2027 Kia Seltos Revealed: Specs, Hybrid Efficiency for GCC Drivers

Price: AED 100,000 Est.

If you are driving around Dubai or Abu Dhabi in a current Seltos and wondering whether to wait for the 2027 Kia Seltos, you are not alone. The next generation has already been revealed globally, with some serious upgrades that go beyond a light facelift.

The 2027 Seltos moves onto Kia's K3 platform, which brings better body rigidity and quieter cabins, as confirmed in Kia's global reveal on 10 December 2025 (Kia Global Media Center). It also grows to 4,430 mm in length, 1,830 mm in width, 1,600 mm in height, and a 2,690 mm wheelbase, so it is noticeably roomier than the current UAE model.

Kia is targeting a starting price of around AED 100,000 for the base petrol model, based on converted US estimates of $25,000–$27,000 from Car and Driver and Edmunds. The UAE launch is expected in late 2026 or early 2027 through Al Majid Motors. The headline news is the first Seltos hybrid, aiming for about 5 L/100 km fuel use, similar to the Kia Niro hybrid's 4.7–5.0 L/100 km efficiency. Inside, you get a sweeping 30‑inch panoramic display setup and a ChatGPT-powered voice assistant.

If your question is whether to buy the current model now or wait, this guide walks through the key differences, from size and engines to fuel costs and UAE‑specific usability, so you can make that call with real numbers, not guesswork.

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2027 Kia Seltos Release Date and UAE Timeline

Global Reveal and Production Rollout

Kia officially pulled the covers off the second‑generation Seltos on 10 December 2025 via a global livestream, after weeks of teasers tracked by outlets like Car and Driver, Edmunds, and The Korean Car Blog.

Production for petrol versions starts in India first, followed by South Korea, with North American production slated for 2026. Kia is aiming for about 430,000 units sold in the first year, with around 130,000 planned for the US and 100,000 for India, according to internal sales projections.

The hybrid powertrain is scheduled to join the lineup later in 2026, bringing smart regenerative braking and V2L (vehicle‑to‑load) capability. As of 10 December 2025, there are no reported delays.

Expected UAE / GCC Arrival via Al Majid Motors

Al Majid Motors, Kia's official distributor in the UAE, typically introduces new models 6 to 12 months after global production begins, once GCC calibrations for heat, dust, and fuel quality are finalized. That pattern, seen previously with the Sportage, points to UAE showroom arrivals in Q4 2026 or Q1 2027.

GCC‑spec Seltos models are expected to include an upgraded AC system, potentially slightly higher ground clearance, and a 5‑year unlimited‑kilometre local warranty. With production coming out of India and Korea, the region should see a relatively consistent supply, including the hybrid, which is planned for most markets, UAE included.

Pre‑orders and Current Model Transition

Pre‑orders are likely to open around mid‑2026 through showrooms in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.

The current 2025 / 2026 Seltos will continue on sale during the handover period, with discounts on existing stock. As of now, prices sit roughly between AED 78,000 and AED 101,500 according to Drive Arabia and YallaMotor.

Expect trade‑in programs and tailored financing for buyers who want to move from the outgoing car to the 2027 version. If you want early access to allocations, it is worth registering your interest sooner rather than later.

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Platform and Dimensions: Bigger, Quieter, More Practical

Shift to K3 Platform

The 2027 Seltos shifts from the older K2 architecture to the newer K3 platform, the same basic setup used by the Hyundai Kona, Kia Niro, and Kia K4.

According to Kia's press material, this brings:

• Higher body rigidity for more stable handling
• Better noise, vibration, and harshness insulation
• Improved compatibility with hybrid powertrains

For UAE roads, that translates into a more settled ride on Sheikh Zayed Road, less cabin boom on rougher streets, and a better foundation for the upcoming hybrid model, which is already proven locally in the Niro hybrid.

Key Size Increases vs Current Seltos

Here is how the new car stacks up against the current UAE Seltos:

Previews from U.S. News & World Report note that rear legroom and cargo space both grow, which is exactly what family buyers keep asking for.

