New Delhi. December 2025 is going to be very interesting for the Indian automobile market. While Maruti is preparing to launch its first electric car, Kia is also going to update its Seltos SUV. Kia has started the official countdown for one of its most important global launches, the new second-generation Kia Seltos. The company has shared the first teaser image on its social media channels, which shows a glimpse of the updated design of the SUV. Its world premiere is going to happen on 10th December. These teasers make it clear that what was revealed in the recent spy shots is correct: the 2026 Seltos will be bigger, sharper and more premium than before.
boulder design
The teaser images reveal several key styling elements, such as redesigned LED headlights with Kia’s new signature lights, a more sculpted bonnet and a cleaner, more upright body profile. The tail-lamp cluster has a new geometric layout and connected light bar, while the bumpers look more muscular than before. Roof rails, square wheel arches and new alloy wheels point towards the strong stance of the SUV. The entire vehicle has not been revealed in the teaser, but it is clear that its design is more mature and global than the current generation. This also matches with the spy shots released in India and Korea, which showed the new Seltos with flat body panels, a boxy silhouette and new detailing at the front and rear.
Large dimensions and spacious cabin
According to the internal SP3i codename and development leaks, the next-gen Seltos may increase in length and width. The current Seltos measures 4,365 mm in length and 1,800 mm in width, and the new model may exceed these figures, resulting in better legroom and shoulder space. Big changes are expected inside the cabin also. New dashboard layout, new upholstery and more features can be found in 2026 Seltos. The biggest change could be the curved twin-screen setup — as seen in new Kia and Hyundai models — with two 12.3-inch displays for the infotainment system and digital cluster.
New transmission and hybrid option expected
Engine options for India remain the same – 1.5-litre NA petrol, 1.5-litre turbo-petrol and 1.5-litre diesel. However, a new 7-speed automatic transmission is expected for the diesel, which will replace the old 6AT. Globally, the 2026 Seltos will also come with a hybrid powertrain with an electric motor along with a 1.6-litre petrol engine, which will produce around 141 hp and 265 Nm of power. Whether this hybrid option will come to India or not remains to be seen, but Kia is keeping an eye on this fast-growing segment.
Possibility of safety upgrades
Kia can also improve the ADAS features in the new Seltos. The current model has Level 2 ADAS features, and the facelift may bring better sensors, updated software and more features. Given the increasing focus on safety in the segment — especially with rivals like the Hyundai Creta, Grand Vitara, Hyrider, Elevate, Taigun, Kushaq and the upcoming Tata Sierra — Kia could further strengthen its safety offering.
India launch timeline
While the global and India premiere will take place on December 10, the India launch is expected to take place in early 2026. Test mules have been seen during testing across the country, which shows that localization and pre-production validation is going on at a fast pace. The new Seltos will continue to compete in India’s most competitive SUV segment — and from these teasers it is clear that Kia is preparing a more advanced, more stylish and more premium SUV for its next generation.
