• Kia presents three major debuts at the 2026 New York International Auto Show, addressing a broad spectrum of customer requirements
• All-new Seltos – a more spacious, more capable compact SUV with expanded interior space, advanced connectivity, and three powertrain options, including a new hybrid variant
• The EV3 compact electric SUV brings EV9-inspired design, fast charging, and up to 320 miles of range to a wider audience
• PV5 WAV concept, an all-electric, wheelchair-accessible taxi developed with BraunAbility, designed to advance sustainable and inclusive urban mobility

Kia has unveiled three key models at the 2026 New York International Auto Show, demonstrating its commitment to expanding customer choice across internal combustion, hybrid, and fully electric vehicles, while advancing inclusive mobility solutions for future transportation needs.

Making their North American debuts are the all-new 2027 Kia Seltos, the EV3 compact electric SUV, and the PV5 WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle) concept. Together, they reflect Kia’s evolving product strategy, combining practical, technology-led vehicles with forward-looking mobility solutions designed to meet a wide range of customer requirements.

The three models form part of a wider display of 21 vehicles showcased at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in Manhattan, including key nameplates such as Telluride, Sportage, and EV6. The exhibition highlights Kia’s continued investment in the North American market and its ambition to strengthen its presence across multiple segments.

By presenting a mix of established core models, new electrified offerings and innovative mobility concepts, Kia is reinforcing its strategy of delivering accessible, flexible, and sustainable mobility solutions tailored to regional market demands.

Seungkyu (Sean) Yoon, President and CEO of Kia North America and Kia America, said, “Kia is rapidly expanding hybrid production across our SUV lineup, increasing production with every new model launch and building toward a full lineup of SUV hybrids by the end of this year. With Sportage Hybrid production set to begin at our Georgia Metaplant in late May, we’re continuing to bring more diverse options closer to customers across the U.S.”

All-new Kia Seltos

The all-new 2027 Kia Seltos makes its North American debut as a significantly enhanced evolution of Kia’s compact SUV, designed to elevate expectations in the segment through increased space, expanded capability, and advanced technology.

Building on the success of the first-generation model, the new Seltos is larger, wider, and more refined, delivering improved passenger comfort and cargo flexibility. Increased overall length and a longer wheelbase contribute to greater rear legroom and enhanced interior packaging, while a more upright design improves outward visibility and reinforces its SUV character.

Exterior Design: The Authentic Modern SUV

The Seltos is the latest model to benefit from Kia’s Opposites United design philosophy, bringing together contrasting elements of nature and humanity to create thoughtful, expressive designs. The new Seltos also takes styling cues from the flagship Telluride SUV to carve out its own legacy as a small SUV that embodies a dynamic and energetic persona. Amber DRLs frame the front fascia, while bold angles and clean lines combine with flush door handles to deliver a strong distinctive presence.

The standard wheels are 16-inch alloys, while the Seltos X-Line 2.0L comes with larger 18-inch alloys and the X-Line 1.6T wears 19-inch wheels. X-Line trim also features unique bumpers and side sills with Piano Black trim and dark gun metal accents, underscoring its distinctive persona.

Interior Design: Functionally Sophisticated

Inside, the Seltos adopts a more sophisticated and technology-focused cabin layout inspired by larger Kia models. A panoramic digital interface – featuring dual 12.3-inch displays and an available climate display – forms the centerpiece of the interior, supported by Kia’s Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) system with over-the-air update capability. Available features such as in-car streaming, customizable display themes, and a generative AI assistant further enhance connectivity and usability.

The all-new Seltos also introduces features typically associated with higher segments, including available Surround View Monitor, Blind-Spot View Monitor, memory power driver’s seat, and a panoramic sunroof. These enhancements are complemented by a clean, intuitive control layout that blends touch and physical interfaces for ease of use.

Cargo capacity and everyday usability have also been improved, with increased luggage space and flexible storage solutions such as adjustable load floors and integrated cargo organization systems. Together, these enhancements make the Seltos a versatile companion for both urban and outdoor lifestyles.

Seltos Powertrains: Three Ways to Adventure 

Powertrain choice is a key strength of the new Seltos. For the first time, it will be offered with three distinct options: a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine, a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine, and a newly introduced hybrid powertrain. This makes Seltos one of the few vehicles in its segment to offer such a diverse range of propulsion systems.

The hybrid model combines a 1.6-liter engine with an electrified system designed to deliver improved efficiency and an EV-like driving experience. It also introduces available electric all-wheel drive (e-AWD), providing enhanced traction and performance when required. Meanwhile, the turbocharged engine offers increased power output, while available Multi-Mode AWD and up to 8.1 inches of ground clearance reinforce the vehicle’s capability across a variety of driving conditions.

The gasoline-powered models are expected to go on sale in the United States in the second quarter of 2026, with the hybrid variant scheduled to follow later in the year.

All-new 2027 Kia EV3

The Kia EV3 makes its North American debut as a compact electric SUV designed to broaden access to electric mobility, combining advanced technology, practical range, and everyday usability in a right-sized package.

