New Kia Seltos unveiled with bold new looks and hybrid power
Words: Andrew Sluys
Kia has unveiled the second-generation Seltos, which sits on a newer platform, is bigger, and finally gives buyers the option of hybrid power.
On the outside, the aesthetic changes have followed in the footsteps of Kia’s electric range, with futuristic lights and boxy styling.
Beneath this new skin, the Seltos has shifted from Kia’s K2 platform to the K3 platform. These new underpinnings are shared with the likes of the Hyundai i30 and Kona.
In terms of sheer size, the Seltos has a 60mm longer wheelbase, it’s 45mm longer overall, and 30mm wider. Luggage space has also been improved to 536 litres from the previous 498.
On the inside, it makes use of a pair of 12.3-inch displays; one for the digital cluster and one for the infotainment system.
As for powertrains, the Seltos will launch with three petrol engine options. The entry grade is the 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with 109kW and 179Nm.
Next is the 1.6-litre turbocharged engine with 132kW and 265Nm. The international release states this option is available with either a seven-speed DCT or a six-speed manual, but it’s unlikely we’ll see the latter in New Zealand.
The current range-topper is a “High Output” version of the same 1.6-litre engine. It makes 141kW and 265Nm, and is paired exclusively with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Kia notes that a hybrid version of the Seltos will be available in 2026, but specific details of this powertrain are yet to be released.
An all-wheel drive system is optional, which also brings with it a multi-link rear suspension system.
Production of this new Seltos kicks off this month in India, and it’s likely that we’ll see it land in New Zealand late 2026.
