2027 Kia Seltos Buyer's Guide: Trims, AWD Tech, and Everything Confirmed So Far

The 2027 Kia Seltos is a complete redesign, and for a buyer doing early research, there is already a substantial amount of confirmed information to work with. Trim structure, available powertrains, standard technology, AWD configurations, and the key feature steps between trims are all documented. Pricing will be announced closer to the on-sale date this summer for the 2.0 L and 1.6 T versions, and by end of 2026 for the HEV.

This buyer's guide covers everything confirmed about the 2027 Seltos as of the Canadian market documentation.

The Trim Structure

The 2027 Seltos Canadian lineup is organized into five trims across two engine families:

• LX — 2.0 L | FWD and AWD
• EX — 2.0 L | AWD
• EX Premium — 2.0 L | AWD
• X-Line — 1.6 L Turbo | AWD only
• X-Line Limited — 1.6 L Turbo | AWD only

The HEV powertrain will add additional trim configurations when it arrives later in 2026. Those details will be confirmed closer to its on-sale date.

The Three Engines

2.0 L 4-Cylinder (IVT) — 147 hp / 132 lb-ft of torque. Available in LX (FWD and AWD), EX (AWD), and EX Premium (AWD). Fuel economy: 8.3/6.8/7.6 L/100 km combined FWD; 8.8/7.5/8.2 L/100 km combined AWD.

1.6 L Turbocharged GDI (8-speed automatic) — 190 hp / 195 lb-ft of torque. AWD only. Available in X-Line AWD and X-Line Limited AWD.

HEV (1.6 L 4-cylinder + 6-speed DCT) — A Seltos first. FWD standard, e-AWD available. The e-AWD is also a Kia first on a hybrid SUV. Full output and fuel economy figures will be confirmed closer to the HEV's on-sale date.

The AWD Technology

AWD in the 2027 Seltos uses a locking differential across all AWD-equipped configurations. This is a meaningful detail: a locking differential maintains equal torque distribution between left and right wheels, which improves traction on genuinely low-grip surfaces rather than simply reacting to slip after it occurs.

The HEV's e-AWD uses an electric motor on the rear axle to provide on-demand AWD without a mechanical driveshaft. This allows the front-drive hybrid to add rear-axle traction when conditions call for it, with the added advantage of near-instant electric motor response time.

What Is Standard Across All Trims

Every 2027 Seltos trim includes:

• 12.3" digital touchscreen (standard all trims)
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go
• OTA (Over-the-Air) software updates
• Remote start
• Heated front seats
• 8 airbags (including rear side airbags)
• Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning
• Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist
• Parking Distance Warning — front and rear
• Hands-On Detection
• Safe Exit Alert
• USB-C ports in both rows

Key Steps Between Trims

LX → EX: AWD with locking differential becomes the only option. Leatherette seats, heated steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate with 5" display, built-in navigation, Highway Driving Assist (HDA), power liftgate, 18" alloy wheels.

EX → EX Premium: Ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, driver memory seat with power 4-way lumbar, panoramic sunroof, Surround View Monitor, Blind-Spot View Monitor, ambient mood lighting, power smart liftgate.

EX Premium → X-Line: Engine changes to 1.6 L Turbo (190 hp), 8-speed automatic, 19" alloy wheels, X-Line exterior and interior theme (Piano Black bumpers, dark gunmetal accents, monotone black SynTex interior, 4-way lumbar standard). Integrated triple-display setup (12" + 5" + 12").

X-Line → X-Line Limited: HDA 2, FCA 2 (with Junction Crossing, Lane-Change Oncoming, Lane-Change Side, Evasive Steering Assist), Harman Kardon Premium Audio, Heads-Up Display (HUD), Surround View Monitor, Blind-Spot View Monitor, Parking Collision Avoidance Assist (Reverse), Digital Key 2.0, rain-sensing wipers, front Relaxation Seats.

Summary Table: Trims at a Glance

Timing and Pricing

The 2.0 L and 1.6 T versions are anticipated to arrive in Canada this summer. The HEV is expected by end of 2026. Canadian MSRP for the 2027 Seltos will be confirmed closer to the on-sale date — for the latest pricing information, reach out to the dealership directly.

Talk to Winnipeg Kia Before You Decide

The team at Winnipeg Kia in Winnipeg can give you the most current information on the 2027 Seltos as announcements are made, and help you compare trims against your priorities. Stop in or get in touch before the on-sale date.

To learn more about the 2027 Kia Seltos, visit Kia.ca