Kia Seltos Levels Up: Hybrid Patch Added, Telluride Design Enabled

The Kia Seltos has steadily become one of the most popular choices in Kia’s SUV family since first arriving in the United States in 2020. It fills a unique space in the lineup, offering more room and practicality than the compact designs many drivers started with, yet remaining easier to maneuver and more accessible than larger SUVs.

This balance of comfort, capability, and smart design has helped the Seltos earn a strong following among shoppers who want a vehicle that fits seamlessly into everyday life here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis. As the demand for compact SUVs continues to grow, the Seltos has consistently stood out as a model that delivers style, versatility, and impressive value in a segment filled with options.

Now, the next big chapter is approaching. Kia is preparing to introduce the next generation of the Seltos, bringing a completely new look and advanced technology to a model already known for being dependable and enjoyable to drive. According to industry reports, the global reveal is expected in late 2025, with availability in the United States anticipated for the 2027 model year. For drivers who love the current Seltos or those considering joining the Kia family, the upcoming redesign offers an exciting glimpse at what is coming next.

Next-Gen Styling: A Boxier, More Confident Profile

Early information suggests that the new Seltos will make a dramatic design leap, adopting styling cues from the award-winning Kia Telluride. The Telluride has become one of the most recognizable and admired SUVs on the road, and the next-generation Seltos looks ready to bring that same bold character into the compact SUV class. Expect a boxier profile that communicates confidence from every angle. A wider front grille will give the SUV a stronger face, and squared headlamps will help create a look that feels modern and upscale.

Additional sculpting along the body and a more defined shoulder line will highlight its athletic stance, while robust cladding around the lower areas will support its SUV identity. Toward the rear, the redesign is expected to include Telluride-inspired LED taillights that stretch horizontally to enhance visibility and presence.

A cleaner, more upright tailgate design and a roof-mounted spoiler will contribute to a polished, contemporary appearance. Together, these updates bring the next Seltos closer in spirit to Kia’s larger SUVs, while still keeping the footprint compact and city-friendly.

Built on a Strong Foundation of Versatility

The current Seltos has been praised for feeling larger inside than its exterior size suggests. Generous headroom, plentiful legroom, and a thoughtfully designed cargo area make it a smart choice for commuters, small families, and anyone who appreciates practicality without the bulk of a midsize SUV. The upcoming redesign is expected to build on this strong foundation. While the new styling shifts toward a more rugged personality, the interior spaciousness that attracts so many customers today is expected to remain a key priority.

Today’s Seltos offers two engine choices that meet the needs of a wide range of drivers. The standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine provides a smooth, efficient experience for daily travel, while the available 1.6-liter turbocharged engine boosts horsepower and responsiveness for those who prefer a more energetic driving experience. Both engines are available with all-wheel drive, which has made the Seltos a trusted companion for road trips, changing weather, and weekend adventures.

A Hybrid Boost for a Fan-Favorite SUV

As part of Kia’s continued commitment to electrification, the next-generation Seltos is expected to take an important step forward. Reports indicate that Kia may equip the new model with the same 1.6-liter turbo-hybrid powertrain found in the Sportage. This proven hybrid system combines fuel-conscious engineering with impressive everyday performance.

If included, it would mark the first time the Seltos is offered with hybrid capability in the United States, giving customers a new reason to consider this compact SUV. It would also make the Seltos an appealing option for drivers interested in saving fuel without moving into a fully electric vehicle just yet.

Adding a hybrid option would also complement the Seltos’ strong reputation for efficiency, comfort, and convenience. Today’s model already delivers a quiet ride and refined handling, and a hybrid version would build on these strengths, giving drivers even more ways to tailor the Seltos to their lifestyles.

Room to Relax, Space to Store

Design updates are expected to extend into the interior as well. Kia has continued to advance its in-cabin technology across the lineup, and the next-generation Seltos will likely feature the latest digital displays, connectivity features, and comfort-enhancing upgrades. The current model already offers an available 10.25-inch touchscreen, and the next version may expand display sizes even further while incorporating the newest interface improvements seen in Kia’s larger vehicles.

Clean dash layouts, premium materials, and intuitive controls have become trademarks of Kia interiors, and customers can anticipate these qualities to be highlighted even more. Seating comfort and storage solutions will continue to be key focuses. The Seltos has historically delivered one of the roomiest cabins in the subcompact SUV category, and the redesigned interior will aim to enhance passenger comfort while keeping cargo space flexible and user-friendly.

