2027 Kia Seltos first drive gives you plenty of SUV for not much $ - Ars Technica

What the report says

Ars Technica reports that Kia’s redesigned 2027 Seltos aims to offer a lower-cost small SUV option at a time when much of the market is focused on pricier vehicles. In a first-drive report from Newport Beach, California, Ars says the new Seltos starts at $24,990 before delivery charges and adopts styling cues from Kia’s larger Telluride while remaining in the subcompact SUV class.

The second-generation Seltos is slightly bigger than the outgoing model, with most of the added size coming in the wheelbase. According to the report, Kia will offer three powertrain choices, though the hybrid version is not due in showrooms until the fourth quarter and remains under EPA certification. Kia has not yet released the hybrid’s output or fuel-economy figures, and Ars does not expect to drive it until early next year.

At launch, buyers can choose a 2.0-liter four-cylinder rated at 147 horsepower, available with front- or all-wheel drive, or a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 190 horsepower, all-wheel drive and the SX X-Line package. Ars lists combined fuel economy at 30 mpg for the front-drive 2.0-liter, 28 mpg for all-wheel drive, and 26 mpg for the turbo model. Pricing ranges from the entry LX to a turbo SX X-Line at $32,790, with higher equipment packages pushing the top end closer to $38,000.

Inside, Ars highlights physical controls, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, multiple USB-C ports, and generous rear-seat and cargo space. The drive impression was broadly positive, though the review noted road noise and a firm response over rough pavement.