The global demand for electric cars is witnessing a downward trend, prompting automakers, including Kia, to shift their focus towards hybrid vehicles.
At the recently held Investor Day 2025 event, Kia confirmed that it will offer a hybrid powertrain for its compact SUV, the Seltos. This new hybrid system is expected to debut with the next-generation Kia Seltos in the latter half of this year.
Kia Seltos with a confirmed hybrid version is just around the corner.
Prior to this, Kia assessed the feasibility of introducing hybrid models in the Indian market, one of which was the new Seltos, internally coded SP3i. In addition to the Seltos, Kia also plans to launch a hybrid version of its large SUV, the Telluride.
While Kia has confirmed the hybrid powertrain for the Seltos, detailed specifications are yet to be disclosed. However, according to sources, the new Kia Seltos Hybrid will be powered by a familiar 1.5L naturally aspirated 4-cylinder gasoline engine.
The next-generation Kia Seltos has been spotted testing in South Korea and India, indicating a significant design overhaul inspired by Kia’s electric vehicle lineup.
Kia Seltos 2026 spotted testing in South Korea.
The most prominent change is the new lighting system. The 2026 Seltos features redesigned LED headlights unique to any Kia model currently on the market. The headlights are accompanied by a distinctive ‘H’-shaped LED daytime running light signature, consisting of three vertical bars placed closely to the grille. The grille itself has been redesigned with a recessed look and multiple vertical slats.
The 2026 Kia Seltos sports new headlights…
… and a redesigned grille.
At the rear, the SUV features a full-width LED taillight similar to its predecessor. The design also bears a resemblance to Kia’s new EV5 electric car.
Rear view of the Kia Seltos.
Additionally, the compact SUV is equipped with two-tone alloy wheels and a wide central air intake on the front bumper, accompanied by a square sensor housing. It’s likely that both the front and rear bumpers will receive updates.
Illustrative image of the new Kia Seltos.
Along with the new hybrid powertrain, the next-generation Kia Seltos will continue to offer gasoline and diesel engine options. Following its global debut later this year, the new Seltos is expected to enter the Indian market in 2026.
By 2030, Kia aims to have hybrid vehicles account for 25% of its total sales in India, indicating the company’s ambitious plans for the populous market. For electric vehicles, Kia targets an 18% market share.
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