Kia Jamaica danced up a storm as it launched the all-new 2027 Kia Seltos on Saturday, September 5, at the Sygnus Parking Lot, One Belmont, New Kingston.

“Kia Jamaica is elated to have the 2027 Kia Seltos here. It’s an amazing vehicle. It’s definitely going to pump a lot more life and activity into the brand,” Kevin Jackson, senior sales manager, Kia Jamaica, told the Jamaica Observer’s weekly Auto magazine.

The subcompact SUV has been a popular one for Kia locally since its introduction, and Jackson expects the same for this second-generation model.

“It’s actually been our top-selling model, and with this new refreshed shape I expect it to dominate the market again,” he said.

From left: Kevin Jackson, sales manager, Kia Jamaica; Damien Kerr, general manager, Oxford Road; Theresa Higgins Edwards, senior marketing manager, ATL Automotive Group; Kellise Wong, group marketing manager, ATL Automotive Group; and Mark Dommisse, managing director, ATL Automotive Group, at the launch of the 2027 Kia Seltos. (Photo: Rory Daley)

The red carpet was rolled out for the launch, as guests were treated to a well-choreographed entrance as some vehicles were driven into place and others uncovered with accompanying smoke and dramatic dancehall music, while enjoying finger foods and drinks served by robots.

Rather than a formal run of show, patrons were invited to interact as much as they wanted with the new Seltos, virtually and physically, while giving their first impressions to the hosts.

The larger frame of the 2027 Kia Seltos means more comfort for rear passengers. (Photo: Rory Daley)

The all-new 2027 Seltos is longer and wider than the previous generation, leading to more passenger and cargo room for its five occupants. It bears familial design cues such as the tiger grille and vertical front lighting signature, but has enough of its own character with boxy body lines and thin horizontal rear lights.

Wheels are 17-inch. It’s currently available in two trim levels Midspec and the sporty GT-Line. Both feature a 1.5-litre engine with an output of 126bhp and 132lb/ft of torque.

The 2027 Kia Seltos features Kia’s latest design language. (Photo: Rory Daley)

“It’s a beautiful car. Full of tech. Comfortable. Bigger. It’s just an amazing model to have,” added Jackson.

The changes are not only surface level. The all-new Seltos packs technology and options typically found in more upmarket SUVs dependent on trim level.

The 2027 Kia Seltos is powered by a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder engine. (Photo: Rory Daley)

There is nearly 30 inches of screen real estate on the inside available due to a 12.3-inch instrument display and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment screen. The GT-Line adds a Head-Up display. Potential buyers can expect voice commands, keyless entry, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seating, leather, cruise control, a 360-degree reverse camera with front and rear parking sensors, and wireless charging, as some of the many features available across the various trims.

“We don’t have anything new out for the rest of the year, but this model is definitely the model we’re going to be focused on,” he said.

The 2027 Kia Seltos is available in three trim levels — Executive, X-Line, and GT-Line. (Photo: Rory Daley)