KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Next-gen Kia Seltos leaked in a Hyundai video
- Possibly the new gen hybrid model without wraps
- Launch expected around festive season of 2025
Kia Seltos is one of the most successful of Kia's models, has stood the test of time, and is one of the fiercest competitors of the Hyundai Creta. After a series of spy shots and scoops hinting at possible inclusions with the next-gen model, the Kia Seltos hybrid might have been fully revealed in Hyundai's design studio video. Although it is parked somewhere in the backdrop, there are reasons we believe this is it! Read on to check out the images and what hints at this being Kia's next big shot. But before that, make sure to join the 91wheels WhatsApp Community to never miss out on any latest news and automotive updates.
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New Gen Kia Seltos Probably Spotted Without Wraps
Hyundai's latest documentary, 'The Great Heritage Car,' may have inadvertently revealed a key future model from its sister brand Kia, the next-generation Seltos, likely the upcoming Kia Seltos Hybrid. In the closing moments of the film, an uncovered SUV makes a brief appearance, noticeably more finished than the other camouflaged vehicles shown.
The SUV in question features a more upright front fascia and a triangular rear-quarter window, design cues that echo Kia's new design philosophy. Its side profile and glasshouse design strongly resemble what we've seen in recent spy shots, further fueling speculation that this is our first unofficial look at the production-ready new-gen Kia Seltos Hybrid. If true, it signals a bold new direction for one of Kia's most popular nameplates.
Inside, the Seltos is expected to continue its march upmarket. Earlier spy images have revealed revised, more ergonomic seats with orange contrast accents, integrated USB ports in the seatbacks, and a dashboard that appears to embrace a more digital, feature-packed layout. Rumors point to the inclusion of Kia's new 30-inch 'Trinity' display running Kia Connect 2.0, likely borrowed from the Syros, further suggesting that the new-gen Seltos will lean heavily into tech and premium appeal.
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Powertrain Details
Kia's move to introduce a hybrid powertrain for the next-gen Seltos marks a significant step in its electrification roadmap. This fits squarely within Kia's broader strategy to roll out nine hybrid models globally by 2028, reinforcing its shift towards greener mobility solutions. Expected to share its underpinnings with the Hyundai Kona Hybrid, the new system could pair a 1.6-litre petrol engine with an electric motor to produce a combined output of 140bhp and 265Nm of torque. Notably, the hybrid option is likely to co-exist with the current petrol and diesel engine offerings, giving customers a wider range of choices.
As for the launch timeline, the updated Seltos, potentially with its hybrid avatar, is expected to debut around the festive season in 2025, likely commanding a slight premium over the current models.
Verdict
The next-gen Seltos with a hybrid powertrain could mean a tougher fight for the Maruti-Toyota partner SUVs in the electric motor setup space. While Kia has offered some beautifuly designed models until now, the Seltos is going to stay in the same league, at least that's what the spy shots until now suggests. As for the equipment list, be prepared for an even more computerised cabin where you can expect a lot more of the conveneience, functional, and safety features.
