Next-generation Kia Seltos Spotted Testing, Likely To Make Its India Debut By…

Ever since its India launch in 2019, The Seltos has been Kia’s bread and butter in the Indian market and has been a compelling product in the compact SUV space. The Seltos received a facelift in 2023, and we expect Kia to launch the new-generation model on our shores in the second half of 2026. The next-generation model was recently spotted testing in Northern Europe in trying snowing conditions. We suspect that the model being tested is likely the AWD (all-wheel drive) strong hybrid version which will likely be introduced in the upcoming Seltos. 

While the SUV was heavily camouflaged, here’s what we decode from the shots and what we expect from the new version: 

Design 

While not much was disclosed, we can see that the new Seltos will come with a boxier and more beefed-up appearance. The Seltos is known for its sporty looks, and we expect the same from the next-gen as well. We can clearly see that it gets a new grille up front and a more upright front look. The LED headlamps also have a new design with a more squarish appearance. 

The profile boasts a new design for the alloy wheels, and you get roof rails to complement the SUV stance. The rear boasts a slightly erect look and new LED tail lights that seem to be vertically oriented, which is in line with the new Kia models. 

Interior And Features 

As seen in most new-generation models, we expect Kia to play around with the dashboard design and layout. It could also get larger screens (likely 12.3-inch ones) for the touchscreen infotainment system and digital driver’s display. One can also expect a completely revamped lower centre console. As seen in the Syros SUV, the Seltos could also possibly get seat ventilation for the rear seats. 

In terms of features, we expect it to come loaded to the brim with top-notch features such as a panoramic sunroof, a dual-zone climate control, a heads-up display, multi-colour ambient lighting, a 360-degree camera, front, side and rear parking sensors, 6 airbags as standard and a full suite of level-2 ADAS features. 

Powertrain 

We expect Kia to continue offering the current engine options, which include the 115 PS 1.5-litre NA petrol, 116 PS 1.5-litre diesel engine and a 160 PS 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine. However, with the Government of India promoting more eco-friendly powertrains, chances are that the strong hybrid version which is expected to be offered with the new model in global markets, could be offered in India as well. Also, there is a possibility of MG introducing a hybrid SUV in the near future so the possibility of Kia introducing the same cannot be ruled out completely.

While not confirmed yet, like the Creta, the Seltos may also see the introduction of an electric powertrain.

Expected Price And Rivals 

We expect the next-generation model of the Seltos to be offered at a premium over the current model which retails between Rs 11.2 lakh to Rs 20.50 lakh (ex-showroom). It will pose a stronger threat to the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, MG Astor, Honda Elevate, and VW Taigun. 

Even after receiving a facelift which made the Seltos much more attractive, it still is far from being the best seller in the segment. The next-gen model with the possibility of introducing a new powertrain could potentially help the Seltos’ sales numbers in India. What do you think? Let us know in the comments.

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