2027 Hyundai Kona vs. 2027 Kia Seltos

The 2027 Hyundai Kona and 2027 Kia Seltos are compact SUVs designed for drivers who want practical dimensions without giving up useful passenger space, modern technology, available all-wheel drive, or strong fuel economy. Both models offer two engine choices, available AWD, advanced driver-assistance technology, and higher trims with substantially upgraded comfort and connectivity features.

The differences become clearer when the specifications are examined closely. The Kona offers a 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 147 horsepower or an available 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 190 horsepower. The Seltos uses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder as its standard engine and offers a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine producing 190 horsepower. Both can be equipped with all-wheel drive, but Hyundai makes HTRAC AWD available across all Kona trims, while Kia places AWD prominently within the Seltos X-Line range.

• 2027 Hyundai Kona: 147-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder or 190-horsepower 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder.
• 2027 Kia Seltos: 2.0-liter four-cylinder or available 190-horsepower 1.6-liter turbocharged engine.
• Kona AWD: HTRAC All-Wheel Drive is available on every trim.
• Seltos AWD: Available on X-Line configurations and paired with the turbocharged engine on the X-Line SX.
• Kona fuel economy: Up to 35 MPG highway in FWD configurations.
• Seltos fuel economy: Up to 33 MPG highway in standard-engine FWD configurations.

Key takeaway: The Kona and Seltos are closely matched on power, but their trim strategies differ. Kona makes AWD broadly available throughout the lineup, while Seltos uses the X-Line family to give its AWD models a stronger adventure-oriented identity.

2027 Hyundai Kona vs. 2027 Kia Seltos: The Key Differences

The strongest comparison starts with the areas that matter most in everyday driving: power, drivetrain choices, efficiency, interior usability, technology, and available capability. Neither SUV is simply a smaller version of a larger vehicle. Both are purpose-built compact crossovers intended to provide useful passenger and cargo space while remaining easy to maneuver in urban environments.

Hyundai describes Kona as a small SUV with room for five and available HTRAC AWD on every trim. Kia positions the 2027 Seltos as a compact SUV with best-in-class interior room, class-leading maximum cargo room, and an available turbocharged X-Line configuration with 190 horsepower and multi-terrain AWD.

• Choose Kona for: AWD availability across all trims and a strong combination of efficiency and available turbocharged performance.
• Choose Kona for: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard equipment.
• Choose Seltos for: A dedicated X-Line AWD range with available multi-terrain driving modes.
• Choose Seltos for: Available nearly 30-inch combined digital display configuration.
• Choose Seltos for: Available 190-horsepower turbocharged performance within the X-Line lineup.
• Both: Offer five-passenger seating, available AWD, modern driver assistance, and turbocharged power.

Key takeaway: The Kona emphasizes broad drivetrain availability and everyday versatility, while the Seltos places additional emphasis on interior room, X-Line design, and multi-terrain capability.

2027 Kona and Seltos Engines Deliver 190 Horsepower at the Top

The 2027 Kona offers two distinct gas powertrains. Its standard engine is a 2.0-liter MPI-Atkinson four-cylinder producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb.-ft. of torque. The available 1.6-liter Turbo-GDI four-cylinder raises output to 190 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque. The turbocharged engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the 2.0-liter engine uses an Intelligent Variable Transmission.

The 2027 Seltos also gives buyers two engine choices. Its standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder produces 147 horsepower, while the available 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder produces 190 horsepower. Kia specifically pairs the turbocharged engine with its X-Line SX AWD configuration, giving that version a distinctly different performance character from the standard-engine Seltos.

• Kona 2.0-liter: 147 horsepower and 132 lb.-ft. of torque.
• Kona 1.6-liter turbo: 190 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque.
• Kona turbo transmission: Eight-speed automatic with paddle shifters.
• Seltos 2.0-liter: 147 horsepower.
• Seltos 1.6-liter turbo: 190 horsepower.
• Seltos X-Line SX: Turbocharged engine with AWD.

Key takeaway: Both models reach 190 horsepower with their available turbocharged engines, making the turbo versions the natural choice for drivers who place greater importance on acceleration and responsive performance.

2027 Hyundai Kona vs. Kia Seltos Fuel Economy

The standard-engine versions of both SUVs are engineered for efficient daily transportation. Hyundai lists the 2027 Kona SE and SEL Sport at 28 MPG city, 35 MPG highway, and 31 MPG combined with FWD. With HTRAC AWD, those trims are rated at 26 MPG city, 29 MPG highway, and 27 MPG combined.

