Compact, Capable, and Completely Unexpected: The 2027 Kia Seltos Leaves "Entry-Level" Behind

The compact SUV market has changed dramatically over the last decade, and the 2027 Kia Seltos is leading that transformation. Once considered the starting point for drivers entering the SUV world, compact crossovers are now expected to deliver premium comfort, advanced technology, confident performance, and standout styling. The redesigned Seltos embraces every one of those expectations, proving that choosing Kia's smallest SUV no longer means settling for less.

Available now at Kia dealerships, the 2027 Seltos brings a fresh design, upgraded features, and exciting powertrain choices that make it one of the most compelling vehicles in its segment. Whether shoppers are purchasing their first SUV or downsizing from a larger model, the latest Seltos offers a refined driving experience that feels anything but entry level here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis. 

Redefining the Compact SUV Experience

The 2027 Seltos represents the next evolution of Kia's award-winning SUV lineup. While its bold styling draws inspiration from larger Kia models like the Telluride, the Seltos establishes a personality all its own. Rugged proportions, confident body lines, and increased ground clearance create an athletic appearance that's equally at home in city traffic or on weekend adventures.

As the lineup continues to evolve, the Seltos steps confidently into a role once filled by the beloved Kia Soul, offering drivers a practical crossover with added versatility, available all-wheel drive, and a more adventurous spirit.

Today's compact SUV shoppers expect far more than basic transportation, and Kia has answered that demand by delivering premium features, impressive technology, and everyday practicality in one stylish package.

Premium Features Without the Premium Compromises

One of the most exciting aspects of the 2027 Seltos is how generously equipped it can be. Upper trims offer amenities once reserved almost exclusively for larger luxury SUVs, creating a driving experience that feels upscale from the moment the doors open.

Available features include heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a panoramic sunroof, a Harman Kardon® premium audio system, a Surround View Monitor, a memory driver's seat, a hands-free power liftgate, and standard all-wheel drive on select trims.

This thoughtful combination of comfort, convenience, and technology allows drivers to enjoy many of Kia's most desirable features without feeling the need to move into a larger vehicle. The result is a compact SUV that delivers exceptional value while maintaining the premium refinement shoppers increasingly expect.

Turbocharged Confidence Comes Standard on X-Line SX

Drivers looking for a little extra excitement will appreciate the available 1.6-liter turbocharged engine found in the X-Line SX trim. Producing 190 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, this responsive powertrain pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive to deliver smooth acceleration and confident performance in a wide variety of driving conditions.

Whether merging onto the interstate, navigating busy city streets, or exploring scenic back roads, the turbocharged Seltos offers responsive power that makes every trip more enjoyable. It strikes an excellent balance between spirited performance and everyday efficiency, making it an appealing option for drivers who enjoy an engaging drive without sacrificing practicality.

A Hybrid Future Expands the Lineup

The excitement surrounding the 2027 Seltos extends beyond its turbocharged performance. Kia has also announced an upcoming hybrid model that will expand the SUV's appeal even further.

The new Seltos Hybrid will pair a 1.6-liter gasoline engine with an electric motor and an innovative rear eAxle all-wheel-drive system, giving shoppers another compelling option within the lineup. While official performance figures will be released closer to launch, the hybrid is expected to deliver an impressive combination of efficiency, capability, and everyday usability.

Offering both a lively turbocharged model and an efficient hybrid gives shoppers the flexibility to choose the driving experience that best matches their lifestyle. Whether performance or fuel economy takes priority, the 2027 Seltos lineup is designed to provide a solution without compromise.

Ready to Stand Out in a Competitive Segment

Compact SUVs remain one of the fastest-growing segments in the automotive industry, and the 2027 Kia Seltos arrives ready to compete with confidence. Its combination of advanced technology, spacious interior, available turbocharged performance, and future hybrid option positions it as an outstanding choice for shoppers comparing today's most popular compact crossovers.

Rather than simply checking the expected boxes, the Seltos raises the standard by delivering premium appointments, impressive versatility, and modern styling in a package that feels far more sophisticated than many shoppers might expect from a compact SUV. It is a clear example of how Kia continues to elevate every vehicle in its lineup while giving drivers more value, more capability, and more reasons to get excited about every journey.

One look at the 2027 Kia Seltos and its family resemblance is unmistakable. Borrowing styling inspiration from the award-winning Telluride, the redesigned Seltos features a more confident front fascia, bold lighting signatures, and sculpted body lines that give it an upscale, adventurous appearance.

