2026 Kia Seltos Gets EV5-Like Rear, AWD and Independent Suspension

The long-awaited new-gen Kia Seltos has been caught testing again in Korea, revealing some interesting details. The latest spy images reveal its rear design, which is clearly inspired by the Kia EV5 electric SUV. Adding to it, the spotted model has a hybrid powertrain and AWD system. 

What’s interesting is that the 2026 Kia Seltos AWD version will come with rear independent suspension, which should improve its ride and handling dynamics. This version is most likely to be reserved for select international markets, including Europe and America. It is too early to comment on whether the Seltos AWD will arrive in our market or not. 

2026 Kia Seltos - AWD and Independent Suspension

The outgoing Seltos is a front-wheel-drive model, which comes with torsion beam rear suspension set-up. However, the 2026 Kia Seltos will have a multi-link rear suspension setup. It is also confirmed that the SUV will have an all-wheel-drive (AWD) set-up.

The AWD set-up is most likely to be offered with the hybrid version of the Seltos. The Korean media report that the mass production of the Seltos hybrid will commence in August 2026 at Kia Autoland Gwangju Factory. Internally called the SP3, the new-gen Kia Seltos is reportedly to feature a 141hp, 1.6-litre hybrid system that also powers the Hyundai Kona Hybrid and Kia Niro.  It is likely to get a dedicated electronic all-time four-wheel (E-AWD) system, which will target the European and the American market.

New Seltos hybrid for India

The next-gen Seltos for India will also receive a strong hybrid engine, which is likely to be based on a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder, naturally-aspirated petrol engine. The hybrid engine is likely to comprise a 1.5L petrol engine, a small battery pack and an electric motor. This system will also be offered on future Kia cars in India, including a new 7-seater SUV, which is currently under development. Kia officials confirm that the next Seltos hybrid for India will launch in 2027. 

Kia EV5-like Rear Design

The spy images also confirm that the new Kia Seltos rear design is heavily inspired by the global Kia EV5 electric SUV. It gets the EV5-like inverted L-shaped tail-lamps, which are connected via a thin LED light bar. The number plate is now placed on the lower bumper instead of the tailgate. It has a new tailgate design and a more pronounced lower bumper that has silver skid plate and twin-exhaust pipes. 

The previous spy images reveal that the 2026 Kia Seltos will grow in size and will have a more boxier design. It has an upright front fascia, featuring a wider grille, newly styled LED headlamps and a pronounced lower bumper that houses an expansive air intake. The SUV has a flatter roof and striking fenders, which are complemented by a flat roof and large greenhouse. 

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