The 2027 Kia Seltos is a ground-up redesign of one of Kia's best-selling models in Canada. The outgoing generation was a capable and well-equipped subcompact SUV, but the 2027 model brings more space, a broader feature list, a new powertrain option, and a significantly updated interior. For buyers who have been watching the Seltos — or who are deciding between the two generations — here is what the new model actually changes.
The 2.0 L and 1.6 T versions of the 2027 Seltos are anticipated to arrive in Canada this summer. The new hybrid powertrain is expected to follow by the end of 2026.
At a Glance: 2026 vs. 2027 Kia Seltos
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Feature
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2026 Seltos
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2027 Seltos
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Wheelbase
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—
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60 mm longer than 2026
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Rear Legroom
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—
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+25 mm vs. 2026
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Headroom
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—
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+25 mm vs. 2026
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Cargo (behind 2nd row)
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752 L
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Est. 786 L
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Cargo (behind 1st row)
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1,778 L
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Est. 1,817 L
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Powertrains
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2.0 L, 1.6 L Turbo
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2.0 L, 1.6 L Turbo, + new HEV
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e-AWD (Hybrid)
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Not available
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Available on HEV
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Infotainment Screen
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8" (LX) / 10.25" (EX+)
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12.3" standard all trims
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Apple CarPlay
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Available (wired on base)
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Wireless, all trims
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Flush Door Handles
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—
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Standard, all trims
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OTA Updates
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Not available
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Standard
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What Gets Bigger
The 2027 Seltos grows in all the dimensions that matter for daily use. The wheelbase is 60 mm longer than the outgoing model — a meaningful change that directly increases interior volume. Rear legroom increases by 25 mm, and overall headroom improves by the same amount. Estimated cargo capacity behind the second row rises from 752 L to approximately 786 L. Behind the first row, the new model offers an estimated 1,817 L compared to 1,778 L in the 2026.
The overall length, width, and height all increase, and the upright greenhouse design of the 2027 model improves outward visibility throughout the cabin.
What Gets Better Inside
The 2026 Seltos used an 8" display on the LX trim and a 10.25" multimedia interface on higher trims. The 2027 Seltos installs a standard 12.3" digital touchscreen on every trim in the lineup. Higher trims can add a matching 12.3" digital instrument cluster and a 5" climate display panel — bringing total combined screen width to nearly 30 inches.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard across all trims, where the outgoing model offered wired connectivity on lower configurations. OTA (Over-the-Air) software update capability is also new to the lineup, allowing the vehicle's electronically controlled systems to be updated without a dealership visit.
The 2027 interior design takes cues from the "Opposites United" direction shared with other current Kia models. The squared-off steering wheel, open centre console, and structural "blades" that extend the dashboard aesthetic into the front doors give the cabin a noticeably different character than the 2026 model.
A New Powertrain Option: The Hybrid
The biggest powertrain news for the 2027 Seltos is the addition of an HEV (hybrid) option — a first for the model. The hybrid pairs a 1.6 L 4-cylinder engine with a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission. Front-wheel drive improves efficiency, and available e-AWD — a Kia first on a hybrid SUV — provides all-weather capability in a single model. Full specifications and fuel economy figures for the HEV will be confirmed closer to its on-sale date later in 2026.
The 2.0 L and 1.6 L turbocharged engines carry over from the previous generation.
Safety System Updates
The 2027 Seltos adds Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning and Parking Distance Warning (Front and Rear) to the standard safety equipment across all trims — features not previously standard. The lineup also adds Hands-On Detection and Safe Exit Alert as standard content.
Which Trim Is Right Now?
The 2026 Seltos remains a strong choice for buyers who want value on the current generation. The 2027 Seltos makes sense for buyers who want more interior space, the updated infotainment system, wireless connectivity, OTA updates, and — for those willing to wait — the new hybrid powertrain.
Compare Both Generations at Lallier Kia de Laval
The team at Lallier Kia de Laval in Laval can help you evaluate both the outgoing and incoming Seltos based on what matters most to your daily driving. Stop in or reach out for more details.
To learn more about the 2027 Kia Seltos, visit Kia.ca