The Future of Compact SUVs Is Taking Shape

Whether used for daily commutes, road trips, or active weekend plans, the Kia Seltos is designed to fit a variety of lifestyles, and the next-generation model looks ready to elevate that versatility even further. Exterior personalization has also been an important part of the Seltos’ identity, and that philosophy is expected to continue.

With the bolder new design, customers will likely see fresh wheel options, updated paint choices, and additional appearance packages that help express individual taste. As Kia expands its SUV lineup, offering more customization within the compact class helps drivers choose a vehicle that feels uniquely their own. The Seltos continues to be a standout in a competitive segment because it delivers a complete package. It offers striking design, modern technology, practical everyday comfort, and confident performance, all wrapped in a compact form that works well for drivers in all kinds of environments.

The upcoming redesign aims to elevate these qualities and introduce new advantages such as hybrid efficiency and Telluride-inspired styling. For anyone exploring the compact SUV market, the next-generation Kia Seltos is shaping up to be an exciting option. With a bold new look, advanced powertrain possibilities, and the thoughtful engineering that Kia is known for, the future Seltos is preparing to offer even more capability and appeal for years to come.

Refined Yet Relentless: The 2027 Telluride Flexes Its Upgraded Power

The Kia Telluride has rightfully earned its strong reputation in the auto industry as one of the most practical and stylish three-row SUVs on the market. For 2027, Kia builds on that success with a second-generation model that enhances what made the original so admired. The redesign focuses on refinement, presence, and modern functionality while preserving the bold personality drivers already know. 

Built at Kia’s facility in Georgia and shaped at the design center in Irvine, California, the latest Telluride blends American craftsmanship with forward-thinking style. The 2027 model adopts a more defined and confident interpretation of the boxy shape that made the first generation instantly recognizable. The new body grows slightly in length and wheelbase, adding presence on the road and contributing to a smoother ride for families on a busy schedule and mindful budget!  

A wide front grille now stretches across the entire nose of the SUV, framed by vertical amber LED daytime running lights inspired by the Telluride’s original lighting signature here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis. 

X-Pro Returns with a More Adventurous Attitude

The rear design mirrors this theme with tall, sculpted taillights separated by body-colored sections that create an architectural, upscale look. Many shoppers will notice that the updated silhouette carries the kind of premium styling often associated with far more expensive vehicles. The body lines feel tailored and precise, reflecting Kia’s design philosophy that emphasizes subtle strength over flashy details. 

Distinctive sculpted accents around the wheel openings create a unique visual character that keeps the SUV feeling modern and forward-looking. Elements such as flush door handles and streamlined cladding bring a clean, contemporary touch without sacrificing the Telluride’s strong, rugged presence. Savvy drivers who enjoy capability will appreciate the return of the X-Pro trim, which brings a more adventurous personality. 

A Warm, Modern Cabin Designed with Elegant Simplicity

This version features prominent black exterior accents, a bold mesh grille, raised roof rails, and a confident stance on all-terrain tires. With 9.1 inches of ground clearance and standard recovery hooks, the X-Pro trim is designed to support outdoor travel and rural exploration. A new Ground Lighting system projects illumination around the sides and rear of the vehicle, adding convenience for campsite setups, early-morning launches, or evening activities near the lake.

The interior of the 2027 Telluride introduces an atmosphere that feels warm, modern, and sophisticated. Kia designed the cabin with a philosophy centered on elegant simplicity. Soft surfaces and premium finishes blend with textured accents to create a space that feels both refined and inviting. 

Two 12.3-inch displays sit within a clean rectangular panel that stretches across the dashboard, delivering bright graphics and easily accessible vehicle information. The column-mounted gear selector opens up the center console area, creating a more comfortable and clutter-free layout.

Bigger, Smarter, and Ready for More: The Next Telluride Levels Up

With the slightly larger dimensions, accessibility improves throughout the cabin. Passengers in the second and third rows benefit from easier entry and exit, and models equipped with a sunroof offer additional headroom. These enhancements make daily life easier for busy families shuttling kids to school, visiting relatives, or heading out for weekend trips. 

The cargo area also receives thoughtful updates, including a reconfigurable space with an available folding surface that can serve as a small outdoor table, complete with measurement markings for added utility. Kia will share full performance details soon, but expectations for the 2027 model include a smooth and capable V6 engine along with an available turbocharged hybrid powertrain. 

