Kia has expanded its crossover lineup with the debut of the 2027 EV3 electric SUV and a fully redesigned Seltos at the 2026 New York International Auto Show, signaling a push toward more affordable electrification and greater powertrain diversity in the compact segment.
The two models highlight Kia’s focus on high-demand small SUVs. The EV3 is positioned as a lower-cost electric alternative to the larger EV6 and EV9, while the next-generation Seltos introduces hybrid technology to the model line for the first time.
The EV3 will serve as Kia’s new entry-level electric SUV, offering an estimated driving range of up to 320 miles. It is built on a 400-volt version of the brand’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), a move aimed at reducing production costs while maintaining competitive charging performance. According to Kia, the battery can be recharged from 10% to 80% in roughly 29 to 31 minutes using DC fast charging.
Buyers will have a choice of two battery configurations: a 58.3-kWh pack with an estimated 220 miles of range, and an 81.4-kWh long-range battery 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 system for GT-Line AWD trims, and a 288-horsepower dual-motor configuration for the performance-oriented EV3 GT.
Kia expects the EV3 to be priced between $35,000 and $40,000, placing it in direct competition with models such as the Chevrolet Bolt EV, Chevrolet Equinox EV, and Volkswagen ID.4.
Inside, the EV3 features a panoramic digital cockpit with dual 12.3-inch displays and a 5-inch climate control screen. Standard technology includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Vehicle-to-Load capability that allows the vehicle to power external devices. Higher trims offer upgrades such as a 12-inch head-up display, Harman Kardon audio system, and a 360-degree camera.
Alongside the EV3, Kia introduced the second-generation 2027 Seltos, which has been fully redesigned with styling cues inspired by the larger Telluride SUV. The new model rides on an updated platform, resulting in increased interior space and cargo capacity.
For the first time in the U.S., the Seltos will be offered 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 system producing 141 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque.
The hybrid variant also introduces Kia’s first electric all-wheel-drive hybrid setup, using an electric motor on the rear axle rather than a traditional mechanical driveshaft.
Kia says the redesigned Seltos provides up to 64.1 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, a figure the company claims leads the segment. Ground clearance across the lineup reaches 8.1 inches.
Technology updates in the Seltos include dual 12.3-inch displays, a 5-inch climate interface, wireless smartphone connectivity, and a generative AI voice assistant. Available driver-assistance features include a Blind-Spot View Monitor, which displays a live camera feed in the instrument cluster during lane changes.
The 2027 Seltos will compete with compact SUVs such as the Hyundai Kona, Honda HR-V, Toyota Corolla Cross, and Subaru Crosstrek. With a mix of gasoline, turbocharged, hybrid, and electric all-wheel-drive hybrid options, Kia is positioning the model as one of the most versatile offerings 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 version is expected to follow later in the year.