Kia lists the 2027 Seltos LX, S, and EX at 28 MPG city, 33 MPG highway, and 30 MPG combined. The X-Line S AWD is rated at 26 MPG city, 30 MPG highway, and 28 MPG combined, while the turbocharged X-Line SX AWD is listed at 24 MPG city, 30 MPG highway, and 26 MPG combined.

• Kona FWD: Up to 28 city/35 highway/31 combined MPG.
• Kona AWD: Up to 26 city/29 highway/27 combined MPG on SE and SEL Sport.
• Seltos FWD: Up to 28 city/33 highway/30 combined MPG with the standard engine.
• Seltos X-Line S AWD: 26 city/30 highway/28 combined MPG.
• Seltos X-Line SX AWD: 24 city/30 highway/26 combined MPG.
• Efficiency advantage: The Kona reaches a higher published maximum highway and combined rating in its FWD standard-engine configurations.

Key takeaway: The Kona has the higher published maximum fuel-economy figures, while the Seltos gives buyers a broader visual and capability distinction through its X-Line AWD configurations.

Does the 2027 Hyundai Kona Have All-Wheel Drive?

Yes. HTRAC All-Wheel Drive is available on every 2027 Kona trim. That is an important distinction because shoppers do not have to move into a specific adventure-themed model to access AWD. The system is available with both the standard 2.0-liter engine and the available 1.6-liter turbocharged engine.

Hyundai also uses an independent multi-link rear suspension on AWD Kona models, while FWD models use a torsion-beam rear suspension. The availability of AWD throughout the range gives buyers more flexibility when choosing trim and equipment.

• Kona SE: HTRAC AWD available.
• Kona SEL Sport: HTRAC AWD available.
• Kona SEL Premium: HTRAC AWD available.
• Kona Limited: HTRAC AWD available.
• AWD benefit: Provides an additional drivetrain option for changing road and weather conditions.
• AWD chassis: AWD Kona models use a multi-link rear suspension design.

Key takeaway: Every Kona trim can be configured with HTRAC AWD, giving the model a broader AWD strategy than many compact SUVs.

How Does the 2027 Kia Seltos Approach AWD?

The Seltos takes a more trim-specific approach to all-wheel drive. The X-Line S AWD includes AWD as standard, while Kia also offers a 190-horsepower turbocharged engine with the X-Line SX AWD. The X-Line range adds black exterior elements, exclusive 18-inch wheels, roof rails, and distinctive interior details.

The X-Line S AWD can also be equipped with a multi-terrain mode selector offering mud, snow, and sand settings. That feature gives the Seltos a more explicit focus on varied road surfaces than the standard configurations.

• X-Line S AWD: Standard all-wheel drive.
• X-Line S AWD: 18-inch black wheels and black exterior design elements.
• X-Line S AWD: Roof rails and exclusive X-Line seat trim.
• Available capability: Multi-terrain mode with mud, snow, and sand settings.
• X-Line SX AWD: Available 190-horsepower 1.6-liter turbocharged engine.
• X-Line SX AWD: Available 19-inch wheels and panoramic sunroof.

Key takeaway: Seltos uses the X-Line family to connect AWD with distinctive styling and terrain-focused equipment, while Kona makes AWD available throughout its entire trim structure.

2027 Kona vs. 2027 Seltos Interior Space

Both SUVs are designed to make five-passenger transportation practical without moving into a larger vehicle class. Hyundai describes Kona as spacious enough for five, while Kia specifically promotes the 2027 Seltos for best-in-class interior room and class-leading maximum cargo room.

The Seltos interior also emphasizes passenger comfort and flexibility. Available features include heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a memory driver's seat for up to two drivers, and Relaxation Mode. The Kona counters with a wide selection of available convenience and technology features as shoppers move into higher trims.

• Kona: Seating for up to five passengers.
• Seltos: Seating for up to five passengers.
• Seltos: Kia identifies interior room as a central strength of the model.
• Seltos: Available heated and ventilated front seats.
• Seltos: Available memory driver's seat for two drivers.
• Seltos: Available Relaxation Mode for the driver's seat.