Both options are designed to deliver strong everyday performance, responsive acceleration, and efficiency that supports a wide variety of driving needs. Front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations are expected, giving drivers flexibility to match their preferred setup. 

Personalized Style Meets Everyday Practicality in Kia’s Latest SUV

These options help ensure the Telluride continues to serve families who want reliable strength for highway travel, commuting, or trips across our state’s winding rural routes. Wheel choices are expected to range from 18 to 21 inches, highlighting the SUV’s athletic proportions. A broad color palette will give shoppers the opportunity to personalize their Telluride with rich tones such as Black Jade Green and Terrain Brown in both gloss and matte finishes. 

Seating for up to eight passengers remains available, allowing the SUV to meet the needs of growing families, carpoolers, and anyone who appreciates generous passenger capacity. The second-generation Telluride is scheduled to arrive in showrooms during the first quarter of 2026. Full trim information will be revealed at the upcoming Los Angeles Auto Show. With its combination of bold design, premium craftsmanship, expanded functionality, and advanced technology, the 2027 model strengthens everything drivers already value about the Telluride name.

More Room, More Refinement, More Reasons to Love the Telluride

The refreshed Telluride continues to offer the strong blend of comfort, capability, and upscale appeal that has made it a favorite nationwide. Families, commuters, and adventure-seekers alike will find a thoughtfully built SUV that supports busy schedules and weekend travel with confidence and style. 

The updated design brings an elevated presence on the road, while the expanded interior space and premium details make daily driving more enjoyable. With the 2027 Kia Telluride, Kia reinforces its commitment to delivering practical luxury and dependable performance in a way that fits the needs of today’s drivers.

Haul the Crew, the Gear, and the Good Times: The 2026 Kia Carnival Has You Covered

The 2026 Kia Carnival continues to redefine what a family vehicle can be. Built for drivers who want space, style, and strength in one package, the Carnival blends the versatility of a minivan with the bold attitude of an SUV. Whether running errands around the metro or heading to the Lake of the Ozarks for a long weekend, this vehicle keeps every journey comfortable, connected, and confident.

Originally introduced in 2022, the Carnival made an immediate impression for its premium look and impressive feature set here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis. A major update in 2025 gave it fresh styling and more technology, and the 2026 model continues that momentum with the same combination of practicality, innovation, and performance that drivers have come to expect from Kia.

Performance That’s Ready for Every Trip

Under the hood, every 2026 Carnival comes equipped with a powerful V6 engine that delivers smooth and responsive acceleration. With front-wheel drive and an advanced eight-speed automatic transmission, it offers a confident, composed drive whether you’re merging onto the highway or navigating city streets in Kansas City.

Drivers will appreciate how light the steering feels, making tight parking lots or busy intersections easy to handle. The suspension is tuned for comfort, allowing the Carnival to glide over Missouri’s mix of city roads and rolling countryside. Even with a full cabin of passengers, this minivan maintains stability and balance that inspire confidence behind the wheel.

For families who love the outdoors, the Carnival offers a towing capability strong enough to handle small trailers, bikes, or weekend gear. It’s a great match for adventures, whether that means a camping trip in the Ozarks or an impromptu lake getaway.

Refined Comfort and Flexible Seating

Step inside the Carnival and the first impression is premium comfort. The cabin design feels both modern and inviting, with quality materials, thoughtful finishes, and a layout that emphasizes convenience. Available seating for seven or eight passengers makes it ideal for larger families or anyone who frequently travels with friends and extra cargo.

The first and second rows provide generous space for adults to stretch out, and the seats are well-cushioned for long drives. On higher trims, the available VIP Lounge seats in the second row transform the experience with power adjustments, ventilation, and extendable leg rests. These seats make even long road trips feel like first-class travel.

Large sliding doors make getting in and out of the vehicle a breeze, especially helpful for parents loading up kids, strollers, or sports equipment. The cabin layout also offers smart storage areas throughout, including a spacious center console and plenty of cupholders and cubbies for everyone on board.

Cargo Space That Works as Hard as You Do

One of the Carnival’s biggest advantages is its flexible cargo space. Behind the third row, there’s enough room for everyday items like groceries or backpacks. When it’s time for something bigger, like home improvement supplies, luggage, or outdoor gear, the rear seats fold down to create a massive flat load area.