UAE Practicality: Parking, Boot Space, Family Fit

In daily use, those numbers matter. The 2,690 mm wheelbase and 536 L boot mean more legroom for adults in the second row and easier stroller‑plus‑shopping Tetris for Dubai mall runs.

The slightly lower 1,600 mm height actually helps in tight underground car parks in Abu Dhabi and improves stability on fast E11 highway runs. Rear seats that recline up to 12 degrees will be a plus for kids and passengers during longer inter‑emirate drives.

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Exterior Design and Variants

EV‑Inspired Styling

Kia has leaned into its EV family look. The new Seltos carries a boxier stance inspired by the EV9 and EV5, with:

• Wide, mostly closed‑off grille
• Vertical Star Map LED headlights
• Strong diagonal character lines along the sides
• A floating‑style roofline
• Full‑width rear light bar that makes the car look wider

Flush‑type door handles and a hands‑free tailgate add a more premium feel than the current model, as noted in early reviews like Driving.ca.

New X Line and Matte Colours

The X Line trim targets buyers who like a more rugged look. It gets unique bumpers, darker gunmetal detailing, and extra cladding.

Kia is also highlighting several matte‑style exterior shades such as Ivory Silver, Dark Gun Metal, and Magma Red, with finishes designed to resist fading under 45°C UAE summer sun.

Heat‑Resistant Finishes and Ground Clearance

Paints and plastics are tuned to cope with sustained high temperatures, which is not marketing fluff if you have ever seen what cheap trim looks like after two Dubai summers.

Ground clearance remains roughly 190 mm, which is still enough to manage most speed bumps, steep driveways, and light gravel or desert tracks. Wheel sizes span 16 to 19 inches, giving a balance between comfort and looks. Expect the lower trims on 16‑ or 17‑inch wheels to ride more comfortably over city potholes.

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Interior Technology and Features

30‑Inch Panoramic Screens and ChatGPT AI

Inside, the new Seltos feels like a big leap. You get:

• Two 12.3‑inch screens, one for the instrument cluster and one for infotainment
• A 5‑inch dedicated climate control screen

Together, they form roughly a 30‑inch panoramic display, paired with an integrated Google-based system, over‑the‑air software updates, and a digital key that lets you unlock and start the car with your phone (Consumer Reports preview).

The talking point is the ChatGPT-powered voice assistant. Instead of fixed phrases and robotic replies, it is meant to handle more natural voice commands. Think, “I am feeling hot, lower the AC a bit and find me the nearest petrol station,” rather than memorising menu steps.

Comfort Upgrades: Seats, Sunroof, Lighting

Comfort is another focus area:

• Rear seats recline up to 12 degrees
• Front seats get a relaxation mode for breaks
• A panoramic sunroof brightens the cabin
• 64‑colour ambient lighting adds some drama at night
• Premium audio from brands like Harman Kardon or Bose (spec‑dependent)

You also get new loop‑style door handles and a redesigned steering wheel and dashboard to match the bigger screens.

UAE‑Focused AC Performance in 45°C Heat

For UAE drivers, the AC is not an afterthought. The 2027 Seltos receives:

• An upgraded AC system with a dedicated control panel
• Rear AC vents as standard on most trims
• Materials tested for UV and heat resistance

By moving the gear selector to a column shifter on some versions, Kia frees up the centre console for better storage and airflow. V2L capability will let you power laptops, fridges, or camping lights directly from the car, handy during outdoor trips or occasional power cuts.

Current Seltos owners in the UAE rate reliability at about 4.6 / 5 on platforms like OpenSooq, and many specifically praise AC performance in extreme heat, so expectations for the new model are high.

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Powertrains: Gas, Turbo, and Hybrid

Confirmed Engines: 1.6T and 2.0 NA

The global engine range includes:

• 1.6T Standard Output: 132 kW, 265 Nm, with 7‑speed DCT or 6‑speed manual
• 1.6T High Output: 142 kW, 265 Nm, with 8‑speed automatic and AWD
• 2.0 NA: 110 kW, 179 Nm, with CVT and FWD / AWD

These figures come from early coverage such as Edmunds first‑look reports. GCC specs might adjust slightly, but this gives a realistic picture.

