Next-gen Kia Seltos to Grow in Size - Boxier Design, Hybrid Engine

First launched in 2019, the Kia Seltos has been the brand’s top-selling SUVs in India as well as in global markets. The company has started testing the next-generation Seltos SUV that has been caught several times in India and on foreign soil. The redesigned crossover has now been spied undergoing testing in Europe. 

Next-gen Kia Seltos Design

The heavily camouflaged test mule has revealed key information about its possible design. It is clearly visible that the next-gen Seltos will grow in size and will carry a boxier design compared to more roundish in the current form. 

The 2026 Kia Seltos has an upright front fascia that appears similar to newer Kia models such as the Carnival and Sportage. It has a wider front grille, flanked by newly designed LED headlamps. The SUV has a pronounced lower bumper that houses an expansive air intake. There is a centrally mounted Radar Sensor that splits the air intake.

It has a flatter roof and striking fenders, which are complemented by a flat roof and large greenhouse. The crossover appears bigger than the current model; however, exact details are yet to be revealed.

The rear profile is heavily covered in thick cloth, but it is visible that the SUV will have an all-new tailgate and lower bumper. In fact, the license plate is now placed on the bumper instead of the lift-gate in the current model. It has taller LED tail-lights that seems inspired by the Kia EV5.

Hybrid Engine (India Launch in 2027)

The next-gen Seltos is expected to debut next year and will be offered with a hybrid powertrain. Korean media reports that the next Kia Seltos will make its global debut in January 2026. The global spec model is likely to get the 1.6L turbo petrol engine, which is said to improve its efficiency by more than 4 percent. Adding to it, the SUV will also receive an e-AWD system. It has a rear-mounted electric motor to provide all-weather traction.

The India-spec next-gen Seltos will continue to be offered with the existing engine options - 1.5L NA petrol, a 1.5L turbo petrol and a 1.5L turbo diesel. Adding to it, the SUV will also receive a hybrid engine which is likely to be based on the existing 1.5L NA petrol engine.

Source - Carscoops