Kia has unveiled the 2027 EV3 electric SUV and a fully redesigned 2027 Seltos at the 2026 New York International Auto Show, broadening its crossover portfolio with a stronger focus on affordability, electrification, and expanded powertrain options.
The debut of both models highlights Kia’s strategy to strengthen its presence in the highly competitive compact crossover segment. The EV3 will serve as the brand’s new entry-level electric SUV, while the next-generation Seltos introduces hybrid technology for the first time in the U.S. market.
The 2027 Kia EV3 is positioned below the EV6 and EV9 as a more affordable battery-electric option. Built on a 400-volt version of Kia’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the EV3 is engineered to lower production costs while preserving fast-charging capability. According to Kia, the battery can charge from 10% to 80% in around 29 to 31 minutes using DC fast charging.
Buyers will be able to choose between two battery configurations: a 58.3-kWh standard-range pack with an estimated 220 miles of range, and an 81.4-kWh long-range battery delivering up to 320 miles in front-wheel-drive models.
Powertrain options include a 201-horsepower single-motor front-wheel-drive version, a 261-horsepower dual-motor all-wheel-drive GT-Line AWD model, and a 288-horsepower dual-motor all-wheel-drive EV3 GT performance variant.
Kia estimates the EV3 will be priced between $35,000 and $40,000, positioning it against rivals such as the Chevrolet Bolt EV, Chevrolet Equinox EV, and Volkswagen ID.4.
Inside, the EV3 adopts Kia’s latest panoramic dashboard design, featuring dual 12.3-inch displays and a separate 5-inch climate control screen. Standard equipment includes wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Vehicle-to-Load functionality that enables the battery to power external devices. Higher trims offer additional features including a 12-inch head-up display, Harman Kardon premium audio, and a 360-degree camera system.
Alongside the EV3, Kia also introduced the second-generation 2027 Seltos, which has been completely redesigned with styling cues inspired by the larger Telluride SUV. The updated model rides on a larger platform and offers increased cargo capacity.
For the first time in the U.S., the Seltos will be available with three powertrain options: a 147-horsepower 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine, a 190-horsepower 1.6-liter turbocharged engine, and a new 1.6-liter hybrid powertrain generating 141 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque.
The hybrid variant marks Kia’s first electric all-wheel-drive hybrid SUV system, using an electric rear axle in place of a conventional mechanical driveshaft.
Kia says the redesigned Seltos offers up to 64.1 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, which the company claims is best in its segment. Ground clearance stands at 8.1 inches across the range.
Technology upgrades for the Seltos include dual 12.3-inch screens, a 5-inch climate display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a generative AI voice assistant. Available driver-assistance systems include Blind-Spot View Monitor, which displays a live camera feed in the instrument cluster during lane changes.
The 2027 Seltos will compete in the compact SUV segment against models such as the Hyundai Kona, Honda HR-V, Toyota Corolla Cross, and Subaru Crosstrek. With gasoline, turbocharged, hybrid, and electric all-wheel-drive hybrid variants, Kia is giving the Seltos one of the most diverse powertrain lineups in its class.
The EV3 is scheduled to go on sale in late 2026, with final pricing to be announced closer to launch. The redesigned Seltos will arrive in mid-2026 with gasoline engines, followed by the hybrid version later in the year.
