Kia has introduced the 2027 EV3 electric SUV and a fully redesigned Seltos at the 2026 New York International Auto Show, expanding its crossover lineup with a focus on affordability and broader powertrain choice.
The two new models underscore Kia’s strategy of targeting high-demand compact crossover segments, with the EV3 positioned as a lower-cost electric alternative to the larger EV6 and EV9, while the next-generation Seltos gains hybrid technology for the first time.
The 2027 Kia EV3 enters the market as the brand’s new entry-level electric SUV, offering up to 320 miles of estimated range. Built on a 400-volt version of Kia’s E-GMP platform, the EV3 is designed to reduce costs compared with Kia’s 800-volt EV architecture while maintaining competitive charging capability. Kia says the battery can charge from 10% to 80% in approximately 29 to 31 minutes using DC fast charging.
Two battery packs will be offered: a 58.3-kWh standard-range battery delivering an estimated 220 miles of range, and an 81.4-kWh long-range pack capable of up to 320 miles in front-wheel-drive form.
Powertrain options include a 201-horsepower single-motor front-wheel-drive setup, a 261-horsepower dual-motor all-wheel-drive configuration for GT-Line AWD models, and a range-topping 288-horsepower dual-motor AWD setup for the EV3 GT.
Kia estimates the EV3 will start between $35,000 and $40,000, placing it against rivals such as the Chevrolet Bolt EV, Chevrolet Equinox EV, and Volkswagen ID.4.
Inside, the EV3 features Kia’s panoramic digital dashboard layout with dual 12.3-inch screens and a 5-inch climate control display. Standard features include wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Vehicle-to-Load functionality, allowing the battery to power external devices. Higher trims add available features such as a 12-inch head-up display, Harman Kardon audio system, and 360-degree camera system.
Alongside the EV3, Kia also debuted the second-generation 2027 Seltos, which receives a full redesign inspired by the larger Telluride SUV and rides on a larger platform with increased cargo capacity.
The new Seltos will be offered with three powertrain choices for the first time in the U.S. market: a 147-horsepower 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine, a 190-horsepower 1.6-liter turbocharged engine, and a new 1.6-liter hybrid system producing 141 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque.
The hybrid model introduces Kia’s first electric all-wheel-drive hybrid SUV setup, using an electric rear axle instead of a conventional mechanical driveshaft.
Kia says the redesigned Seltos now offers up to 64.1 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, which the automaker claims leads its segment. Ground clearance reaches 8.1 inches across the lineup.
Technology upgrades include dual 12.3-inch displays, a 5-inch climate screen, wireless smartphone connectivity, and a generative AI voice assistant. Available driver-assistance features include Blind-Spot View Monitor, which displays a live camera feed in the gauge cluster during lane changes.
The 2027 Seltos will compete against compact SUVs such as the Hyundai Kona, Honda HR-V, Toyota Corolla Cross, and Subaru Crosstrek. Kia’s combination of turbocharged, hybrid, and electric AWD hybrid options gives the model one of the broadest powertrain selections 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, while the hybrid variant is expected to follow in late 2026.
