New Gen Kia Seltos Spied Again in India, Launch Expected in 2026

Kia is gearing up to revolutionize its popular compact SUV segment with the next-generation Kia Seltos, which is expected to make its international debut sometime in 2026 before launching in India. Recently, a heavily camouflaged prototype of the new Seltos was spotted on Indian roads undergoing rigorous testing, offering a sneak peek into the massive redesign and feature upgrades that the new model promises.

Bold Design Language Inspired by Global SUVs

The upcoming Kia Seltos moves towards a more aggressive and refined design inspired by Kia’s larger SUVs, such as the Sorento and Sportage. The prototype seen on Indian roads showcases several fresh design cues including:

Vertically stacked LED headlamps for a distinctive front fascia
A reshaped grille with revised air intakes and a more upright stance
Sharper and more pronounced body creases enhancing the SUV’s muscular look
Prominent vertical LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs)
New alloy wheel designs
Triangular rear quarter glass for a sportier profile
Redesigned bumpers at both front and rear ends
Updated taillight graphics and new exterior colour options

The overall design suggests a move towards a bolder, more commanding road presence while retaining the compact SUV footprint familiar to Indian buyers.

Larger Dimensions and Spacious Interiors

While the next-gen Seltos will maintain dimensions similar to the current model, subtle increases in length and width are expected to provide improved interior space and boot capacity. The cabin is set for a major transformation featuring:

A completely redesigned dashboard and center console layout emphasizing a more modern and premium look
Higher quality materials including soft-touch leatherette finishes
A large 30-inch Trinity Display that integrates the digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen for seamless connectivity and usability
Enhanced connected car features powered by Kia Connect, offering over-the-air updates, remote functions, and voice assistants integration
Advanced driver assistance systems offering improved active safety, with features like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane keep assist, and emergency braking

These enhancements are aimed at elevating the in-cabin experience and rivaling the cabins of premium compact SUVs.

Engine Lineup and Hybrid Powertrain Prospects

Kia is likely to retain its popular and reliable engine options for the new Seltos in India, including:

1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine
1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine
1.5-litre turbo diesel engine (availability may vary depending on emission norms)

However, the most anticipated development for the next-gen Seltos is the potential introduction of a hybrid powertrain. Rumors suggest Kia may offer a self-charging hybrid system combining the 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and battery pack, similar to global models.

This hybrid setup would serve to:

Improve fuel efficiency significantly
Reduce emissions in line with tightening regulatory standards
Provide a smoother and quieter driving experience
Possibly include an all-wheel-drive (AWD) hybrid variant for select markets

Market Outlook and Launch Timeline

The new Kia Seltos holds significant importance for the brand, especially as the current generation is facing increased competition in India. The updated generation aims to reclaim its position as a top choice for compact SUV customers by offering:

Fresh styling with a bolder road presence
More driver assistance and connectivity tech
An efficient hybrid powertrain to appeal to environmentally conscious buyers

The new model is expected to go into production by mid to late 2026 with an Indian launch likely toward the end of the year or early 2027.

Conclusion

The next-generation Kia Seltos embodies Kia’s global design language and technology advancements while customizing features to meet Indian consumers’ needs. With promising upgrades in design, technology, safety, and hybrid powertrain options, the new Seltos is set to compete hard in the fiercely contested midsize SUV segment.

Prospective buyers can anticipate a spacious and tech-rich SUV that offers a premium feel at a competitive price point. Kia’s hybrid ambitions with the Seltos could further strengthen its appeal, making it a compelling choice amid India’s evolving automotive landscape.

Stay tuned for more updates as we approach the official launch of the all-new Kia Seltos in India.