The refreshed design also includes a slightly longer wheelbase and increased overall length, creating a more planted stance while enhancing passenger comfort inside. Available X-Line models build on that rugged personality with distinctive exterior accents, unique wheels, and styling elements that encourage drivers to venture beyond the daily commute.

The result is a compact SUV that looks every bit as capable as it feels, offering a modern design that stands out whether it's parked downtown or headed toward the next weekend destination.

A Cabin Designed Around Comfort and Connectivity

Step inside the 2027 Seltos and it quickly becomes clear that Kia approached every inch of the interior with the driver in mind. Spacious seating, premium materials, and intuitive technology combine to create an environment that feels welcoming on both short errands and extended road trips.

A standard 12.3-inch touchscreen serves as the centerpiece of the cabin, providing crisp graphics and seamless wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration. Available features such as heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, a Harman Kardon® premium audio system, a Surround View Monitor, a power liftgate, and a memory driver's seat elevate the experience even further.

The cabin also offers impressive passenger and cargo space for a compact SUV, making the Seltos equally comfortable carrying friends, family, groceries, sports equipment, or luggage for a weekend getaway. Every detail reflects Kia's commitment to delivering premium comfort in a practical everyday package.

Technology That Inspires Confidence

Beyond comfort and convenience, the 2027 Seltos is designed to help drivers feel confident wherever the road leads. Its advanced infotainment system keeps important information close at hand, while available driver assistance technologies help support greater awareness during everyday driving.

Whether navigating busy city streets, cruising on the interstate, or exploring unfamiliar destinations, the Seltos combines intelligent technology with thoughtful engineering to make every journey more enjoyable. Kia continues to refine its vehicles with lessons learned across the lineup, giving drivers confidence that every new generation benefits from years of innovation and real-world development.

Changing Expectations for Compact SUVs

The arrival of the 2027 Seltos reflects a much larger shift in today's automotive market. Drivers no longer expect an entry-level SUV to be basic transportation. Instead, they want sophisticated styling, premium amenities, advanced safety, and engaging performance, regardless of vehicle size.

Kia has embraced that evolution by giving the Seltos many of the same qualities shoppers admire in larger SUVs throughout the lineup. Rather than asking buyers to compromise because they're choosing a compact model, the Seltos delivers an ownership experience that feels polished, refined, and thoughtfully equipped from the very beginning.

That philosophy has helped Kia build lasting relationships with drivers who often return to the brand when it's time for their next vehicle. By offering premium craftsmanship and modern technology across every segment, Kia continues to redefine what customers should expect from a compact SUV.

Built for Everyday Adventures

One of the greatest strengths of the 2027 Kia Seltos is its remarkable versatility. It feels equally at home navigating morning commutes, tackling weekend road trips, or loading up for outdoor adventures. Its elevated driving position provides excellent visibility, while available all-wheel drive offers added confidence when weather or road conditions become less predictable.

Drivers looking for a vehicle that adapts to an active lifestyle will appreciate how effortlessly the Seltos balances efficiency, capability, and everyday practicality. Whether it's a quick trip across town or a spontaneous weekend escape, the Seltos is ready for wherever life leads next.

Experience the 2027 Kia Seltos Today

The 2027 Kia Seltos demonstrates just how far compact SUVs have come. With its bold styling, available turbocharged performance, premium interior, innovative technology, and upcoming hybrid option, it delivers an ownership experience that exceeds expectations at every turn.

Visit Jim Butler Kia today to explore the redesigned 2027 Kia Seltos in person. Compare available trims, discover its impressive list of premium features, and take a personalized test drive to experience firsthand why this remarkable SUV is redefining what drivers should expect from a compact crossover. Test drive it before you decide. 

Once you're behind the wheel, it's easy to see why the Seltos keeps outpacing the competition in its class! 

Luxury, Power, or Practicality? The 2025 Telluride and Santa Fe Go Head-to-Head

 

The midsize SUV segment is packed with options, but few models have earned as much praise as the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Santa Fe. Both SUVs offer spacious interiors, cutting-edge technology, and strong reputations for reliability—plus, they come backed by an impressive 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

The Hyundai Santa Fe, introduced in 2001, has been a trusted choice for families for over two decades. The Kia Telluride, on the other hand, made a bold entrance in 2019 and quickly became a favorite for its rugged styling and upscale feel. While both SUVs share a lineage, they cater to different drivers—whether you prioritize adventure-ready capability or refined family comfort here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis.

