Recent spy shots taken in Europe have unveiled the next-generation Kia Seltos Hybrid, marking its likely global debut. The heavily camouflaged prototypes showcase a host of design and powertrain updates that signal a major evolution over the current model.
Design & Styling: A Bold New Look
Though still under wraps, the photos reveal:
- Sculpted LED headlights with vertical and horizontal lighting elements.
- A boxier, more muscular profile, new alloy wheels, and a refreshed grille likely featuring honeycomb patterns.
- Sharper tail-lamps and updated bumpers at the rear.
These styling cues draw inspiration from Kia’s latest SUVs, such as the EV5, Telluride, and Sportage.
Design & Powertrain:
- Exterior: Rugged, boxier silhouette, sculpted LED lights, revised grille, updated alloy wheels—modern LK design cues prominent .
- Interior: Expected features include a 12.3-inch infotainment display, HUD, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, dual-zone climate control, and Nappa leather upholstery .
- Powertrain: Likely to feature a ~141 PS hybrid setup (similar to Kona/Niro), with e-AWD for global markets. Indian market may get a simpler 1.5L FWD hybrid initially
Production & Launch Timeline:
- Mass production is scheduled from August 2025 at Kia’s Autoland Gwangju facility.
- A global reveal is expected in late 2025 or January 2026, with subsequent rollouts across regions.
- India is projected to receive the new Seltos (possibly without hybrid) by late 2025 or early 2026, while the hybrid variant may only arrive around 2026–2027.
- Some reports suggest delays—production might shift to April 2026 due to cost and pricing strategies.
- In Europe, the Seltos Hybrid could fill the gap between models like the Stonic and Niro, offering a compact hybrid SUV with e-AWD appeal. It may even replace some discontinued models like the XCeed or Niro.
- For India, the hybrid Seltos would compete with hybrids such as the Maruti Grand Vitara and Toyota Hyryder—but likely at a later stage.
Also read: Volkswagen ID. Cross Concept: A 2026 Electric Crossover Shaping the Future
Summary Snapshot
| Region | Powertrain | AWD Option | Launch Timeline |
| Europe/Global | 1.6L Hybrid (~141 hp) | e-AWD likely | Aug 2025 → Jan 2026 |
| India | 1.5L Hybrid (FWD likely) | No AWD | Late 2025 → 2027 |
Global / European Rivals:
- Honda HR-V Hybrid: Features a 1.5L e:HEV setup delivering ~131 bhp, ~40 MPG, hybrid AWD. Price starts from €41,750—positioned as a premium rival.
- Peugeot 408 Hybrid (Crossover): Compact C-segment PHEV offering up to ~225 PS and a 12.4 kWh battery. Larger and more premium than Seltos.
- Renault Symbioz: Hybrid from Renault built on CMF-B HS platform. Offers mild hybrid to E-Tech power-split options.
- Citroën C3 Aircross: B-SUV offering mild hybrid (48V system) and full EV versions, with sub-€20k ICE base. A more affordable urban option.
Indian Market Rivals:
- Maruti Escudo Hybrid: Launching September 2025. Based on Grand Vitara, available with strong hybrid, petrol, and petrol-CNG options. Competes directly with Seltos.
- Maruti Fronx Hybrid: Expected mid-2026. Series-hybrid with ~35–40 kmpl fuel efficiency. Cost-effective small hybrid SUV.
- Mahindra XUV 3XO Hybrid: Targeted for 2026. Likely hybrid range-extender variant based on futuristic Vision X design.
- Renault Duster Hybrid: Expected 2026. Strong hybrid with 1.6L engine and dual motors; rugged appeal.
- Honda Elevate Hybrid: On production roadmap for H2 2026. Hybrid badge on a feature-rich compact SUV.
Also Read: New-Generation Renault Duster to Unveil This Diwali?
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