New Gen Kia Seltos Launch in 2026 with ICE and Hybrid Options

It is no secret that Kia is preparing the new-gen Seltos SUV that has been caught testing numerous times in India as well as on foreign soil. The Kia Seltos has been the second best-selling SUV for the Korean giant globally. With the next-gen model, the company aims to strengthen its market position further. 

Kia has confirmed that the next-gen Seltos will come with a strong hybrid engine. In fact, the India-spec model will also receive a hybrid powertrain. The new model will receive major changes in terms of design, size, interior and mechanics. 

New-gen Kia Seltos Launch Timeline

It is expected that the new-gen Kia Seltos will be launched in the Indian market in the first quarter of 2026. The hybrid version of the SUV will be launched at a later stage. 

It was reported that the new-gen Seltos Hybrid will make global debut in January 2026. However, a new media report claims that the launch could be delayed to later next year The launch has been delayed due to market shift and pricing concerns. The production of the new Seltos could be postponed to April 2026. 

Kia is currently looking at a possible impact of introducing a more expensive hybrid variant of the Seltos nameplate. A higher price model in an established and price-sensitive segment could impact the demand for the standard model. 

Big in Size

The new-gen Kia Seltos will grow in size and will carry a more boxy design compared to the ongoing rounded profile. It Is expected that the new Seltos will be around 100mm longer than the current model, which measures 4,365mm in length. The increase in length will take the new Seltos around 4.5 meters in length, making it the longest in the category. 

The increase in length will allow Kia to create more space in the second-row. Moreover, the SUV is likely to offer larger boot space. 

X-Line to carry different looks

Kia is testing two different iterations of the Seltos SUV, both carrying unique design elements. The company is likely to follow Hyundai’s strategy of selling Creta and Creta N-Line with different front designs. The new-gen Seltos X-Line is likely to carry a significantly different front design than the regular model. 

The SUV will have a unique lower bumper with differently styled air dams. It will have a more pronounced front bumper with unique styling element, while the standard model will have a more subtle design for the front bumper.

More Features

The new-gen Kia Seltos is likely to share several features from the Syros compact SUV. The current model is already feature-loaded, and the new model is likely to get even higher and premium tech. The SUV could get a 30-inch Trinity display, front and rear ventilated seats, sliding and reclining rear seats, etc. 

Hybrid Powertrain

The International-spec model is reportedly to feature a new 1.6-litre GDR hybrid powertrain with an e-AWD option. The AWD system will improve its performance, but also increase the production cost. 

The India-spec model will also get a hybrid powertrain, which is likely to be based on the 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder, naturally-aspirated petrol engine. It could be the series-parallel hybrid system, where the engine works jointly with a battery pack and an electric motor to drive wheels. 

The regular version will continue to be offered with the 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder, naturally-aspirated petrol, a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder, turbocharged petrol and a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder turbo diesel. Transmission choices likely to include a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed torque converter automatic (diesel), a CVT with petrol and a 7-speed DCT with a turbo petrol. 

Related Pages You Can Explore
 

• Latest Kia Cars
• Upcoming Kia Cars in India
• New Cars in India 2025

Also See - Renault Duster 7-Seater For India: Launch, Top Features & Key Details Out

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