Key takeaway: Both vehicles provide useful five-passenger interiors, with the Seltos placing particularly strong emphasis on interior volume and passenger comfort.

Which Has More Cargo Space: 2027 Kona or 2027 Seltos?

The manufacturer descriptions point to cargo utility as a notable strength for both vehicles, but Kia makes an especially direct claim for the Seltos, describing it as having class-leading maximum cargo room. Hyundai emphasizes Kona's spacious interior and flexibility for passenger and adventure gear.

Cargo usability is about more than a single maximum measurement. A compact SUV needs to accommodate groceries, luggage, outdoor equipment, work gear, and everyday belongings without becoming difficult to maneuver. Both models use a liftgate and folding rear seating to give owners greater flexibility when passenger and cargo needs change.

• Seltos: Kia identifies maximum cargo room as class-leading.
• Kona: Hyundai emphasizes passenger space and flexibility for adventure gear.
• Seltos: Available smart power liftgate.
• Seltos: Available hands-free smart power liftgate.
• Kona: Available hands-free smart liftgate with auto open on Limited.
• Both: Provide compact-SUV dimensions with flexible rear cargo space.

Key takeaway: Seltos has the stronger manufacturer-stated cargo-space claim, while both models are designed to balance compact exterior dimensions with practical cargo flexibility.

2027 Hyundai Kona Technology Features

The 2027 Kona provides a strong technology foundation across its lineup. Hyundai states that wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on every trim. Higher configurations add equipment such as a digital instrument cluster, available Surround View Monitor, Blind-Spot View Monitor, and hands-free smart liftgate functionality.

The available technology becomes particularly substantial on the Limited trim. Hyundai lists the Surround View Monitor and Blind-Spot View Monitor among its available equipment, giving drivers additional visual information when maneuvering or changing lanes.

• Wireless connectivity: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on every Kona trim.
• Driver information: Available digital instrument cluster.
• Parking assistance: Available Surround View Monitor.
• Lane-change awareness: Available Blind-Spot View Monitor.
• Convenience: Available hands-free smart liftgate with auto open.
• Performance controls: Available paddle shifters with the turbocharged powertrain.

Key takeaway: Kona puts wireless smartphone integration at the center of its technology package and adds advanced visibility features as buyers move through the lineup.

2027 Kia Seltos Technology and Connectivity

The 2027 Seltos takes a similarly comprehensive approach but pushes further into large-format digital displays. Kia states that its available digital cockpit provides nearly 30 inches of combined digital displays, including navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay, and wireless Android Auto.

Higher-end technology includes an available 360-degree Surround View Monitor, Blind-Spot View Monitor, wireless charging, and four standard USB-C ports. Kia also offers available Harman Kardon premium audio, a panoramic sunroof, and a memory driver's seat on selected configurations.

• Digital cockpit: Nearly 30 inches of combined available digital displays.
• Smartphone integration: Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto.
• Parking visibility: Available 360-degree Surround View Monitor.
• Blind-spot awareness: Available Blind-Spot View Monitor.
• Charging: Four standard USB-C ports and available wireless charging.
• Audio: Available Harman Kardon premium audio system.

Key takeaway: Seltos offers a particularly expansive technology package, with its available digital cockpit, surround-view camera, wireless connectivity, and convenience equipment concentrated in higher trims.

Which SUV Has the Better Safety and Driver Assistance Technology?

Both manufacturers provide extensive driver assistance technology designed to help with collision awareness, lane changes, parking, and highway driving. The important distinction is that these systems are designed as driver aids, not autonomous driving replacements.

Kia lists 13 collision-avoidance and safety-assistance features on the Seltos LX and adds systems such as Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist on higher trims. Available technology includes Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist, Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, and Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control.

• Seltos: 13 collision-avoidance and safety-assistance features listed on LX.
• Seltos: Available Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist.
• Seltos: Available Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist.
• Seltos: Available Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist.
• Seltos: Available Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist.
• Seltos: Available Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go and Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control.

Key takeaway: Both SUVs offer meaningful driver assistance technology, while the Seltos provides a particularly broad collection of collision avoidance and parking assistance systems on available configurations.

2027 Kona vs. Seltos for Highway Driving

Highway driving rewards a combination of fuel efficiency, stable handling, comfortable seating, useful driver information, and driver assistance technology. The Kona's available turbocharged engine produces 190 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque, while its FWD standard-engine configurations can reach 35 MPG highway.

