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Kia continues to modernize and refine its fashions within the North American market. Now it’s the Seltos’ flip to get an entire makeover. This can be a compact crossover we’ve examined and reviewed quite a few instances, and searching again on our stories, we are able to safely say we liked the Gen 1 Seltos.
Our first evaluate was titled 2021 Seltos SX Turbo AWD Evaluation – One other Hit From Kia. We keep in mind exploring logging trails within the small crossover, a job that appeared like it will be outdoors of the car’s consolation zone. But, it was splendid on these New Hampshire unpaved sections.
Our second evaluate was titled 5 Causes To Purchase The 2024 Kia Seltos. Once more, we liked the Seltos for not only one or two options, however for 5 necessary causes. Lastly, in our final information replace on the Seltos, we fortunately reported that the ultimate mannequin yr of Gen 1 would drop its base trim’s price by $1,500. Excellent timing to fulfill the challenges of inflation head-on, and provides entry-level customers one compelling motive to buy Seltos first. We referred to as it “Tariff-proof.”
The second-gen Seltos will arrive in 2026, and we suspect it will likely be referred to as a 2027 as a result of we have already got costs for a 2026 mannequin yr Gen 1. We’ve seen the complete specs record, they usually appear spectacular for the phase. Here’s a punch record of issues that jumped off the web page after we learn the information, which can have sneaked in a number of bits that shall be for the European model:
1) A grown-up “Mini-Telluride” design language.
2) Two computerized transmissions – An 8-speed Auto and a 7-speed DCT, each of which might be mated to a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine. I’ll take the 8-speed with a conventional torque converter.
3) There’s a handbook transmission talked about within the press packet – Doubtless for base trims in Europe solely, however time will inform.
4) A hybrid joins the lineup shortly after the preliminary launch – Value ready for for my part, so long as it comes with a spare tire.
5) Elective all-wheel drive and 6 drive mode settings imply you’ll be able to tailor the Seltos to your situations.
6) Head-up show
7) Full energetic security suite
Kia picked a theme for its on-line media launch named “The Protagonist.” Usually, I believe these advertising and marketing themes are dumb, however not this time. The Seltos is tasked lots duty within the Kia line. Particularly it is job shall be going head-to-head with stable choices from entrenched rivals. Seltos might want to enchantment to a really big selection of shoppers, together with the essential entry-level shopper, since Soul is being sunsetted. If Subaru’s Crosstrek and Mazda’s CX-30 are the “antagonists,” then Seltos is the protagonist. Very cool, and somebody in advertising and marketing will get this phase. Frankly, Protagonist could be a cool title for a sports activities automotive. (Like Challenger is)
We’ll be taught extra and report extra particulars as we enter the brand new yr. Anticipate pricing to be introduced in Q1 and availability mid-year or later. Torque Information enjoys the complete help of Kia, so don’t be shocked if we’re one of many first shops to do a week-long take a look at and detailed evaluate of the brand new Seltos in early 2026.
Inform us within the feedback under in case you just like the styling.
John Goreham is the Vice President of the New England Motor Press Affiliation and an knowledgeable car tester. John accomplished an engineering program with a give attention to electrical autos, adopted by 20 years of labor in high-tech, biopharma, and the automotive provide chain earlier than turning into a information contributor. He’s a member of the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE int). Along with his fourteen years of labor at Torque Information, John has revealed hundreds of articles and evaluations at American information shops. He’s recognized for providing unfiltered opinions on car subjects. You possibly can join with John on LinkedIn and comply with his work on his private X channel or on our X channel. John employs grammar and punctuation software program when proofreading, and he typically makes use of picture technology instruments.
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