2027 Kia Seltos Trim Levels Explained: LX vs. S vs. EX vs. X-Line

The Kia Seltos has entered a new generation for 2027, and that makes understanding the trim lineup especially important if you’re shopping for one.

The all-new 2027 Kia Seltos is available in five trims: LX, S, EX, X-Line S and X-Line SX. Starting MSRPs currently listed by Kia range from $24,990 for the LX to $32,790 for the X-Line SX, before destination, taxes, registration, options and dealer charges. Pricing and availability can change, so current inventory should always be checked when you’re ready to shop.

More importantly, the differences aren’t simply cosmetic. Moving through the lineup changes the combination of comfort, styling, technology and performance.

Here’s a simpler way to understand the 2027 Seltos family.

2027 Kia Seltos LX: Start With the Essentials

The LX is the entry point into the new Seltos lineup.

Kia describes it as the practical choice with smart standard features, and its $24,990 starting MSRP makes it the least expensive 2027 Seltos trim at the time of publication.

That makes LX worth considering for shoppers whose first priorities are getting into a new Seltos and keeping the purchase price lower rather than adding every available convenience feature.

It’s also important not to equate “base trim” with “bare bones.” Modern entry-level vehicles include considerably more technology and safety equipment than base models did years ago.

For many buyers, the question isn’t whether LX has enough equipment. It’s whether the additional comfort and convenience features in the higher trims are worth the price difference for the way they’ll use the vehicle.

2027 Kia Seltos S: A Step Up From the Base Model

The S trim starts at $26,390, according to Kia’s current pricing.

This is where shoppers should begin comparing features rather than simply comparing prices.

The S provides another step in the lineup for customers who want additional equipment and styling beyond the LX without moving all the way into the more premium or adventure-focused Seltos configurations.

For a lot of compact-SUV buyers, trims in this part of a lineup can offer an attractive balance: you aren’t paying for every available feature, but you’re moving beyond the most basic configuration.

2027 Kia Seltos EX: Focused More on Comfort and Convenience

The EX currently starts at $28,390.

Think of EX as a trim for shoppers who place greater emphasis on everyday comfort and convenience.

If you spend a lot of time commuting, transporting children or taking road trips, the features you interact with every day can become more important than exterior styling upgrades.

That’s why it’s helpful to sit in an EX and compare it directly with an LX or S rather than making the decision from a specification sheet alone.

Touch the materials. Try the technology. Adjust the seating. Look at the cargo area. Those everyday details are often what determine whether stepping up a trim level is worthwhile.

2027 Kia Seltos X-Line S: Rugged Style and Standard AWD

This is where the personality of the Seltos changes.

The X-Line S starts at $28,990 and adds an adventure-oriented appearance along with standard all-wheel drive. Kia lists X-Line features including exclusive 18-inch wheels, black exterior design elements, black roof rails, unique Kia badging, X-Line seat trim and heated front seats.

For Nebraska drivers, standard AWD may be one of the biggest reasons to consider the X-Line S.

Kia also offers a Multi-Terrain Mode Selector with mud, snow and sand settings on the X-Line configuration, along with available features including a panoramic sunroof and LED projector headlights.

The X-Line S is likely to appeal to shoppers who want their Seltos to look and feel more adventure-oriented while adding all-wheel-drive capability.

2027 Kia Seltos X-Line SX: Performance and Technology

At the top of the current lineup is the X-Line SX, with a starting MSRP of $32,790.

This is the Seltos for buyers who want more than the standard compact-SUV experience.

Kia offers an available turbocharged engine producing 190 horsepower in the X-Line lineup, and the X-Line SX emphasizes the Seltos’ performance and technology side. Kia also highlights available premium technologies including Blind-Spot View Monitor, 360° Surround View Monitor and ventilated front seats through applicable equipment packages.

The new Seltos can also be equipped with a digital cockpit offering nearly 30 inches of combined digital displays, along with navigation, Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Wireless Android Auto™.

If the LX is about practicality, the X-Line SX is about getting much closer to the full Seltos experience.

A Simpler Way to Choose Your Seltos Trim

Instead of memorizing every individual feature, think about the lineup according to what matters most to you.

LX makes sense if value and essential features are your priorities.

S gives you a step up in equipment without jumping to the upper end of the lineup.

EX is worth considering when comfort and convenience are higher priorities.

X-Line S is the place to look if you want standard AWD, distinctive styling and a more adventurous personality.

X-Line SX is aimed at shoppers who want the strongest combination of available performance, technology and premium equipment.

The best choice isn’t necessarily the highest trim. It’s the trim that includes the features you’ll actually appreciate enough to justify the difference in price.

What’s New About the 2027 Seltos?

The 2027 model is more than a minor update.

Kia describes it as the all-new Seltos, with a redesigned exterior influenced by the newest Telluride, increased interior utility and a significantly updated technology experience. Kia also highlights best-in-class interior volume and class-leading maximum cargo room for the new model.

The available digital cockpit is one of the most noticeable changes inside, while the X-Line models give buyers the opportunity to move toward a more rugged appearance and additional capability.

For shoppers who previously considered the Seltos but wanted more interior space, technology or upscale features, the new generation is worth another look.

Compare Seltos Trims at Kia of Lincoln

The easiest way to choose between LX, S, EX, X-Line S and X-Line SX is to compare them in person.

A feature that sounds essential online may not matter once you drive the vehicle. At the same time, something you barely noticed on a specification sheet—heated seats, upgraded displays, AWD or a power liftgate, for example—might quickly become something you don’t want to give up.

At Kia of Lincoln, we’ll help you compare available Seltos models based on what matters to you rather than simply pushing you toward the most expensive trim.

Browse our current new Kia inventory to see which Seltos models are available, or use our payment calculator to compare your options.

Have a question about a particular Seltos? Call Kia of Lincoln at (402) 434-7000.

You can also follow Kia of Lincoln on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube.

If you’re shopping for a compact SUV in Lincoln, come experience the all-new 2027 Kia Seltos and see which trim fits you best.