The Seltos offers its own highway-oriented strengths. Its available Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go can help maintain a selected following distance, while Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control can adjust speed using navigation information when the appropriate system is equipped. The available digital cockpit also places navigation and vehicle information prominently in the driver's field of view.

• Kona: Up to 35 MPG highway with FWD on SE and SEL Sport.
• Kona: Available 190-horsepower turbocharged engine.
• Kona: Available HTRAC AWD.
• Seltos: Available Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go.
• Seltos: Available Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control.
• Seltos: Available nearly 30-inch combined digital cockpit.

Key takeaway: Kona has a clear efficiency advantage in its highest-rated FWD configurations, while Seltos offers a technology-rich approach to longer highway drives.

Which Is Better for City Driving: Kona or Seltos?

Both vehicles fit naturally into city driving because their compact SUV dimensions combine an elevated seating position with a relatively manageable footprint. The Kona's 34.8-foot curb-to-curb turning diameter supports maneuverability, while its available Blind-Spot View Monitor and Surround View Monitor can add useful visual information in crowded environments.

The Seltos brings its own urban advantages. Available parking sensors, Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist, a 360-degree Surround View Monitor, and a hands-free smart power liftgate can make everyday parking, loading, and maneuvering easier when properly equipped.

• Kona: 34.8-foot curb-to-curb turning diameter.
• Kona: Available Blind-Spot View Monitor.
• Kona: Available Surround View Monitor.
• Seltos: Available 360-degree Surround View Monitor.
• Seltos: Available front, rear, and side parking sensors.
• Seltos: Available hands-free smart power liftgate.

Key takeaway: Both are well suited to urban driving, with available camera and parking technologies adding useful assistance in tighter environments.

2027 Kona vs. Seltos: Which Offers the More Adventure-Oriented Configuration?

The Seltos has a particularly clear answer for shoppers who want an SUV with a more adventure-focused identity. The X-Line S AWD includes all-wheel drive, 18-inch black wheels, roof rails, black exterior elements, and available multi-terrain modes for mud, snow, and sand. The X-Line SX AWD adds the 190-horsepower turbocharged engine and available 19-inch wheels.

Kona approaches capability differently. HTRAC AWD is available on all four trims, and Hyundai describes the vehicle as capable of handling less-than-ideal terrain and conditions. This makes the Kona a flexible choice for drivers who want AWD without having to select a specialized appearance package.

• Seltos X-Line S AWD: Standard AWD.
• Seltos X-Line: Available multi-terrain mode with mud, snow, and sand settings.
• Seltos X-Line SX AWD: Available 190-horsepower turbocharged engine.
• Kona: HTRAC AWD available on every trim.
• Kona: AWD available with both engine choices.
• Both: Provide drivetrain choices suited to changing road conditions.

Key takeaway: Seltos has the more explicitly adventure-themed configuration, while Kona offers AWD as a broader lineup-wide option.

2027 Hyundai Kona vs. 2027 Kia Seltos: Which SUV Is Right for You?

The better choice depends on the balance of performance, efficiency, interior space, technology, and AWD availability that matters most. The Kona is especially compelling for shoppers who want a compact SUV with an efficient standard powertrain, available 190-horsepower turbocharged performance, HTRAC AWD across all trims, and standard wireless smartphone integration.

The Seltos stands out for its interior-room emphasis, class-leading maximum cargo-room claim, extensive available technology, and X-Line configurations. The X-Line S AWD provides standard AWD and available multi-terrain capability, while the X-Line SX AWD combines AWD with the 190-horsepower turbocharged engine.

• Choose the 2027 Kona if: You want HTRAC AWD available across every trim.
• Choose the Kona if: Maximum published FWD fuel economy is important, with up to 35 MPG highway.
• Choose the Kona if: You want standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on every trim.
• Choose the 2027 Seltos if: Interior and maximum cargo room are major priorities.
• Choose the Seltos if: You want a dedicated X-Line AWD configuration with multi-terrain modes.
• Choose the Seltos if: You want available nearly 30-inch combined digital displays and a broad selection of available technology.

Key takeaway: The Kona and Seltos are closely matched compact SUVs, but they emphasize different strengths. Kona offers broad AWD availability and strong efficiency, while Seltos puts greater emphasis on interior room, cargo utility, digital technology, and X-Line capability.