Engaging on the Outside

As the most accessible model in Kia’s expanding EV lineup, the EV3 incorporates the brand’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy and features Kia’s signature ‘Star Map’ DRL concept with standard small-cube LED projector headlamps. The vertically arranged lights emphasize the EV3’s broad front-end, while the horizontally configured lights underscore the latest interpretation of Kia’s Tiger Face, giving the EV3 an expressive, futuristic look and a persona that exudes EV9-like boldness.

The aerodynamic profile combines short overhangs and a sloping roof that gives a ‘floating’ illusion. Flush-type roof rails are standard (bridge-type roof rails are optional). The roofline leads back to the combination taillamps that reflect the Star Map design at the front. Hidden rear door handles lend to the EV3’s clean side view similar to EV9.

Space, Comfort and Utility Inside

Inside, the EV3 offers a spacious, flexible, and home-like cabin designed to meet the needs of a wide range of customers. A panoramic display – comprising dual 12.3-inch screens and a climate display – forms the core of the interior, delivering a highly connected user experience. The layout emphasizes simplicity and practicality, with flexible storage solutions and a clean, open design.

The driver and front passenger area features a clean and open layout with an open center console that features retractable cupholders to allow for flexible storage for larger items, along with both open and covered storage compartments.

Dual-zone Fully Automatic Temperature Control (FATC), optional heated and ventilated front seats are fitted as standard, while rear-seat passengers can enjoy standard features such as seat backs that recline by up to 39 degrees.

The EV3’s cargo area delivers on roominess and utility thanks to 60/40-split flat-folding rear seats, a generously sized cargo area, a standard two-position luggage board with underfloor storage, plus a frunk. An optional Smart Power Tailgate is also available.

Electrified Power and Performance

Built on Kia’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the EV3 is available with two battery options: a standard 58.3 kWh unit and a larger 81.4 kWh battery. These configurations provide an estimated range of up to 320 miles on select trims, making the EV3 a practical choice for both daily commuting and longer journeys.

Fast-charging capability enables the battery to charge from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 29 minutes under optimal conditions, supporting convenient long-distance travel. A native NACS charging port and Plug and Charge functionality further simplify the charging experience by enabling seamless access to compatible networks.

The EV3 also introduces a range of advanced features designed to enhance efficiency and usability. These include Kia’s i-Pedal 3.0 system for one-pedal driving, an adaptive Smart Regeneration System to optimize energy recovery, and available Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, allowing the vehicle to supply power to external devices.

Packed with Convenience, Tech and Connectivity Features

Connectivity and in-car technology are central to the EV3 experience. The Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) supports over-the-air updates and a range of digital services, including streaming content, gaming, and productivity applications. A voice-recognition-based AI assistant enables more natural interaction between driver and vehicle, while features such as Digital Key 2.0 allow smartphone-based vehicle access and control.

Advanced driver assistance systems further enhance safety and convenience, with features such as Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Highway Driving Assist 2 and Remote Smart Parking Assist available across the lineup.

The 2027 Kia EV3 will be available in five trim levels, Light, Wind, Land, GT-Line, and GT, and it will go on sale in late 2026. Pricing for the North American market will be announced closer to the EV3’s on-sale date.

PV5 WAV concept

Also unveiled in New York was the PV5 Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) concept, an all-electric wheelchair-accessible vehicle developed in collaboration with leading WAV conversion company BraunAbility, demonstrating the company’s commitment to creating more inclusive and sustainable mobility solutions.

Based on Kia’s PBV (Platform Beyond Vehicle) strategy, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant PV5-based concept is designed as a taxi and rideshare solution that addresses both environmental and accessibility challenges. The vehicle combines a dedicated electric platform with accessibility-focused design, including a low step height and optimized entry for wheelchair users.

The concept has been developed from the outset with real-world production feasibility in mind. The PV5 platform that underpins the concept has been engineered to support vehicle conversions, helping reduce the complexity of modifications while improving quality and cost efficiency for operators and conversion partners.

Sangdae Kim, Executive Vice President and Head of PBV Business Division at Kia Corporation, said: “Kia’s collaboration with BraunAbility benefits those involved, expanding the existing product portfolios of both companies in the U.S. market, while aiming to offer greater quality and choice to vehicle operators and improved mobility to WAV users.”

Craig Schrimsher, BraunAbility Americas President, added: “For years, New York has been told it has to choose between cleaner vehicles and accessibility. The PV5 WAV is proof that the same taxi can deliver both, by combining Kia’s dedicated EV platform with BraunAbility’s wheelchair-accessible design leadership.”

Kia and BraunAbility have reimagined taxi and rideshare vehicles with a focus on improved mobility for drivers, passengers, and wheelchair users. Features include integrated wheelchair securement systems, including tiedowns and occupant restraints designed to support a consistent and safe user experience. The layout is intended to improve usability not only for wheelchair users, but also for drivers and passengers in urban mobility environments.

Development of the PV5 WAV concept has been informed by feedback from wheelchair users, mobility advocates, and industry stakeholders. Building on this input, Kia and BraunAbility plan to expand real-world evaluation in New York. Collaboration with local authorities, fleet operators, and disability organizations will help refine the concept further.

By combining zero-emissions capability with enhanced accessibility, the PV5 WAV concept highlights Kia’s vision for future mobility solutions that are both environmentally responsible and socially inclusive.

*Note to editors: All specifications quoted refer to US market Kia vehicles only.