The second-generation Kia Seltos (codenamed SP3i) is set for a world premiere on December 10 in Korea. Its first-generation model had made its global debut in India. The next-gen midsize SUV will have a completely overhauled exterior and interior, as well as a brand-new powertrain option. An India launch is expected sometime in 2026. 

1. Next-gen Kia Seltos to get a hybrid powertrain option
2. It is expected to be considerably larger than the current model
3. India launch of the second-gen Seltos is expected in 2026 

Next-gen Kia Seltos exterior and interior 

The second-gen Kia Seltos has been spied testing both abroad and in India on several occasions already. Camouflaged test mules have hinted at a completely new design language, as seen on the recently unveiled Kia Telluride. The overall shape is more upright and boxier; it gets vertical LED DRL (daytime running lamp) signatures with connected light bands, and it is expected to have some quirky, if not polarising, design details as well. 

IMAGE SOURCE: nitrorush_01 via Instagram

The new Seltos is also likely to be considerably larger than the model it replaces, which should bode well for interior space. Speaking of the interior, the current Seltos is already very well-equipped, and the new-generation model could further build on that. Expect an all-new dashboard design and new upholstery as well. 

Next-gen Kia Seltos powertrain details 

The current Kia Seltos offers three engine options – a 115hp 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol, a 160hp 1.5-litre turbo-petrol and a 116hp 1.5-litre diesel; these are likely to continue in the second-gen model. What’s interesting is that Kia will add a hybrid powertrain to the midsize SUV’s range. We reported that the existing 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine will be electrified for the new Seltos and power Kia’s upcoming 3-row SUV, too. This move will help Kia to further take the fight to the hybrid variants of the Maruti Grand Vitara and Toyota Hyryder. There are also talks of the Seltos equipped with an e-AWD system in markets abroad, but it is unlikely to be offered here. 

Kia had confirmed a hybrid powertrain for the Seltos at the brand’s 2025 Investor Day.

By the time the new Seltos arrives in India in 2026, the already crowded midsize SUV segment will have further grown with the likes of the upcoming Renault Duster and Nissan Tekton. So far, the Seltos has been one of the more popular models in its class, and it remains to be seen if the new-gen model can take it further with a wider powertrain line-up and additional tech.  

Source: Korean Car Blog