Since its launch in 2019, the Kia Seltos has seen steady demand. It has significantly strengthened Kia’s position in the Indian market. The company is now developing a new-generation model, prototypes of which were recently spotted testing on Indian roads.
The car spotted testing appears similar to the Seltos, but is larger in size. Reports suggest that the SUV could be approximately 100mm longer, increasing cabin and boot space. It’s worth noting that the Sonet and Carens have outpaced the Seltos in sales in recent months.
New Design
Most details of the prototype spotted during testing remain hidden, but its proportions and sharp stance suggest that Kia is aligning the new Seltos with its new global design language. The bonnet is flatter, the grille appears wider, and the headlamps appear more vertical.
At the rear, thin lamps connected by a light bar are reminiscent of the styling of Kia’s larger models. These aren’t major changes, but rather tweaks that bring the Seltos closer to its global counterparts.
Premium and High-Tech
Although the interior hasn’t been fully revealed yet, reports suggest the upcoming model will feature a more digital setup. It’s expected to feature a triple-screen arrangement with driver, infotainment, and passenger screens, similar to the one seen in Kia’s new EV.
Comfort-oriented features like ventilated seats, ambient lighting, and wireless charging are likely to remain. Advanced safety features like ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) may also become standard on higher trims, reflecting a slow but steady shift toward safety technology in this segment.
Engine and Hybrid Options
Kia is unlikely to abandon the existing petrol and diesel engines for the new Seltos. Furthermore, a hybrid version is also likely to be included. While there aren’t many details yet, the hybrid engine could give Kia significant appeal in a market still navigating the intersection between ICEs and EVs.
The new-generation Seltos is expected to launch globally in 2025 and in India in 2026. Updating the Seltos is crucial for Kia, as it remains the brand’s flagship vehicle in India’s crowded SUV segment.