The Kia Seltos has become a staple in Omaha streets, especially for our H+H Kia customers; it’s compact yet adaptable, and stylish yet affordable. But for those who have been waiting for something newer, more aligned with Kia’s current design language—and perhaps even a little more efficient—the wait is almost over. The 2027 Kia Seltos has been revealed, and it is bigger, bolder, and boxier, drawing comparisons to the EV9 or all-new 2027 Telluride, but on a smaller frame.
The Seltos gets more than a facelift for the 2027 model year; it has undergone a full redesign that carries over signature visual characteristics, efficient performance, and forward-thinking technology from Kia’s newest models—and adds most notably, for the first time ever, a hybrid option, just like the 2027 Telluride.
Let’s take a further look into the visual, powertrain, and feature changes coming with the 2027 iteration of the new Kia Seltos.
Exterior Styling Takes Cues From EV9 and Telluride
The first thing you will notice about the 2027 Kia Seltos is its stance; it has, quite literally, grown up. The incoming generation is roughly 2 inches longer in total than the outgoing model, with a wheelbase that has stretched by nearly 2.5 inches. This increase in size not only gives the Seltos a more commanding presence and impressive appearance on the road—it adds functional cargo capacity.
The design team at Kia has leaned heavily into the “boxy” aesthetic that has made the all-new Telluride such a massive hit. The front end features a bold, H-shaped grille flanked by vertical daytime running lights (DRLs) that emphasize the vehicle’s width. These “Star Map” lighting elements, similar to those found on the EV9, give the 2027 Kia Seltos a futuristic signature that will stand out at night.
Around the back, the changes are just as dramatic. The taillights are now C-shaped and connected by a light bar that spans the entire tailgate, for a wide, futuristic look. The side profile reveals chunky fender flares and blacked-out pillars, enhancing the “floating roof” effect. For those who love a rugged look, the new 2027 Kia Seltos will offer wheel options up to 19 inches, filling out those wheel arches perfectly.
The Seltos’s rugged new design isn’t just for show—its higher ground clearance and larger form factor suggest that the 2027 Kia Seltos is ready for winter slush in Omaha and gravel roads throughout Nebraska, and its new powertrain confirms this.
Adaptable Powertrain With an All-New Option
Crucially for us in the Midwest, all-wheel drive (AWD) will remain a key option across the lineup. When the snow starts falling in Nebraska, the new Kia Seltos with AWD will provide the traction and confidence you need to get home safely.
One of the most exciting announcements regarding the 2027 Kia Seltos is the addition of a hybrid powertrain. As fuel efficiency becomes a top priority for many Omaha families, having a hybrid option in the subcompact segment is a huge win.
The All-New 2027 Kia Seltos Hybrid
While specific horsepower figures for the US market are still being finalized, the hybrid system is expected to pair a 1.6-liter engine with an electric motor, similar to the setup found in the Kia Niro.
This combination will utilize Kia’s Smart Regenerative Braking System 3.0, which adjusts the braking level based on traffic and navigation data. This means better fuel economy during those stop-and-go drives during rush hour on I-80.
Gas Engine Options
For those who prefer a traditional gas engine, the 2027 Kia Seltos will continue to offer punchy performance.
2.0-Liter 4-Cylinder:
This carryover engine is expected to serve as the base, delivering reliable efficiency and around 147 horsepower. It pairs with a smooth Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
1.6-Liter Turbocharged 4-Cylinder:
For drivers who want more passing power on the highway, the high-output turbo engine returns. Generating roughly 190 horsepower, this engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, ditching the dual-clutch setup of the past for smoother shifts.
A Tech-Forward Interior for Comfortable Omaha Commutes
Step inside the 2027 Kia Seltos, and you might mistake it for a much more expensive luxury vehicle. Kia has overhauled the cabin to prioritize technology, comfort, and space. The tiered dashboard design wraps around the driver, creating a cockpit-like feel that is both modern and functional.
The centerpiece of the interior is the available panoramic display screen. This setup combines two 12.3-inch screens—one for the digital instrument cluster and one for the infotainment system—into a single, curved panel. This provides a high-tech interface for your navigation, music, and vehicle settings.
