The Seltos grows up, adopting more modern looks and quite possibly a self-charging hybrid option
Kia has shared the first official teasers of the second-generation Seltos while announcing its premiere for December 10. The subcompact SUV that sits under the Sportage in the brand’s global lineup has been “fully redesigned” and is expected to gain a hybrid powertrain option.
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The Seltos was introduced in 2019 and received a facelift in 2022. Three years later, it is time for a more comprehensive update that aims to keep it relevant in a competitive segment. The teasers confirm the boxier stance of earlier camouflaged prototypes, while revealing sharper details as part of the “Opposites United” styling language.
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Overall, the Korean brand claims that the design of the new Seltos “blends the rugged heritage of past ICE SUVs, with the clean, aerodynamic sophistication of Kia’s latest EVs”. At the front, the slim and vertical LED headlights flank a wide grille with integrated DRLs.
The raising beltline and the floating roofline look similar to the fully electric Kia EV5, as with the horizontal and vertical LED taillights. We can also see the flush door handles, the modern mirrors, and the aluminum trim on the roof and skid plates. The new Seltos will also be available in rugged X-Line and sporty GT-Line trims with mild visual differences.
Subcompact SUV Is Growing Up
While we don’t have the official measurements, the second generation appears to have a larger footprint compared to its predecessor that measures 4,365 mm (171.9 inches) long, which could result in a more spacious cabin. There are no teaser shots of the interior, but the company promises a “high-tech character” hinting at the latest digital cockpit, fresh interior trim, and more sophisticated ADAS.
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As for the powertrain options, earlier reports suggest that the new Seltos will be available with gasoline and hybrid setups, likely including an e-AWD variant. Possible contenders include an improved version of the turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and the self-charging hybrid powertrain found on the Hyundai Kona and Kia Niro stablemates.
The Seltos is Kia’s global subcompact SUV and will be available in various markets around the world. The new generation might also reach Europe, where it could be positioned under the Sportage. We will learn everything about the new model during its official unveiling on December 10.
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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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