Kia made a bold statement at the 2026 New York International Auto Show, unveiling a host of new vehicles and technologies designed to cement its position as a leader in North America’s rapidly evolving automotive landscape. The event, held at the Jacob Javits Convention Center from April 1 to April 12, saw Kia showcase not only its latest models but also its ambitious vision for electrification and inclusive mobility.
The spotlight shone brightest on the North American debuts of the all-new Seltos and the highly anticipated Kia EV3, both of which signal Kia’s determination to meet the changing tastes and needs of American drivers. According to Kia, these launches are part of a broader strategy to expand its hybrid offerings across the entire SUV lineup in North America, a move directly responding to the surging demand for eco-friendly vehicles in the region.
“Kia achieved over 850,000 sales in the United States last year, marking our third consecutive annual sales record,” said Eric Watson, Vice President of Sales Operations for Kia America, during the press conference. He added, “With the launch of the all-new Telluride, we will further solidify our presence in the U.S. market.” His comments reflected the company’s confidence and momentum as it seeks to build on its recent successes.
Sean Yoon, President and CEO of Kia North America and Kia America, emphasized the company’s commitment to hybrid technology. “In response to the rapidly increasing demand for hybrid vehicles in North America, Kia plans to expand hybrid models across its entire SUV lineup,” Yoon stated. He also announced that starting in late May, the Hyundai Motor Group Meta Plant America (HMGMA) will begin producing the Sportage hybrid, targeting the largest volume segment in the North American market. “Through this, we expect to continue Kia’s growth and strengthen our competitiveness in North America,” he said.
The all-new Seltos, a central figure in Kia’s global SUV lineup, was introduced with both gasoline and hybrid powertrains. The hybrid version, featuring a 1.6-liter hybrid powertrain, promises excellent fuel efficiency and an electrified driving feel that brings customers closer to the electric vehicle experience. Gasoline options include a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine delivering 190 horsepower with an 8-speed automatic transmission for smoother shifts, and a 2.0-liter engine paired with an intelligent variable transmission (IVT) for a robust 147 horsepower.
Design-wise, the new Seltos boasts a body length increased by about 60mm compared to its predecessor, resulting in a segment-leading 2,690mm wheelbase. This translates to more generous interior space and improved comfort, especially for rear passengers. The X-Line trim adds exclusive bumpers, skid plates, and side sills, enhancing the vehicle’s dynamic and bold character. Inside, drivers are greeted by a column-type electronic shift lever and a panoramic wide display that seamlessly integrates a 12.3-inch cluster, a 5-inch climate display, and a 12.3-inch infotainment system, making the cabin feel even more spacious and modern.
Practicality hasn’t been overlooked: the Seltos offers up to 786 liters of luggage space (SAE standard), expanding to approximately 1,817 liters with the rear seats folded. Features like a two-level luggage board and Kia’s AddGear system further boost utility. Safety is front and center, with every Seltos trim equipped with advanced features such as forward collision avoidance assist, lane keeping assist, intelligent speed limit assist, and driver attention warning. Additional options include highway driving assist, smart cruise control, surround view monitoring, blind-spot monitoring, and rear parking collision avoidance assist.
Kia is also pushing the boundaries of in-car technology. The Seltos comes equipped with a generative AI-powered Kia AI assistant, enabling interactive communication between car and driver. The vehicle’s connectivity is further enhanced through the Kia Connect Store, offering over-the-air updates for entertainment and convenience features. In-car streaming of YouTube, Disney+, and Netflix is available, and customers can even personalize their displays with NBA, FIFA World Cup 2026™, or Disney-themed visuals. Recognizing the importance of home garages in North America, Kia has introduced the myQ Connected Garage feature, allowing drivers to automatically open or close their garage doors or control them remotely via the vehicle’s display.
The gasoline-powered Seltos models are set to hit U.S. dealerships in the second quarter of 2026, with the hybrid model following at the end of the fourth quarter. This staggered rollout aims to ensure that Kia can meet the growing appetite for both traditional and electrified vehicles.
Alongside the Seltos, Kia introduced the EV3, a compact dedicated electric SUV designed to accelerate the mainstream adoption of EVs in North America. The EV3 is available in two battery configurations: an 81.4 kWh long-range model and a 58.3 kWh standard model. Both variants are equipped with the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, and the standard model supports fast charging from 10% to 80% in just 29 minutes using a 350 kW charger. The Plug and Charge (PnC) feature streamlines the charging process by automating authentication, charging, and payment.
Driving the EV3 is made easier with i-Pedal 3.0, which enables true one-pedal driving, and Vehicle to Load (V2L) functionality, allowing the car to supply power to external devices—a handy feature for camping or emergencies. The EV3 also features advanced driver assistance systems such as highway driving assist 2, forward collision avoidance, lane keeping assist, surround view monitoring, remote smart parking assist, and rear parking collision avoidance assist. The model will be available in five trims—Light, Wind, Land, GT-Line, and GT—with the GT trim boasting a dual-motor setup for sportier performance and exclusive design elements.
Kia’s dedication to inclusive mobility was also on display with the unveiling of the PV5 WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle) concept. Developed in partnership with BraunAbility, a North American mobility specialist, the PV5 WAV is based on Kia’s flexible PBV (Platform Beyond Vehicle) architecture. Its low-floor design ensures easy boarding and alighting for wheelchair users and drivers alike. This concept vehicle, styled as a New York taxi, was the centerpiece of a Proof of Concept (PoC) pilot conducted in collaboration with government agencies, disability organizations, and ride-sharing platforms in New York. Feedback from real users and administrators during the pilot will help Kia refine the WAV for mass production, with the goal of delivering safer and more convenient transportation for wheelchair users.
Throughout the 12-day auto show, Kia displayed a total of 21 vehicles—including the K4, K5, EV6, Telluride, Sorento, Sportage, and Carnival—across a sprawling 1,769 square meter exhibition space. The company’s presence was impossible to miss, and the breadth of its offerings underscored a clear message: Kia is ready to lead in North America’s next automotive chapter, whether it’s through electrification, digital connectivity, or accessible design.
As the curtain falls on the 2026 New York International Auto Show, Kia’s fresh lineup and forward-looking technologies have set the stage for a new era of mobility—one that promises to be smarter, greener, and more inclusive for all.