Why the 2027 Hyundai Kona Is Worth a Closer Look in Anniston

For drivers shopping for a compact SUV in Anniston, the 2027 Kona presents a straightforward combination of maneuverability, efficiency, available turbocharged power, and all-weather flexibility. The lineup does not require a specialized trim to access HTRAC AWD, and the available 190-horsepower turbocharged engine gives buyers a substantial performance step beyond the standard 147-horsepower engine.

The technology package is equally important. Wireless smartphone integration is standard across the lineup, while higher trims add advanced camera systems, Blind-Spot View Monitor, a hands-free smart liftgate, and other convenience features. The result is a compact SUV that can be configured around very different priorities without changing its fundamental character.

• 147-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder standard engine.
• Available 190-horsepower 1.6-liter turbocharged engine.
• Available HTRAC AWD on all four trims.
• Up to 35 MPG highway in specified FWD configurations.
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard on every trim.
• Available Blind-Spot View Monitor and Surround View Monitor.

Key takeaway: Kona gives compact-SUV shoppers a broad range of configurations while keeping AWD, efficient driving, turbocharged performance, and modern connectivity within the same model family.

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Frequently Asked Questions About the 2027 Hyundai Kona and Kia Seltos

Is the 2027 Hyundai Kona more powerful than the 2027 Kia Seltos?

The two models are evenly matched at the top of their engine ranges. The 2027 Kona's available 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder produces 190 horsepower, while the 2027 Seltos' available 1.6-liter turbocharged engine also produces 190 horsepower.

Does the 2027 Kona have AWD?

Yes. HTRAC All-Wheel Drive is available on all four 2027 Kona trims. It can be paired with either the standard 2.0-liter engine or available 1.6-liter turbocharged engine.

Does the 2027 Kia Seltos have AWD?

Yes. AWD is available on the Seltos lineup, including the X-Line S AWD and X-Line SX AWD. The X-Line S AWD also offers an available multi-terrain mode selector with mud, snow, and sand settings.

Which gets better gas mileage, the 2027 Kona or 2027 Seltos?

The Kona has the higher published maximum fuel-economy rating. The 2027 Kona SE and SEL Sport with FWD are rated at up to 28 MPG city, 35 MPG highway, and 31 MPG combined. The 2027 Seltos LX, S, and EX are rated at 28 MPG city, 33 MPG highway, and 30 MPG combined.

Does the 2027 Kona have a turbo engine?

Yes. The available Kona 1.6-liter Turbo-GDI four-cylinder produces 190 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque. It uses an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.

Does the 2027 Seltos have a turbo engine?

Yes. The available 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder produces 190 horsepower. Kia pairs it with the X-Line SX AWD configuration.

Which has more cargo space, the 2027 Kona or 2027 Seltos?

Kia specifically describes the 2027 Seltos as offering class-leading maximum cargo room. Hyundai emphasizes the Kona's flexible interior and space for passengers and adventure gear. Exact cargo measurements should be compared by configuration when evaluating the two vehicles.

Which has better technology, the 2027 Kona or 2027 Seltos?

Both offer extensive technology. Kona includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard across every trim and offers available Blind-Spot View Monitor and Surround View Monitor. Seltos offers an available digital cockpit with nearly 30 inches of combined displays, wireless smartphone integration, available 360-degree Surround View Monitor, Blind-Spot View Monitor, wireless charging, and four standard USB-C ports.

Which is better for outdoor driving, Kona or Seltos?

The Seltos has a more explicitly adventure-oriented configuration through the X-Line S AWD, which includes AWD and offers a multi-terrain mode selector with mud, snow, and sand settings. The Kona provides a broader AWD strategy because HTRAC AWD is available across all four trims.

How many people can the 2027 Kona and 2027 Seltos seat?

Both the 2027 Kona and 2027 Seltos seat up to five passengers.

Which has the stronger standard engine?

Both standard engines produce 147 horsepower. The Kona uses a 2.0-liter MPI-Atkinson four-cylinder, while the Seltos uses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder. Their available turbocharged engines also match at 190 horsepower.

Is the 2027 Kona good for daily driving?

Yes. The Kona combines compact dimensions, a 34.8-foot turning diameter, available HTRAC AWD, efficient FWD configurations, available turbocharged power, and standard wireless smartphone integration. That combination makes it well suited to commuting, errands, highway travel, and changing road conditions.

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