In this guide, we’ll break down key differences in pricing, performance, comfort, and reliability to help you decide which SUV best suits your lifestyle. Stay tuned for the latest insights, as we continually update our analysis to reflect the most current information available.

Winner: 2025 Kia Telluride

Reliability

A vehicle’s predicted reliability is a key factor when considering long-term ownership. Ratings from J.D. Power offer insight into how well a model is expected to perform over time, with scores ranging from 91-100 (Best), 81-90 (Great), 70-80 (Average), and below 69 (Fair).

The 2025 Kia Telluride earns a solid 86, reflecting a strong reputation for dependability. Meanwhile, the Hyundai Santa Fe comes in slightly lower at 79, signaling a decent but less impressive reliability score.

Both SUVs come with a five-year/60,000-mile limited warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, ensuring peace of mind. However, the Telluride’s higher reliability rating gives it the edge for buyers prioritizing long-term durability.

Seat Comfort

Winner: 2025 Kia Telluride

For those who value spacious and comfortable seating, the Kia Telluride delivers. This three-row SUV accommodates up to eight passengers, with ample headroom and legroom in every row—something that’s especially appreciated on long drives. Premium features like heated and ventilated seats add to its upscale appeal.

The Hyundai Santa Fe also offers a three-row layout but with a maximum seating capacity of seven. While its seats are well-cushioned, the Telluride provides more space and superior comfort, particularly in the third row.

For families or anyone needing roomy, passenger-friendly accommodations, the Telluride is the clear choice.

Cargo Space

Winner: 2025 Kia Telluride

When it comes to hauling gear, luggage, or groceries, the Kia Telluride stands out with its generous cargo capacity:

• 21 cubic feet behind the third row

• 46 cubic feet behind the second row

• A massive 87 cubic feet with both rear rows folded flat

Convenience features like a hands-free power liftgate make loading easier, especially when your hands are full.

The Hyundai Santa Fe offers a respectable 40.5 cubic feet behind the second row and 79.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. While its boxy shape helps maximize space, it still falls short of the Telluride’s superior cargo-hauling capability.

For those who need versatility and ample storage, the 2025 Kia Telluride is the better pick.

Interior Quality

Winner: 2025 Kia Telluride

Step inside the 2025 Kia Telluride, and you’ll immediately notice its upscale feel—almost like a luxury SUV without the luxury price tag. Premium materials like quilted leather upholstery, real wood, and metal trim give the cabin a high-end atmosphere, even on mid-level trims. Soft-touch surfaces and a well-thought-out design add to its refined, comfortable interior.

The Hyundai Santa Fe, while modern and well-appointed, doesn’t quite match the Telluride’s premium feel. It offers soft-touch materials, contrast stitching, and wood-look accents on higher trims, but the overall ambiance leans more functional than upscale.

For buyers looking for a high-end cabin experience at a competitive price, the Telluride is the clear winner in interior quality.

Interior Features

Winner: 2025 Kia Telluride

The Telluride is loaded with features that enhance convenience, usability, and technology. A standard 12.3-inch touchscreen provides an intuitive interface, while physical controls for key functions ensure easy operation—even while driving.

The Hyundai Santa Fe also boasts a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, but its touch-sensitive controls can be less responsive than the Telluride’s traditional buttons. While futuristic in design, they may take some getting used to.

For those who prioritize a user-friendly, feature-packed SUV, the Telluride once again leads the way.

Off-Road Capability

Winner: 2025 Kia Telluride

When adventure calls, the 2025 Kia Telluride answers with confidence. The X-Pro trims are specifically designed for off-road excursions, featuring higher ground clearance, standard all-wheel drive, a self-leveling rear suspension, and LED fog lights. These upgrades ensure that the Telluride can handle rough terrain while maintaining a comfortable ride on pavement.

The Hyundai Santa Fe XRT, on the other hand, adds rugged styling but lacks the serious off-road enhancements needed for true trail capability. Without increased ground clearance or specialized suspension tuning, it’s best suited for light off-road duty rather than tackling more demanding landscapes.

For drivers who want an SUV ready for real adventure, the Telluride’s off-road-focused features make it the superior choice.

Towing Capacity

Winner: 2025 Kia Telluride

If you need a midsize SUV with strong towing capabilities, the Telluride delivers. When properly equipped, it can tow up to 5,000 pounds, making it ideal for small campers, boats, jet skis, or lightweight trailers.