Thanks to the longer wheelbase, the 2027 Kia Seltos offers significantly more legroom for rear passengers. This is great news for families with growing kids or for those who frequently drive friends around town. The rear seats now feature a reclining function, adding an extra layer of comfort for long road trips across the state.
Up front, the “relaxation” seats found in the EV9 make their way to the Seltos. These seats are designed to reduce fatigue, which is perfect if your daily commute involves a lot of time behind the wheel. The cabin also features ambient lighting with up to 64 colors, allowing you to customize the mood for a night out in the Old Market.
Trims for Every Driver
Kia is known for offering a trim level for every type of buyer, and the 2027 Kia Seltos is no exception. While full details are still emerging, we expect the lineup to mirror the successful structure we see today, with a few additions.
Advanced Safety for Nebraska Families
Safety is paramount for Kia, and the 2027 Kia Seltos is packed with the latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).
New for 2027 is the inclusion of Highway Driving Assist 2. This system not only helps maintain your speed and distance from the car ahead but can also assist with lane changes on the highway. For anyone who drives the stretch of I-29 between Council Bluffs and Sioux City, this feature reduces driver fatigue significantly.
Other available tech features include:
- 12-inch Head-Up Display: Keeps vital info in your line of sight.
- Remote Smart Parking Assist: Helps you get into (and out of) tight parking spots.
- Surround View Monitor: Provides a 360-degree view of your surroundings, perfect for avoiding obstacles in crowded lots.
- Digital Key 2.0: Allows you to use your smartphone as a key.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the 2027 Kia Seltos
1. When will the 2027 Kia Seltos be available in Omaha?
While official release dates can shift, we expect the 2027 Kia Seltos to arrive at H+H Kia in late 2026. Production is slated to begin globally earlier in the year, with US inventory following shortly after.
2. Is there a hybrid version of the Kia Seltos?
Yes! For the first time, the 2027 Kia Seltos will offer a hybrid powertrain. This system is expected to use a 1.6-liter engine paired with an electric motor for excellent fuel economy without sacrificing performance.
3. How much bigger is the 2027 Kia Seltos compared to the current model?
The 2027 Kia Seltos is roughly 2 to 3 inches longer than the current model, with a wheelbase that has grown by about 2.4 inches. This translates to more rear legroom and slightly more cargo capacity.
4. Will the 2027 Seltos replace the Kia Sportage?
No—while the 2027 Kia Seltos has grown, it remains a subcompact SUV, slotting below the larger Kia Sportage in the lineup. It is a great alternative for those who find the Sportage slightly too big but want more room than a Soul.
5. Does the 2027 Kia Seltos have All-Wheel Drive?
Yes, All-Wheel Drive (AWD) will be an available option on most trims and potentially standard on the X-Line models. We highly recommend AWD for Nebraska drivers due to our unpredictable winter weather.
6. What is the price of the 2027 Kia Seltos?
Official pricing has not been released yet. However, we anticipate a slight increase over the current model due to the new features, larger size, and hybrid technology. Expect the base LX trim to start in the mid-$20,000 range.
Get an Amazing Deal on a 2026 Kia Seltos
While the 2027 Kia Seltos is generating a lot of excitement, its arrival is still a ways off. For drivers in Omaha and Council Bluffs who need a reliable, stylish SUV right now, there has never been a better time to look at new 2026 Kia Seltos inventory currently on our lot at H+H Kia.
Waiting for the next big redesign often means facing higher MSRPs and initial inventory shortages. By choosing a 2026 model today, you are getting a vehicle on a proven platform with features that are still top-of-the-line.
Here’s why buying now makes sense:
Immediate Availability: You don’t have to wait until late 2026 to start your adventure in a Seltos. You can drive a new Seltos home to Papillion or La Vista today.
Competitive Pricing: With the news of the 2027 redesign, this is the “sweet spot” for 2026 buyers. We are offering aggressive incentives and financing options on current inventory to make room for future arrivals.
Proven Tech & Safety: The current Seltos is already packed with safety tech like Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist and spacious interiors that beat many competitors. You aren’t sacrificing quality; you are gaining value.
Beat the New MSRP: New generations almost always come with a slightly higher MSRP. Locking in a 2026 Seltos now secures you a lower price point for a brand-new vehicle.
Ready to see what you can save? Check out our current inventory and special offers at hhkia.com.
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