2027 Kia Seltos HEV X-Line Gravity Grey
By Lorenzo Bianchi May 22, 2026
- Kia confirms the UK-market Seltos will be offered exclusively as a hybrid.
- New e-AWD system debuts on the Seltos HEV for improved traction.
- X-Line variants gain rugged styling details and available 19-inch wheels.
Kia Gives The Seltos A More Mature SUV Identity
The 2027 Kia Seltos HEV X-Line arrives with noticeably different priorities compared to the outgoing model. The proportions are larger, the surfaces are cleaner and the entire vehicle appears designed to feel less like a crossover hatchback and more like a proper compact SUV.
Kia says the new Seltos was developed under its “Opposites United” design philosophy, though the more obvious takeaway is how much more planted the SUV now looks.
The front fascia adopts Kia’s latest vertical Star Map lighting signature, paired with a wider grille and stronger bumper forms. Flush door handles and sharper diagonal body lines help reduce visual clutter along the profile, while the floating roof treatment and squared wheel arches push the Seltos closer to larger SUVs in appearance.
On X-Line models, the design becomes more rugged again. The press material references exclusive 19-inch X-Line wheels alongside satin silver exterior detailing and matte paint finishes.
Dimensionally, the new Seltos has grown by 45 mm in length and 30 mm in width, now measuring 4,430 mm long with a 2,690 mm wheelbase.
That extra size is immediately visible in the stance.
Hybrid Powertrain Becomes Central To The UK Lineup
For the UK market, Kia confirmed the Seltos will only be offered with the 1.6-litre GDi hybrid powertrain.
The HEV setup combines petrol and electric assistance to produce up to 157 PS in front-wheel-drive form, while e-AWD variants increase combined output to 181 PS.
Kia also introduces e-AWD technology for the first time on one of its internal combustion or hybrid vehicles. According to the company, the system is designed to improve traction and low-grip stability without compromising refinement.
Terrain driving modes including Snow, Mud and Sand are also available depending on market and drivetrain configuration.
The hybrid system itself adds a layer of usability rather than outright performance focus. Smart Regenerative Braking automatically adjusts braking force using navigation and traffic data, while Vehicle-to-Load capability allows the SUV to power external devices.
Fuel economy certification for the HEV models is still pending. [Unverified]
Cabin Design Focuses On Space And Everyday Comfort
Inside, the Seltos HEV X-Line leans heavily into practicality.
The wheelbase increase frees up additional rear legroom and headroom, while luggage capacity grows to 536 litres under the VDA measurement standard.
Kia has also moved the gear selector to a column-mounted Shift-by-Wire system, opening up the centre console and making the cabin feel less crowded. A panoramic dashboard layout combines dual 12.3-inch displays with a dedicated climate control panel.
Optional X-Line features include ventilated mesh headrests, premium audio systems and customizable 64-colour ambient lighting.
The broader impression is that Kia is trying to push the Seltos upward without abandoning the practical character that made the original model successful.
That balance may matter more than outright power figures in this segment.