The Hyundai Santa Fe comes close, with a maximum towing capacity of 4,500 pounds, but it falls just short of the Telluride’s more robust capability. While both SUVs can handle weekend getaways, the Telluride offers extra strength for heavier loads.

For those who frequently tow gear for outdoor adventures or road trips, the Telluride stands out as the more capable option.

Ride and Handling

Winner: 2025 Kia Telluride

The 2025 Kia Telluride strikes a near-perfect balance between ride comfort and responsive handling. Its precise steering makes maneuvering through city streets or winding back roads feel effortless, while the well-tuned suspension smooths out bumps and rough pavement, ensuring a comfortable ride for all passengers.

In contrast, the Hyundai Santa Fe prioritizes a softer ride, which can make it feel less agile. While it remains composed through corners, its light steering lacks the engaging feel that the Telluride provides.

For drivers looking for an SUV that combines comfort with confident handling, the Telluride remains the better choice.

Final Verdict: The Better SUV Is...

Winner: 2025 Kia Telluride

After comparing key factors, the Kia Telluride comes out on top, delivering more space, better road manners, and a more premium feel than the Santa Fe.

Experience the ultimate blend of comfort, capability, and adventure with the 2025 Kia Telluride! Whether you're packing up for a family road trip or towing your gear for a weekend getaway, the Telluride delivers spacious luxury, smooth handling, and rugged power in one unbeatable package. Step inside its premium cabin, explore its cutting-edge technology, and feel the confidence of its off-road-ready performance. 

Don’t just take our word for it—schedule your test drive today and see why the Telluride is built for every journey!

Kia Niro Displays Satisfaction-Gleaning Domination in J.D. Power Electric Vehicle Ownership Study for 2nd Year Running

Here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis as the spring approaches and all our customers are ready for news regarding new models, the oncoming changes regarding innovations in electrification have provided even more exciting things to report on for the season! Our Kia Niro EV has now taken top honors in the J.D. Power 2022 Electric Vehicle Experience Ownership Study mass-market category for the second year in a row. J.D. Power surveyed more than 8,000 electric vehicle owners on critical factors that include battery range, cost-of-ownership, service experience, styling and driving enjoyment to gauge satisfaction.

We have always prided ourselves on offering a diverse line of vehicles with convenient services that always provided an A+ ownership experience. We have now enjoyed consecutive wins in the EVX Ownership Study that reinforces our leadership as we now prepare to introduce additional electric passenger vehicles, MPVs, and SUVs across several areas by 2027. The highly-publicized “Plan S” strategy promises to deliver 14 new EVs globally across multiple categories by 2027. The Niro EV will now open many various possibilities for drivers who already love our assortment of popular crossovers, but are also seeking the benefits of electric energy.

Now that the Niro has dominated for two years in a row for highest ownership satisfaction, the stage is set to fully exceed EV owner expectations, and we now know that we will consistently and confidently claim to give EV owners the best experience in current existence. Boasting a look that is so much better than more bland EV box shapes, a strong roster of standard equipment, and an all-electric range of around 239 miles, it also added a 10.3-inch touchscreen to replace the previous 8.0-inch base unit.

Also now coming with built-in navigation, a Harman/Kardon audio system, and SiriusXM satellite radio, the onboard electric motor produces 201 horsepower, which is sent through the front wheels by a one-speed direct-drive transmission. The Niro EV gets to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds and can be driven with just one pedal thanks to regenerative braking. There are four different levels of regeneration that can be toggled between using the steering-wheel-mounted paddles. 

The 240-volt connection is said to fully charge the battery in about 9 hours, and the standard DC fast-charge capability can provide an 80 percent charge in just one hour with a 100-kW connection. Upgrading to the EX Premium trim adds on features such as ventilated front seats, a power sunroof, and wireless charging. The Car and Driver staff were able to fit 18 carry-ons behind the front seats, and enjoyed the massive selling point of the 10-year/100,000 – mile powertrain warranty.

2023 Kia Niro with a Signature Tiger-Faced Design!

The 2023 Kia Niro had its first official reveal just a few months ago as an eco-friendly crossover! At the time, there was not as much information provided about its all-important technical specifications on deck. The Carbuzz.com staff now have provided details on everything that will be expected, including safety features, powertrain choices, and interior elements. This next generation of the Niro has been built from the ground up to fulfill the needs of consumers on the hunt for a planet-saving variety of cars with a minimalist approach. 

