).
Load volume has also been increased from 498 liters to 536 liters, although the new Seltos is now 35mm lower at 1600mm.
The new Seltos is underpinned by Hyundai Motor Group’s K3 modular compact car architecture, meaning it now shares its architecture with Hyundai’s i30 sedan and Kona, as well as Kia’s Niro and K4, among others.
UK pricing and specifications will be announced in the third quarter of 2026. However, the highlights will include the Korean brand’s latest Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) infotainment architecture, with an available “Integrated Panoramic Display” with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch central touchscreen and a 5.3-inch climate display.
Other available features confirmed for the Seltos in the UK market include 64-color interior lighting, a premium driver relaxation seat, a “wide panoramic sunroof”, a premium Harman Kardon sound system, Kia Digital Key 2.0 and access to the Kia Connect Store – including collaboration with Disney.
The Seltos will also offer a projector-type head-up display compared to the old model’s flip-up polarizer, as well as other trick features like an AI assistant based on ChatGPT generative AI for “natural, conversational interaction.” Kia Connect Services and over-the-air software updates will also be available.
A comprehensive package of driver assistance systems is offered, including:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2 (autonomous emergency braking)
- Highway driving assistant 2
- Lane Following Assist 2 (lane centering)
- Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA, HEV exclusive)
- Parking Aid Reverse Assist (PCA-R)
- Safe exit warning
- Smart Cruise Control 2.0 (adaptive cruise control)
- Surround view camera
- Parking sensors front, side and rear
Kia says the Seltos “puts safety at the heart of its development,” with Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capability designed to “increase driver confidence in various traffic situations.”
The 2027 Kia Seltos is scheduled to arrive in Australian showrooms in the fourth quarter (October to December) of 2026, taking over the first-generation model that was first launched in 2019.
As previously mentioned, the local lineup is expected to follow the UK’s lead and rely exclusively on hybrid powertrains, including the new e-AWD powertrain.
Stay tuned Daily Sparkz for all the news about the next Kia Seltos.
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