The next-generation Kia Seltos is set to feature a hybrid powertrain. During its recent Investor’s Day 2025 event, Kia, the South Korean automotive manufacturer, revealed its intensified commitment to electrified vehicles, including hybrids. The company announced plans to broaden its hybrid offerings across all vehicle categories, ranging from compact to full-size models. This initiative will encompass the forthcoming second-generation Kia Seltos, anticipated to debut in 2026.

Kia has established an ambitious target of achieving 2.33 million sales of electrified vehicles by 2030, which will represent 56 percent of its overall sales objectives. This target includes 1.26 million electric vehicles (EVs) and 1.07 million hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), which comprise plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and Extended Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs). In light of the increasing demand for hybrids, the company aims to boost hybrid sales to nearly one million units by 2030, a significant increase from the projected 490,000 units in 2025.

Notably, Kia aims to raise the share of electrified model sales to 70 percent in North America, 86 percent in Europe, 73 percent in South Korea, and 43 percent in India. In India, the company plans to enhance sales around the newly launched Syros, targeting 400,000 units by 2030.

Second-gen Kia Seltos: What to expect

The forthcoming Kia Seltos is anticipated to incorporate a hybrid powertrain, although the manufacturer has yet to provide specific details regarding this system. It is believed that the second-generation Seltos will be equipped with a 1.6-liter hybrid petrol engine, similar to that found in the Hyundai Kona Hybrid, which generates 141 horsepower. Adjustments to the engine's output for the new model are expected.

Additionally, the new Seltos is likely to retain the existing range of engines, which includes 158 bhp turbocharged petrol options and 114 bhp diesel variants. The transmission choices are expected to encompass a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed clutchless manual, a 6-speed torque converter, a CVT, and a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic.

Recent spy images of the second-generation Kia Seltos from South Korea reveal that the new model will showcase a more vertical front end, taking design cues from the Kia Telluride. The rear design incorporates elements from the Kia EV5, particularly in the tail lights, which merge modern electric vehicle aesthetics with classic SUV features. These tail lights are anticipated to extend from the rear window's edge to the bumper, enhancing the SUV's visual width.

Although the overall shape of the Seltos remains recognizable, minor adjustments indicate that the new version may be slightly longer, potentially providing additional cabin or cargo space. The updated design is expected to feature refreshed alloy wheels and other modern styling improvements.

Read Also: Delhi EV Policy 2.0: Women to Get Up to ₹36,000 Subsidy on E-Two-Wheelers — But There’s a Catch

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