Even with every seat filled, the Carnival provides smart solutions for keeping the cabin organized. Families will love the low lift-over height and wide rear opening that make loading large items easy. Whether it’s tailgating at a Chiefs game or packing for a weekend in Branson, this vehicle adapts quickly to whatever the day demands.

Technology That Connects and Simplifies

The 2026 Carnival embraces modern tech in a way that enhances every drive. The dashboard features a sleek dual-screen setup, with a 12.3-inch infotainment display alongside a matching digital instrument cluster on upper trims. The system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing effortless access to music, navigation, and apps without messy cables.

Multiple USB ports are located throughout the cabin so every passenger can stay powered up, and available wireless charging adds another level of convenience. Premium audio options, including a Bose sound system, create a rich listening experience whether you’re enjoying a podcast or your favorite playlist.

The interface itself is simple and intuitive, with clear graphics and responsive touch controls. Voice recognition allows easy hands-free adjustments, and the available in-cabin camera lets the driver check on second- and third-row passengers without turning around, perfect for families with younger kids.

Safety You Can Count On

Kia has built the Carnival with a strong commitment to safety. A full suite of driver-assistance systems comes standard, including forward collision avoidance, lane-keeping assistance, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot monitoring. These systems work together to provide an extra layer of confidence in busy traffic or on long highway stretches.

Advanced options such as adaptive cruise control with lane-centering, a 360-degree surround-view camera, and a head-up display are available on higher trims. These features give the driver a clear view of what’s around the vehicle and make it easier to stay aware of changing road conditions.

Child seat installation is straightforward thanks to a well-designed LATCH system, and wide rear doors make it simple to secure car seats or help kids climb in.

Quality and Long-Term Confidence

Kia’s reputation for reliability continues to grow, and the Carnival reflects that with solid build quality and long-lasting dependability. Each model is backed by one of the strongest warranty programs in the industry, offering long-term peace of mind to families and commuters alike.

From the engine and transmission to the interior finishes, every detail is crafted to deliver lasting comfort and performance. Whether the day involves carpools, road trips, or weekend adventures, the Carnival is designed to handle life’s demands with ease.

Trim Options for Every Need

The 2026 Carnival lineup includes several trims, each offering a thoughtful balance of technology, comfort, and design. Even the entry model is well-equipped, with features like power-sliding doors, tri-zone automatic climate control, and advanced safety technology.

As you move up the range, you’ll find amenities such as heated and ventilated front seats, a power liftgate, dual sunroofs, and luxurious second-row seating. The top-tier trim adds exclusive finishes and technology designed to elevate the family driving experience even further.

The Ultimate Family Vehicle for Modern Life

The 2026 Kia Carnival is more than just a minivan; it’s a statement of versatility, innovation, and confidence. With its bold SUV-inspired styling, generous interior space, and thoughtful technology, it’s built for drivers who want the best of all worlds.

For busy families here at the Jim Butler Kia, this vehicle offers a perfect mix of strength, sophistication, and everyday practicality. Whether the destination is across town or across the state, the Carnival delivers comfort, capability, and peace of mind with every mile.

Sustainable, Stylish, and So Ready for Road Trips: The 2026 Kia EV9 Is Your Electric Escape Pod

The all-new 2026 Kia EV9 brings modern electric luxury to families who want space, comfort, and impressive all-electric performance. With available seating for up to seven passengers, a range of over 300 miles, and a well-crafted, tech-forward interior, this SUV is designed to make every drive feel effortless. About the same size as the popular Kia Telluride, the EV9 delivers a sophisticated electric experience while offering the practicality and space today’s drivers expect.

Available in several well-equipped trims, the EV9 offers rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive depending on configuration. Most models feature all-wheel drive as standard, giving drivers the confidence to tackle any season here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis. 

Though similar in size to the Telluride, the EV9 leans more toward premium territory in every sense. Even the base model is filled with upscale materials and cutting-edge technology. For those who want maximum performance, the EV9 GT-Line leads the way with the highest horsepower and a suite of luxury and technology upgrades. Still, every version of the EV9 feels elevated, blending quiet refinement with powerful capability.

Room to Relax

Inside, the 2026 Kia EV9 impresses immediately with its open, spacious layout. Kia designed it to provide the kind of comfort families need for long days on the road. The EV9 is just under an inch longer than the Telluride but features a wheelbase that’s over seven inches longer. That stretch translates to noticeably more legroom and a flat floor that gives everyone space to stretch out. Because the EV9’s electric platform eliminates the need for a transmission tunnel, even third-row passengers enjoy excellent comfort and room to move.

