The second-generation of the small SUV grows larger, adds tougher styling, and preps for its first-ever hybrid version
Kia has unveiled the new generation of the Seltos, presenting a model that’s been scaled up, toughened, and thoroughly modernized inside. At its core, Kia wants the Seltos to become a “protagonist” in its global lineup, a point it emphasized throughout the launch event.
The new Seltos adopts a sharper design language that brings it closer in line with Kia’s latest releases. Up front, it gets a more futuristic face with vertically stacked split headlights. The primary lighting elements are tucked into a wider grille, which pairs with a redesigned skid plate finished in Satin Silver.
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From the side, it shares clear visual DNA with the EV5, notably in the flush door handles and generous plastic cladding. The rising beltline and floating roof nod to the first-gen Seltos, while a new diagonal crease through the rear doors adds a bit more tension to the silhouette.
At the rear, the look is capped off with an elongated roof spoiler and a new lighting setup that runs the width of the tailgate, punctuated by hourglass-shaped vertical extensions.
In addition to the base model, the new Seltos will come in two distinct trims: the sport-oriented GT-Line and the more rugged X-Line. Both feature the same exterior package, with the difference being in the finish: body-colored accents for the GT-Line, dark gunmetal for the X-Line.
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Three new paint options join the updated color palette, named Iceberg Green, Gravity Gray, and Matte Magma Red.
A Step Up in Size
The new Seltos has grown in size compared to its predecessor, inching closer to the EU-spec Sportage. The new generation of the subcompact SUV measures 4,430 mm (174.4 inches) long, 1,830 mm (72.1 inches) wide, and 1,600 mm (63 inches) tall with a 2,690 mm (105.9 inches) wheelbase.
That’s a 45 mm (1.8 inch) increase in length and 30 mm (1.2 inches) in width over the outgoing US version, along with 60 mm (2.4 inches) of added space between the wheels.
For reference, the EU-market Kia Sportage measures 4,515 mm (177.8 inches) long, 1,865 mm (73.4 inches) wide, and 1,645 mm (64.8 inches) tall, with a slightly shorter 2,680 mm (105.5 inches) wheelbase. The US-spec Sportage is even larger at 4,660 mm (183.5 inches) long, 1,865 mm (73.4 inches) wide, and 1,665 mm (65.6 inches) tall, riding on an extended 2,755 mm (108.5 inches) wheelbase.
So while the Seltos is still clearly a size down from either version of the Sportage, the gap, particularly with the EU model, is noticeably smaller than before.
A Modern Interior
The interior has also been overhauled, looking like a spitting image of Kia’s electric lineup. The familiar digital cockpit comprises dual 12.3-inch displays and a dedicated panel for the climate controls.
It is joined by slim climate vents and a few physical buttons on the center console. The infotainment is compatible with over-the-air updates and features an AI Assistant.
Other available goodies include a panoramic sunroof, head-up display, premium audio from Harman Kardon or Bose, and 64-color ambient lighting. Finally, the SUV gains a suite of more sophisticated ADAS.
The larger footprint should translate to a more spacious cabin. Kia says the new interior has been tailored with families in mind, offering greater room and flexibility. Practical touches include a reclining rear bench and the Kia AddGear mounting system for accessories.
The trunk now holds 536 liters (18.9 cubic feet), which is 103 liters (3.6 cubic feet) more than before, helped by a foldable, dual-level cargo floor.
ICE And Hybrid Options
Underneath, the Seltos switches to the upgraded K3 platform, which also underpins the Kia Niro and K4, as well as Hyundai’s Kona and Elantra. Kia highlights gains in structural rigidity, noise insulation, and chassis balance.
Engine choices at launch include a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter unit with 147 hp (110 kW / 149 PS), and a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine producing either 178 hp (132 kW / 180 PS) or 190 hp (142 kW / 193 PS), depending on the market.
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Transmission options vary by configuration and include a six-speed manual, seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, or an eight-speed automatic with a torque converter. An all-wheel-drive system is available, paired with multi-link rear suspension and terrain modes for Snow, Mud, and Sand.
A hybrid variant, the first ever for the Seltos nameplate, is set to arrive in 2026. While technical specs haven’t been released, Kia says it will feature improved efficiency, vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability, and a newly developed regenerative braking system.
Production of the second-generation Seltos is scheduled to begin before the end of the year. Initial rollout will take place in India, followed by launches in Korea, North America, Europe, and China over the course of 2026. The U.S. version is slated to arrive as a 2027 model.
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Thanos Pappas, a product design engineer by trade, has been wading through automotive journalism for… Read full bio

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