The crossover’s outside proudly displays the latest generation of the Tiger Face design which first saw its preview with the 2019 HabiNiro concept. The front now features a pair of “heartbeat” design daytime running lights to create a contemporary look while a skid plate and plastic cladding help. At the rear, a new pair of vertical LED taillights are now installed next to a simple tailgate design, which has a stark contrast with a heartbeat-shaped rear reflector and a lower bumper with an integrated skid plate. 

You can select from 9 colors with six contrasting shades to doll up the C-Pillars, and there are also 3 options for the cladding. You can dress up the interior in your choice of Charcoal, Medium Gray, Petrol, or Light Warm Gray. The dashboard’s key feature has a 10.25-inch panoramic display that incorporates the infotainment screen and digital instrument cluster, an integrated infotainment screen, and a set of buttons for the climate controls. 

The trunk capacity is rated now at 15.9 cubic feet, a .6 cubic ft increase over the previous generation, with a hefty dose of success granted to the removal of the 12-volt battery out of the wheelhouse. The Niro can be enjoyed with a hybrid-electric version on top of a fully battery-electric vehicle or plug-in hybrid. All these options drive power to the front wheels and benefits from the Green Zone Drive Mode’s electric-only drive operations that task zero-emissions mobility in select environments. The HEV also features the 1.6-liter 4-cylinder gas engine now rated at 104 horsepower and 106 lb-ft of torque. It’s mated to a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, boasting a completely new suspension and steering system.

Keeping the passenger’s consistent safety in mind, the Niro utilizes a high-strength lightweight body that features a multi-load front impact structure. The second-generation model ships standard with our all-new DriveWise intelligent Advanced Driver Assistance System. It features front and blind-spot collision avoidance, high-beam and lane-keeping assist, rearview monitoring, and front and rear park distance warning. 

With the addition of amazing NFC technology, drivers can now unlock and start the vehicle without needing a fob, and the built-in front and rear cameras will also provide support for a dashcam function for more convenience. The SUV with the perfect size and stance can now be all yours! We will stand behind our traditional warranty coverage and years of expertise making up this award-winning and highly practical choice for Missouri roads in 2022! 

2022 Kia Telluride SX V6 Wows Outdoor Set with Class-Leading Fuel Economy Stats!

The 2022 Kia Telluride has claimed a top spot in a variety of bloggers’ top lists due to its spacious cabin, large cargo hold, and offerings of sleek technology. Snagging a top spot in U.S. News and World Report’s review, it has a 10.25-inch infotainment system, dual-zone climate control, and highway driving assist now standard as brand-new additions for the year. What do drivers love most about the Telluride based on first glance? Its quality materials inside, user-friendly features, and roomy seating for up to 8 across 3 included rows.

Very sharp graphics and simple-to-navigate menus make this interface easy to operate during the daily drive. There are six USB ports onboard along with voice recognition to make every single trip simple and accessible. Other available features include the universal garage door opener, 64-color ambient interior lighting, and dual-pane sunroof. For a midsize SUV, the cargo room is exceptional, possessing 21 cubic feet of space behind the third-row seats. If you fold them down, there are 46 cubic feet available for groceries, clubs, sleeping bags, etc. 

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave this LATCH system the second-highest rating of Acceptable for its ease of use and for each tether anchor being very easy to find. Easily jumping ahead of the competition here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis and snagging up the 2020 SUV of the Year award from Motor Trend. They first off claimed that no one can upend the new car status quo “quite the way Kia does”. The Telluride is pleasing to the eye from the inside and out; it completely shakes up the pre-conceived notion that bargain-basement plastics are not the trait that any affordable brand should be known for.

All 2022 Tellurides are equipped with a 291-hp 3.8-liter naturally aspirated V6 that is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, and AWD is available on every trim level. The EX trim level adds the bonus props of LED dome lights, an 8-way power-adjustable driver seat, heated front seats, and a wireless device charger. EX and SX models offer power-folding side mirrors, an 8-way power-adjustable passenger seat, and a hands-free power liftgate. If you are looking for premium interior space and towing ability, the Telluride’s larger size lines it up much better against rivals such as the Honda Pilot, Chevy Traverse, and Subaru Ascent.

During road testing, the Telluride was at the top of the standings for 5 separate internet publications right off the bat! Its refined driving experience, user-friendly controls, and a large amount of cargo room deem it a winner in a world that is heavily populated by vehicles that just can’t move the meter anywhere over average. Big, bold, and still the very best three-row family SUV in its class. The Telluride cashes in repeatedly on handling much smaller than its initially-conceived bulk’s first appearance would suggest.