Kia has pulled the covers off the second-generation Seltos, and the shift is bigger than a routine model update. The SUV now moves to the K3 platform, the same architecture used by the Hyundai Kona and Kia Niro, giving the Seltos more space, better refinement, and room for new powertrains.
Production begins in India this month with petrol engines, followed by Korea. A hybrid joins the lineup in 2026. Australia will see the new Seltos in the fourth quarter of that year.
Larger Dimensions, More Presence
The new Seltos grows in almost every direction. The wheelbase stretches by 60 mm to 2690 mm, overall length is up to 4430 mm, width increases to 1830 mm, and cargo space rises to 536 litres. The only number that drops is height, trimmed by 35 mm for a more grounded stance.
The exterior look pulls heavily from Kia’s EV family. A wide rectangular grille, EV-style lighting signatures, sharp diagonal character lines, and bold wraparound tail lamps give it a more mature, global SUV vibe. Kia is also adding a new X-Line trim with gunmetal accents and three fresh matte colours: Ivory Silver, Dark Gun Metal, and Magma Red.
EV-Inspired Cabin With AI Assistance
Inside, the transformation is far more dramatic. Twin 12.3-inch displays sit under a single curved glass panel, joined by a dedicated climate control screen. The dashboard has been redesigned, the second row now reclines, and a full panoramic sunroof replaces the older single-pane unit.
Kia is also going heavy on digital features. The new Seltos gets a ChatGPT-powered voice assistant, over-the-air updates, and digital key support. Premium options include Bose and Harman/Kardon audio systems, new seats, and an updated steering wheel.
Wide Engine Line-up, Hybrid Coming 2026
Two 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engines headline the launch.
-
A new Standard Output version (132 kW, 265 Nm) pairs with either a 7-speed DCT or a 6-speed manual.
-
A High Output version (142 kW, 265 Nm) switches to an 8-speed torque-converter automatic.
The familiar 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol (110 kW, 179 Nm) carries over with a CVT.
Front- and all-wheel drive remain available, with torsion-beam or multi-link rear suspension depending on the variant.
The upcoming hybrid powertrain, expected in late 2026, brings smart regenerative braking and vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality.
Global Ambitions And Rising Sales Targets
For the first time, the Seltos will be sold in Western Europe, adding to its already sizeable global footprint across India, the US, Mexico, China, South Korea, and Australia.
Kia aims for 430,000 annual sales with the new model, led by strong demand in the US and India. The Seltos has been one of Kia’s most consistent performers, crossing 339,000 global sales in 2023 and nearly 300,000 in 2024.
Pricing is expected to rise, but Kia says the Seltos will stay competitive especially with the hybrid poised to take on the Toyota Corolla Cross.
