SpeedSUVs.com — The 2027 Kia Seltos debuts with a striking redesign that borrows heavily from the larger, highly popular Kia Telluride. From its front fascia to its side profile, the scaled-down crossover brings a more commanding road presence, making it look almost like a mini-Telluride in motion.
Exterior Redesign and Telluride Influence
Visual updates are the focal point of the 2027 model year update. The new Seltos adopts bolder design cues inspired directly by the Telluride. In profile, the vehicle exhibits strong proportions that echo Kia’s larger SUV lineup, giving buyers a distinctly upscale aesthetic in a smaller footprint.
Powertrains and On-Road Performance
Underneath the updated sheet metal, the 2027 Kia Seltos maintains familiar mechanical choices by offering two carryover powertrains:
- 2.0-Liter Four-Cylinder: Generates 147 horsepower.
- 1.6-Liter Turbocharged Four-Cylinder: Produces 190 horsepower.
Initial driving evaluations focused on the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine. While this turbocharged variant represents the quicker option of the two powertrains, driving impressions confirm that it still is not genuinely quick. Additionally, the new Seltos has grown in size and weight compared to its predecessor.
Fuel Economy Gains
Despite gaining weight and expanding its overall physical footprint, the redesigned Seltos manages a notable efficiency improvement. Highway fuel economy has risen to an estimated 30 mpg, offering tangible savings for long-distance driving.
Pros and Cons
Based on current specifications and initial drive reports, here is how the updated crossover stacks up:
- Pros: Fresh exterior styling reminiscent of the Telluride, multiple engine choices carry over, and improved highway fuel economy reaching 30 mpg.
- Cons: Larger overall size adds extra vehicle weight, and even the upgraded 1.6-liter turbo lacks rapid acceleration.
Conclusion
The 2027 Kia Seltos successfully elevates its curb appeal with bold Telluride-inspired styling while delivering enhanced highway efficiency. Although performance remains modest even with the 190-hp turbocharged engine option, the gains in design and efficiency make it a notable contender for buyers prioritizing style and economy in a compact crossover.
