Presentation of the New Hit
The Seltos model has already proven its popularity worldwide, becoming Kia’s second best-selling car, but until now it has been unavailable for buyers in the UK and Europe. This situation will change this year, as Kia launches the second generation Seltos with an ambitious goal — to overtake the most popular European crossover, the Volkswagen T-Roc.
Positioning and Dimensions
The manufacturer states that the Seltos serves as a gasoline and hybrid alternative to the electric EV3, from which, along with the larger EV5, key design ideas were borrowed. Theoretically, this model occupies a position below the Sportage in Kia’s lineup, although its wheelbase of 2.69 meters is actually 10 millimeters longer than that of the EV3 and Sportage.
This suggests that the next generation Sportage may increase in size (the American version of the Sportage is already longer), which, however, leaves a question regarding the Niro model, which has a shorter wheelbase but a similar overall length — about 4.4 meters.
Engines and Transmissions
The powertrain lineup is, fortunately, simpler to understand, especially in the UK, where only hybrid versions will be available. The hybrid turbocharged 1.6-liter engine is offered in two variants: front-wheel drive with 152 hp or eAWD all-wheel drive with an additional electric motor on the rear axle and 176 hp. Both variants are paired with a dual-clutch automated transmission, and neither can be plugged into the grid for charging.
Interestingly, these hybrid power figures also hint at what to expect in the US market, where Kia has already confirmed a hybrid version of the Seltos. Buyers in continental Europe, in addition to the hybrid, will also get a gasoline Seltos with a 1.6-liter engine producing 178 hp, available with a manual or automated transmission.
Technological Features
Although the Seltos cannot be plugged in for charging, it can itself power other devices. This is not only the first European Kia with the eAWD all-wheel-drive system but also the manufacturer’s first hybrid to offer a vehicle-to-load function for powering external devices directly from the car.
Interior and Trims
The interior offers few surprises for those who have already seen the cabins of Kia’s electric models. Two 12.3-inch displays frame a 5.3-inch climate control screen. Sportier GT versions receive additional equipment. And for buyers who want to emphasize the Seltos’s off-road character, an X-Line trim with a more rugged design is offered.
Deliveries of the Seltos in the UK will begin in the last quarter of 2026, shortly after the first cars with internal combustion engines arrive in Europe.
The planned entry into the European market indicates Kia’s strategic desire to strengthen its position in the key compact crossover segment dominated by Volkswagen. The success of the Seltos could significantly impact market share distribution, offering consumers modern design, hybrid technology, and additional features such as vehicle-to-load, which is becoming increasingly relevant. Rapidly changing market conditions in favor of electric vehicles make the role of such “transitional” hybrid models, which combine familiar technologies with new capabilities, particularly important for the broad mass of buyers.