Depending on configuration, the EV9 offers either a second-row bench for seating up to seven or available captain’s chairs for six passengers. The third row is impressively accommodating for adults, with generous headroom and easy access. Every seat feels airy and comfortable, thanks to the EV9’s upright stance, large windows, and slim roof pillars that provide outstanding visibility.

The cabin experience is elevated even further by Kia’s attention to quietness. The EV9 is engineered to keep road and wind noise to a minimum, creating a serene environment for conversation or music. The ride quality strikes the perfect balance between smooth and composed, ideal for daily commutes or weekend escapes.

Elevated Comfort and Technology

Kia’s thoughtful approach to design shines in the EV9’s interior. Every trim level features soft-touch materials, premium finishes, and eco-conscious upholstery. All seats are wrapped in high-quality SynTex material, a durable and sustainable alternative to leather, offering both comfort and a refined appearance.

Even the entry-level EV9 includes amenities that enhance convenience and comfort. Standard features include tri-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a hands-free power liftgate. Stepping up to higher trims adds even more indulgence, such as a heated steering wheel, built-in rear window shades, and available second-row VIP Relaxation seats that recline and include extendable leg rests.

Technology is another area where the EV9 shines. The modern dashboard layout features dual 12.3-inch displays, one for digital driving information and the other for infotainment. A smaller screen between them displays climate settings, keeping the cabin organized and intuitive. Physical toggle switches below the screens allow for quick adjustments to temperature and media without needing to navigate menus.

Every EV9 comes equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, wireless charging, multiple USB ports, satellite radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot to keep everyone connected. The innovative Passenger Talk intercom system allows the driver to speak clearly to all three rows, a thoughtful touch for busy families. Proximity keyless entry and push-button start add extra convenience for on-the-go lifestyles.

Upper trims introduce even more advanced technology, including Kia’s Blind Spot View Monitor, a head-up display, 360-degree surround-view cameras, ambient interior lighting, and a 14-speaker Meridian premium audio system that fills the cabin with rich, detailed sound.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Every 2026 Kia EV9 is built with safety in mind. Kia includes a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features across all trims. Standard systems include forward collision avoidance with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high beams. There’s also a rear seat reminder and safe-exit assist, designed to prevent doors from opening into oncoming traffic.

Optional upgrades such as reverse collision avoidance and a digital rearview mirror enhance driver confidence even further. These technologies work seamlessly together, helping the EV9 provide peace of mind whether navigating downtown St. Louis streets or heading out on long highway drives.

Modern Design with a Sustainable Touch

The EV9’s interior design reflects a clean, modern aesthetic inspired by sustainability. Kia uses environmentally responsible materials throughout the cabin, including SynTex upholstery made from recycled plastics and reclaimed materials like discarded fishing nets. Despite its eco-friendly focus, the EV9’s interior feels distinctly upscale, with elegant color combinations such as light gray and black or rich black and brown.

The new Nightfall Edition introduces unique seating materials and finishes, while the GT-Line adds stylish yellow interior accents for a bold, contemporary look. The result is a cabin that feels fresh, sophisticated, and uncluttered, perfectly suited for modern drivers who appreciate both design and purpose.

Cargo and Versatility

Practicality remains a core strength of the 2026 Kia EV9. Even with all three rows in use, the SUV provides 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space, plenty for groceries, sports gear, or luggage. Folding the third row expands that space to over 43 cubic feet, and with both the second and third rows folded, the EV9 offers a generous 81.7 cubic feet of cargo capacity. That’s more than enough room for everything from camping equipment to furniture for a new apartment.

The rear seats fold flat with ease, and available power-folding third-row controls make the process simple. A hands-free power tailgate is standard, allowing quick access to the cargo area when your hands are full.

The Future of Family Driving

The 2026 Kia EV9 redefines what a three-row SUV can be. It combines advanced electric performance with the spaciousness, comfort, and practicality families need every day. From the thoughtfully designed cabin and quiet ride to its extensive technology and safety features, every detail has been carefully crafted for modern living.

For St. Louis families ready to embrace the next generation of driving, the Kia EV9 delivers everything an electric SUV should: power, presence, and premium sophistication.