All-New Kia Seltos Hybrid to Launch Globally First, India Launch Later

Kia is preparing a big update for the Seltos nameplate. While the all-new Kia Seltos Hybrid will debut in global markets early next year, India will get a different and more localised configuration at a later stage.

New-Gen Kia Seltos to Launch First in India

India will be the first market to get the fully redesigned new Kia Seltos. The Kia Seltos new model is scheduled to go on sale in January 2026. This makes the 2026 Kia Seltos an important launch for the brand in the country.

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Kia Seltos Hybrid Likely by June 2027

According to a report, the new-gen Kia Seltos Hybrid is expected to be launched in India by June 2027. Kia has designed the 2026 Seltos from the start to support hybrid technology. However, the company wants to localise key hybrid components to keep costs competitive, which is why the launch will take more time.

Hybrid Tech May Debut on Another Kia Model First

Kia India’s senior management has hinted that hybrid technology could be introduced on another model before the Kia Seltos Hybrid. This is likely to be the Sorento Hybrid, which has already been spotted testing in India and is expected to arrive around the festive season.

Sorento Hybrid to Build Interest in Hybrids

The Sorento Hybrid uses a more powerful hybrid system based on a 1.6-litre turbo petrol engine. Kia may use this SUV to showcase its hybrid technology and increase awareness before bringing the new Seltos hybrid to India.

India-Spec Seltos Hybrid to Get Local Engine

Globally, the Kia Seltos Hybrid uses a 1.6-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. Since this engine is not produced in India, Kia is likely to adapt the locally made 1.5-litre petrol engine for the Indian version of the new Kia Seltos.

Expected Mileage and Power Output

In the regular 2026 Kia Seltos, the 1.5-litre petrol engine produces 114 hp and 144 Nm. For the hybrid version, Kia is expected to retune this engine. The new-gen Kia Seltos Hybrid could deliver fuel efficiency close to 25 kmpl, offering a 35-40 percent improvement over the standard petrol model.

Vehicle-to-Load Feature Confirmed

Kia Seltos Hybrid will also offer vehicle-to-load charging. This feature allows users to power external devices using energy stored in the battery, adding everyday convenience to the Kia Seltos new model lineup.

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