Hybrid: Smart Regen and V2L from 2026

The first Seltos hybrid is expected to arrive in 2026. It combines:

• Smart regenerative braking that adapts to navigation data and traffic
• V2L capability so the car can power external devices
• An estimated total system output around 180 hp
• Fuel economy similar to the Kia Niro, roughly 50 mpg combined, or about 4.7 L/100 km

Some sources like TopElectricSUV and Jalopnik suggest the possibility of eAWD, though final GCC configurations are still to be confirmed.

Drivetrains for GCC Roads

Expect FWD as standard on most trims and AWD on higher grades, suited to mild off‑road or soft sand use.

Rear suspension layouts will vary: more affordable trims using a torsion‑beam setup, with multi‑link suspension reserved for higher spec or more powerful versions to improve comfort and grip.

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2027 Kia Seltos Fuel Efficiency and UAE Running Costs

Projected Petrol and Hybrid Consumption

Based on similar Kia powertrains:

• Petrol versions are expected around 7 to 9 L/100 km combined (26 to 33 mpg)
• Hybrid versions should be close to 5 L/100 km combined (about 47 mpg)

Real‑world figures in UAE heat tend to sit slightly above brochure numbers, especially with AC working hard.

Annual Fuel Costs vs Corolla Cross at AED 2.70 / L

Using AED 2.70 / L for Super 98 (UAE Fuel Price Committee, December 2025) and 20,000 km per year:

• Current Seltos at 8 L/100 km:
  Fuel used: 1,600 L
  Annual fuel cost: AED 4,320
• 2027 petrol Seltos at 7 to 8 L/100 km:
  Fuel used: 1,400 to 1,600 L
  Annual fuel cost: AED 3,780 to AED 4,320
  Savings: up to AED 540 per year
• 2027 Seltos hybrid at 5 L/100 km:
  Fuel used: 1,000 L
  Annual fuel cost: AED 2,700
  Savings vs current petrol: AED 1,620 per year

Against a Toyota Corolla Cross hybrid at about 5.5 L/100 km (fuel cost roughly AED 2,970 at the same mileage), the Seltos hybrid could slightly edge it on fuel use, while also offering more tech and boot space.

Also read: Toyota Hilux 2025 Ultimate UAE Pricing Specs And Buying Guide For Desert Reliability

Real‑World UAE Driving: City, Highway, Desert

In daily Dubai stop‑and‑go traffic, the hybrid will shine because regenerative braking recovers energy instead of wasting it as heat. On long E11 highway runs, the petrol models, especially with AWD, should deliver steady efficiency.

Owners of the current Seltos in the UAE report around 8–10 L/100 km in real use, particularly when the AC is on full blast most of the year, according to reviews on Zigwheels UAE. Expect similar or slightly better real‑world figures from the new petrol models, and a noticeable drop with the hybrid.

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Current vs 2027 Kia Seltos: Key Differences

Size, Tech, and Safety

If you are moving from the current car to the new one, the most obvious changes will be cabin tech, rear legroom, and the availability of a factory hybrid.

Ownership in UAE: Maintenance, Resale, Warranty

Kia UAE is expected to continue the 5‑year unlimited‑kilometre warranty, which remains one of the stronger offers in the segment.

Routine maintenance for petrol variants should be similar to the current model. Hybrids will add battery system checks but typically need fewer brake pad changes thanks to regeneration.

On the resale side, Kia models score around 4.6 / 5 for reliability in UAE owner feedback (such as OpenSooq), with occasional suspension fixes handled under warranty. The existing Al Majid dealer and service network covers major cities including Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and current Seltos owners often comment positively on how well the car copes with heat and dust.

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2027 Kia Seltos vs UAE Rivals

Toyota Corolla Cross, Hyundai Kona, MG ZS

Based on early global comparisons adapted for the UAE market:

The Seltos positions itself as the tech‑heavy choice, with the biggest boot and one of the strongest infotainment setups in the segment.

