The Next-Gen Kia Seltos has officially arrived, and it is more than just a simple cosmetic update. As one of India’s most successful mid-size SUVs, the Seltos has always set the benchmark for features and design. However, with the 2026 avatar, Kia has gone back to the drawing board to create a vehicle that is sharper, smarter, and more efficient.
With a complete design overhaul and the highly anticipated introduction of a strong hybrid engine, the Next-Gen Kia Seltos is positioning itself to reclaim its throne from rivals like the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Toyota Hyryder.
1. Bolder Styling: The “Tiger Face” Evolves
The first thing you’ll notice about the Next-Gen Kia Seltos is its commanding road presence. Kia has moved away from the softer lines of the previous generation in favor of a boxier, more aggressive silhouette.
- Front Fascia: The signature “Tiger Nose” grille is now larger and features a digital pattern. It is flanked by “Star Map” LED DRLs that extend into the grille, giving it a futuristic look.
- Aero-Style Wheels: New 18-inch alloy wheels with a geometric, aero-inspired design help with both aesthetics and fuel efficiency.
- The Rear Profile: The back features C-shaped connected LED taillamps, similar to the flagship EV9, emphasizing the SUV’s width and premium status.
- Flush Door Handles: For the first time in this segment, the Seltos introduces automatic flush-fitting door handles, a feature usually reserved for luxury EVs.
2. Interior Revolution: The 30-Inch Panorama
Stepping inside the Next-Gen Kia Seltos feels like entering a cockpit from the next decade. The cabin has been completely redesigned with high-quality soft-touch materials and a minimalist layout.
The centerpiece is the massive integrated display unit, which combines a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment system, effectively creating a nearly 30-inch curved glass interface.
Key Interior Highlights:
- Panoramic Sunroof: A dual-pane panoramic sunroof that floods the cabin with natural light.
- Ventilated & Memory Seats: 10-way powered driver seats with memory functions and multi-stage ventilation.
- Triple-Zone Climate Control: Allowing the driver, front passenger, and rear passengers to set their own temperatures.
- Bose Audio System: An 8-speaker premium sound system optimized for the new, quieter cabin architecture.
3. The Game Changer: Strong Hybrid Engine
Perhaps the biggest news surrounding the Next-Gen Kia Seltos is the confirmed shift toward hybridization. While the reliable 1.5L Turbo Petrol and 1.5L Diesel engines remain, the star of the show is the new 1.6L Petrol-Hybrid powertrain.
This strong hybrid system is designed to directly take on the Grand Vitara’s fuel efficiency. By pairing an internal combustion engine with a high-capacity electric motor, the Seltos Hybrid aims to deliver a mileage figure exceeding 25 kmpl, making it an ideal choice for the eco-conscious Indian buyer who doesn’t want to sacrifice performance.
4. Next-Gen Kia Seltos vs. Grand Vitara: The Rivalry
The mid-size SUV segment is currently a battlefield of efficiency. Here is how the Next-Gen Kia Seltos stacks up against its primary hybrid rival:
The Seltos offers significantly more power and a far more advanced tech suite, though the Grand Vitara remains a formidable opponent in terms of pure reliability and service network.
5. Advanced Safety and Level 2 ADAS
Safety has been a major focus for the Next-Gen Kia Seltos. Beyond the standard six airbags and Electronic Stability Control (ESC), the new model features an enhanced Level 2 ADAS suite with 21 autonomous features, including:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (Junction Turning)
- Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go
- Blind Spot Collision-Avoidance
- Safe Exit Warning
FAQ
Q: What is the expected price of the Next-Gen Kia Seltos?
A: The Next-Gen Kia Seltos is expected to be priced between ₹12 lakh and ₹21 lakh (ex-showroom), with the hybrid variants sitting at the higher end of the spectrum.
Q: When will the Next-Gen Kia Seltos launch in India?
A: Following its global debut in late 2025, the Next-Gen Kia Seltos is scheduled for an official price reveal and market launch in India in January 2026.
Q: Does the new Seltos have a hybrid engine?
A: Yes, the Next-Gen Kia Seltos introduces a strong hybrid powertrain (likely a 1.6L unit) alongside its existing petrol and diesel options to offer better fuel efficiency.
Q: Is the Next-Gen Kia Seltos bigger than the current model?
A: Yes, the new generation is approximately 95mm longer and features an 80mm longer wheelbase, resulting in significantly more rear legroom and boot space.
