New Delhi. Kia is going to make the global debut of its next generation Seltos tomorrow, during which we will get a glimpse of the biggest change of this SUV for the first time. The new Kia Seltos will arrive in India in early 2026, with a completely new design, larger dimensions, a new cabin and for the first time, a strong hybrid powertrain. The teaser shows a major change in the styling of the Seltos, with a more upright and muscular look that reflects Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ philosophy. At the front, there is a wide digital tiger face grille, which is now combined with sharp, vertical LED DRLs and C-shaped lighting elements. The futuristic star map LED signature connects the front and rear, where the full-length light bar, like the Kia Carens Clavis, adds visual sophistication. The flush door handles, blacked-out pillars, redesigned alloy wheels and the panoramic sunroof take it into a more premium segment. Kia has also introduced a welcome lighting animation that plays on the DRLs and headlamps as soon as you unlock.
interior changes
On the inside, the new generation Seltos has a clean and modern layout, with a twin-display setup with a 12.3-inch screen for the infotainment and instrument cluster. The gently curved panel and new 3-spoke steering wheel give the SUV a premium feel. The GT Line variant gets dual-tone black-and-cream theme, brushed-metal pedals and wide ambient light strips.
Kia has retained the physical buttons required for climate and core functions, to maintain usability in the digital cabin. The redesigned center console features a compact gear selector, repositioned drive mode controls and a retractable cupholder cover. The slim AC vents fit well into the layered dashboard and the storage space in the cabin has been optimized. Apart from this, panoramic sunroof, ventilated and powered front seats, wireless charging, boss mode and premium audio system are included.
Strong Hybrid Powertrain
Talking about engines, the new Seltos will continue to be available with 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol, 1.5-litre turbo-petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engines. The biggest update is the stronger hybrid powertrain, in which a 1.5-litre petrol engine will be combined with an electric motor. This focuses on efficiency and pits the SUV against hybrid rivals like the Toyota Highrider and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara.