Also read: Top 10 Best SUVs In 2025 UAE Ranked

Hybrid Payback in AED

If the hybrid carries around a AED 10,000 premium over an equivalent petrol trim, and you drive 20,000 km per year at AED 2.70 / L, the maths looks like this:

• Annual fuel saving vs petrol: roughly AED 1,620
• Simple payback time: around 6 years if you save AED 1,620 per year on a AED 10,000 upfront difference

For higher annual mileage, that payback period can shrink further, which is why many Uber and delivery drivers lean toward hybrids once they do the sums.

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Should You Wait for the 2027 Kia Seltos or Buy Now?

Quick Guide for UAE Buyers

A few realistic scenarios:

• You need a car immediately for family or work:
  The current Seltos at around AED 78,000+ with discounts is a strong buy. You lock in proven AC performance, decent tech, and lower upfront cost. Listings on sites like YallaMotor show aggressive deals on 2025 / 2026 stock.
• You want hybrid tech and the latest screens:
  If your timeline is flexible, waiting for late 2026 or early 2027 makes sense. You get more space, the 30‑inch display, ChatGPT assistant, and far better fuel economy.
• Budget ceiling is under AED 90,000:
  The outgoing model is the realistic option. The new Seltos is likely to start at around AED 100,000 and climb from there.
• You drive long distances every year:
  The hybrid is the clever play. At 20,000 km per year or more, the fuel savings stack up quickly with AED 2.70 / L fuel prices.

Balancing Urgency vs Future‑Proofing

If your current car is on its last legs, it is rarely worth waiting a full year or more. You can pick up the existing Seltos now, enjoy the remaining warranty, and still have decent resale value if you choose to upgrade again later.

If your car is fine and you like the idea of treating your next purchase as a 5‑ to 7‑year keeper, then waiting for the 2027 Seltos hybrid is easy to justify. You get future‑ready tech and lower running costs baked in.

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Conclusion

The 2027 Kia Seltos does not just tweak the formula, it upgrades the car into something that feels closer to a compact premium SUV than an entry‑level crossover. You get more space, a grown‑up K3 platform, genuine hybrid efficiency around 47–50 mpg (about 4.7–5.0 L/100 km), and a headline 30‑inch panoramic digital layout, all wrapped in a boxier, EV‑inspired design.

For the UAE, the expected AED 100,000 starting price and late 2026 arrival keep it competitive against Toyota Corolla Cross, Hyundai Kona, and MG ZS, especially once you factor in boot space and tech. Feedback from current owners in local reviews such as Zigwheels UAE and OpenSooq shows strong satisfaction, usually rated at about 4.6 / 5, which gives some confidence that the new car will build on a solid base.

If you want a deal now, the existing Seltos is still a sensible choice. If you can wait, the 2027 model looks like the one that will feel fresh for years.

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Summary Table: 2027 Kia Seltos Key Specs (UAE Estimates)

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People Also Ask

What is the 2027 Kia Seltos release date in UAE?

Expect arrivals in late 2026 or early 2027, following the global reveal in December 2025. Pre‑orders should open through UAE dealers a few months before the first units land.

How much will the 2027 Kia Seltos cost in AED?

The base petrol model is expected to start around AED 100,000, with hybrid and higher trims likely in the AED 110,000+ range including VAT and basic fees.

Will the 2027 Kia Seltos hybrid be available in UAE?

Yes, the hybrid is planned globally from 2026, and Kia is expected to bring it to the UAE with features like smart regenerative braking that suit local stop‑and‑go traffic and rising fuel costs.

Is the 2027 Kia Seltos bigger than the current model?

Yes. The wheelbase grows by 60 mm (from 2,630 mm to 2,690 mm), and boot space increases from 498 L to 536 L, so you get more cabin and cargo room.

Should I wait for the 2027 Kia Seltos or buy the 2025 / 2026 model now?

If you need a car immediately or have a budget below AED 90,000, the 2025 / 2026 Seltos with current offers is the better choice. If you can wait roughly 12 months and want hybrid tech and the new 30‑inch display, holding out for the 2027 model is worth it.