2027 Kia Seltos Engine Guide: Comparing the HEV, 2.0L, and 1.6L Turbo

The 2027 Kia Seltos arrives with three distinct powertrain options for the first time in the model's history. The naturally aspirated 2.0 L and the turbocharged 1.6 L carry over from the previous generation with new specifications. The hybrid joins as an all-new addition — a first for the Seltos and a Kia first for e-AWD on a hybrid SUV. Each engine serves a different kind of driver, and the differences between them go well beyond fuel economy.

The 2.0 L and 1.6 T versions are anticipated to arrive in Canadian dealerships this summer. The HEV powertrain is expected to follow by the end of 2026. Official fuel economy figures for all three powertrains will be confirmed closer to their respective on-sale dates.

The 2.0 L 4-Cylinder — Efficient, Accessible, Widely Available

The 2.0 L is a naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine producing 147 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque. It uses Kia's Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), which delivers smooth, stepless acceleration suited to daily commuting and mixed urban and highway driving. This engine is available in all three 2.0 L trims — LX, EX, and EX Premium — in both FWD and AWD configurations.

Fuel economy with the 2.0 L engine is 8.3 L/100 km city / 6.8 L/100 km highway / 7.6 L/100 km combined for FWD, and 8.8 L/100 km city / 7.5 L/100 km highway / 8.2 L/100 km combined for AWD. The AWD version uses a locking differential for added traction on lower-traction surfaces.

The 2.0 L is the right engine for buyers who want the broadest trim selection, accessible AWD from the LX entry trim, and predictable everyday fuel consumption without the complexity of turbocharged power delivery.

The 1.6 L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder — More Power, AWD Only

The 1.6 L T-GDI is a turbocharged direct injection 4-cylinder producing 190 hp — a 43 hp advantage over the 2.0 L — and 195 lb-ft of torque. It routes power through an 8-speed automatic transmission with manual paddle-shift control, and it is available exclusively in AWD. The 1.6 T is offered only in the X-Line and X-Line Limited trims.

The turbocharged engine changes the character of the Seltos on highway on-ramps and during loaded driving — the torque arrives earlier in the rev range compared to the naturally aspirated 2.0 L, and the 8-speed automatic's ratios are tuned to put that advantage to work. The X-Line trims also come with 19" alloy wheels, a distinctive exterior treatment, and the X-Line monotone black interior with SynTex upholstery.

The X-Line Limited adds Harman Kardon Premium Audio, Heads-Up Display (HUD), Highway Drive Assist 2 (HDA 2), Forward Collision Avoidance Assist 2, Surround View Monitor, Blind-Spot View Monitor, Digital Key 2.0, and front Relaxation Seats.

The 1.6 T is the right engine for buyers who want more power and AWD as standard, and who prefer the X-Line's distinct personality over the mainstream 2.0 L trim range.

• 190 hp / 195 lb-ft of torque
• 8-speed automatic with paddle shifters
• AWD with locking differential — only drivetrain option
• Available in X-Line AWD and X-Line Limited AWD

The HEV — New for 2027, Kia-First e-AWD

The HEV is the most significant addition to the 2027 Seltos lineup. It pairs a 1.6 L 4-cylinder hybrid engine with a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission. Front-wheel drive maximizes efficiency on straightforward daily use, while available e-AWD — a Kia first on a hybrid SUV — provides on-demand all-wheel drive capability without the mechanical complexity of a traditional AWD driveshaft connecting the front and rear axles.

The HEV is expected on-sale by end of 2026. Official fuel economy figures and full trim details will be announced closer to that date.

What is already confirmed:

• 1.6 L 4-cylinder hybrid engine
• 6-speed dual-clutch transmission
• FWD standard; e-AWD available
• No plug-in required — battery charges through regenerative braking

The HEV is the right engine for buyers who want the best fuel economy in the Seltos lineup, access to a Kia-first e-AWD system on a hybrid, and who can wait until the end of 2026 for delivery.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Which Engine Fits Your Priorities?

The 2.0 L suits most buyers who want value, choice, and predictable efficiency. The 1.6 T suits drivers who want more power and a more characterful driving experience with the X-Line styling package. The HEV is the choice for buyers who want the lowest fuel cost in the lineup and are open to waiting for the end-of-year arrival.

Talk Engines at Spinelli Kia

The team at Spinelli Kia in Pierrefonds-Roxboro can walk you through how the three powertrain options differ and which one aligns with how you drive. Get in touch or stop by to learn more.

To learn more about the 2027 Kia Seltos, visit Kia.ca