2027 Kia Seltos Price Increased, But It Still Remains One Of The Cheapest Compact SUVs
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The 2027 Kia Seltos has arrived with a significant update. Kia has made the crossover larger, added more interior space, improved technology, and introduced new trim levels. However, all these changes come with a higher price tag.
The Seltos remains Kia’s most affordable crossover SUV, but buyers will now have to spend more to get one.
2027 Kia Seltos Pricing
Kia has increased prices across most of the Seltos lineup for the 2027 model year. The base LX trim now starts at $26,485, which is $1,200 more than the 2026 model it replaces.
Here is a detailed price comparison:
| Trim | 2027 Price | 2026 Price | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seltos LX | $26,485 | $25,285 | +$1,200 |
| Seltos S | $27,885 | $26,985 | +$900 |
| Seltos EX | $29,885 | $27,985 | +$1,900 |
| Seltos X-Line S | $30,485 | N/A | New |
| Seltos X-Line SX | $34,285 | N/A | New |
All wheel drive remains available on the LX, S, and EX trims for an additional $1,700. That option itself is now $500 more expensive than before.
The biggest increase comes on the EX trim, which sees a jump of $1,900 compared to the outgoing model.
New X Line Trims Replace The SX
For 2027, Kia has revised the upper end of the Seltos lineup.
The previous SX trim has been discontinued and replaced by two new models:
- Seltos X Line S
- Seltos X Line SX
The outgoing SX started at $32,985. Kia has now split that position into two trims, with the X Line S starting at $30,485 and the X Line SX reaching $34,285.
This gives buyers more flexibility depending on the features and performance they want.
Bigger Size Means More Interior Space
The biggest change for the 2027 Seltos is its larger footprint.
Kia stretched the wheelbase by 2.4 inches, which directly benefits passengers sitting in the rear seats. Rear legroom increases by 1 inch compared to the previous model.
Cargo space has also improved.
Storage capacity now reaches:
- Up to 64.1 cubic feet behind the front row
- Up to 27.8 cubic feet behind the second row
For families, road trips, and everyday shopping runs, the extra room will be a welcome upgrade.
Updated Cabin And Technology
Inside, the 2027 Seltos adopts a more modern design inspired by the larger Kia Telluride.
Standard features now include:
- Wireless Apple CarPlay
- Wireless Android Auto
- 12.3 inch infotainment touchscreen
- 5.0 inch climate control display
Higher trims can also be equipped with a 12.3 inch digital instrument cluster, giving the cabin a more premium feel than many competitors in this price range.
Engine Options
The standard engine remains Kia’s naturally aspirated 2.0 litre four cylinder unit.
It produces:
- 147 horsepower
- Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Buyers looking for more performance can choose the turbocharged 1.6 litre four cylinder engine.
The turbo engine delivers:
- 190 horsepower
- Standard all wheel drive
- Available exclusively on X Line trims
This setup continues to offer one of the stronger powertrain options in the affordable compact SUV segment.
Kia Seltos Hybrid Coming Soon
Kia has also confirmed that a hybrid version of the Seltos is on the way.
The company has not released pricing or detailed specifications yet. More information is expected closer to the hybrid model’s launch later this year.
For buyers focused on fuel savings, the upcoming hybrid could become one of the most important additions to the Seltos lineup.
How The Seltos Compares To Rivals
Even after the price increase, the 2027 Kia Seltos remains one of the most affordable compact SUVs available.
Here is how it compares with some key rivals:
| Model | Starting Price |
|---|---|
| 2027 Kia Seltos LX | $26,485 |
| 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross | $26,830 |
| 2026 Hyundai Kona | $27,100 |
| 2026 Mazda CX-30 | $27,870 |
| 2026 Volkswagen Taos | $27,975 |
| 2027 Honda HR-V | $28,050 |
| 2026 Subaru Crosstrek | $28,415 |
The Seltos undercuts several well known competitors while offering a spacious cabin, modern technology, and multiple powertrain choices.
Is The Higher Price Worth It?
At first glance, a price increase is never welcome, especially when many shoppers are searching for affordable vehicles.
However, the 2027 Kia Seltos does offer meaningful upgrades. The larger cabin, increased cargo space, improved technology, and expanded trim lineup help justify much of the added cost.
More importantly, it still remains one of the least expensive compact SUVs on sale today.
The upcoming hybrid model could make the Seltos an even stronger value proposition for buyers looking to balance affordability, practicality, and fuel efficiency.
Sources & References
Official Sources
- Kia America Newsroom
Official Kia USA media website with press releases, specifications, pricing, and product announcements. - Kia USA Seltos Page
Official consumer page for the Kia Seltos with features, trims, technology, and specifications.
Trusted Automotive Sources
- Motor1
Automotive news and first look coverage with detailed reporting on new vehicle launches. - Car and Driver
Trusted source for vehicle reviews, pricing analysis, comparisons, and testing. - MotorTrend
Industry leading automotive publication covering new vehicle releases and market trends. - Edmunds
Excellent source for pricing, ownership costs, trim comparisons, and consumer research. - Kelley Blue Book (KBB)
Highly trusted vehicle pricing and market value resource used by US consumers.
Competitor Pricing References
- Toyota Corolla Cross
Official Toyota Corolla Cross specifications and pricing. - Hyundai Kona
Official Hyundai Kona pricing and features. - Honda HR-V
Official Honda HR-V information and pricing. - Mazda CX-30
Official Mazda CX-30 specifications and pricing. - Volkswagen Taos
Official Volkswagen Taos details and pricing. - Subaru Crosstrek
Official Subaru Crosstrek information and MSRP details.
2027 Kia Seltos FAQ
How much does the 2027 Kia Seltos cost?
The 2027 Kia Seltos starts at $26,485 for the LX trim. Pricing rises to $34,285 for the range-topping X Line SX model.
Why is the 2027 Kia Seltos more expensive?
Kia increased pricing because the 2027 Seltos is larger than before, offers more interior space, improved technology, additional cargo capacity, and new trim options.
What are the new trim levels for the 2027 Kia Seltos?
Kia has replaced the previous SX trim with two new models: the Seltos X Line S and Seltos X Line SX.
How much bigger is the 2027 Kia Seltos?
The wheelbase has increased by 2.4 inches. Rear passengers get 1 inch of additional legroom, while cargo space has also grown compared to the previous model.
How much cargo space does the 2027 Kia Seltos offer?
The 2027 Kia Seltos provides up to 64.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first row and up to 27.8 cubic feet behind the second row.
What technology features come standard on the 2027 Kia Seltos?
Standard features include wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, a 12.3 inch infotainment display, and a 5.0 inch climate control panel.
What engine options are available in the 2027 Kia Seltos?
The standard engine is a 2.0 litre naturally aspirated four cylinder producing 147 horsepower. X Line models receive a 1.6 litre turbocharged engine producing 190 horsepower.
Does the 2027 Kia Seltos offer all wheel drive?
Yes. All wheel drive is available on the LX, S, and EX trims for an additional $1,700. It comes standard on X Line models.
Is a Kia Seltos Hybrid coming?
Yes. Kia has confirmed that a Seltos Hybrid is planned. Full specifications and pricing will be announced closer to its launch.
Is the 2027 Kia Seltos still one of the cheapest compact SUVs?
Yes. Despite the price increase, the 2027 Kia Seltos remains cheaper than several rivals including the Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX 30, Volkswagen Taos, Honda HR V, and Subaru Crosstrek.
