Kia has officially unveiled the new generation of its compact crossover, the Seltos. The car has become larger, received a more severe design, and modern technical features. The manufacturer positions the updated model as one of the key ones in its global lineup.
New Design and Styles
The new Seltos has received a sharper and more technological design, bringing it closer to the latest Kia models. The front end features separate vertically positioned headlights. The main LED elements are integrated into a wider radiator grille, which combines with an updated bumper with a satin silver finish.
The side view shows shared features with the electric EV5 crossover, particularly in the flush door handles and massive plastic wheel arch cladding. The window line rises upwards, and the roof is executed in a “floating” style, a nod to the first generation of the model. A new diagonal crease on the rear doors adds dynamism to the silhouette.
The rear end is finished with an extended roof spoiler and a full-width LED light strip that stretches across the entire width of the tailgate, with vertical extensions in an hourglass shape.
In addition to the base version, the new Seltos will be offered in two special trims: the sporty GT-Line and the off-road X-Line. They will differ in trim details: the GT-Line will have body-colored accents, while the X-Line will have dark, matte elements. Three new shades have been added to the color palette: Iceberg Green, Gravity Gray, and Matte Magma Red.
Increased Dimensions
The new generation Seltos has grown significantly compared to its predecessor, approaching the dimensions of the European version of the Kia Sportage. The overall dimensions of the new crossover are 4,430 mm in length, 1,830 mm in width, and 1,600 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,690 mm.
This is 45 mm longer and 30 mm wider than the previous model for the American market, and the wheelbase has increased by 60 mm. For comparison, the European Sportage is 4,515 mm long, 1,865 mm wide, 1,645 mm high, and has a wheelbase of 2,680 mm. The American version of the Sportage is even larger. Thus, the difference in size, especially with the European model, has significantly decreased.
Updated Interior
The car’s interior is completely updated and resembles the interiors of Kia’s electric models. The digital instrument panel consists of two 12.3-inch screens and a separate block of buttons for climate control. The design is complemented by narrow ventilation deflectors and a small number of physical buttons on the center console.
The multimedia system supports over-the-air (OTA) updates and is equipped with artificial intelligence as a voice assistant. Available options include a panoramic sunroof, a head-up display, a premium audio system from Harman Kardon or Bose, as well as 64-color ambient lighting. The crossover has also received an expanded package of driver assistance systems (ADAS).
The increased exterior dimensions have positively impacted interior space. The manufacturer claims the interior was developed with family needs in mind, offering more space and flexibility. Useful details include a rear seat adjustable for recline angle and the Kia AddGear accessory mounting system. The trunk volume has increased to 536 liters, which is 103 liters more than before, thanks to a two-level folding floor.
Engines and Hybrid
The car is built on the updated K3 platform, which is also used on the Kia Niro, K4, Hyundai Kona, and Elantra models. The manufacturer claims increased body rigidity, improved noise insulation, and a more balanced chassis.
At the start of sales, buyers will be offered two gasoline engines: a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter with 147 hp and a turbocharged 1.6-liter, which, depending on the market, will develop 178 or 190 hp. Transmission options are a six-speed manual, a seven-speed robotic dual-clutch, or an eight-speed torque-converter automatic. An all-wheel-drive version is also available with a multi-link rear suspension and special driving modes for snow, mud, and sand.
The hybrid version, the first in the history of the Seltos model, is set to appear in 2026. Although technical details have not yet been disclosed, Kia promises improved efficiency, a vehicle-to-load (V2L) function, and a new regenerative braking system.
Production of the second-generation Seltos is set to begin by the end of this year. The first market will be India, and then during 2026 the model will begin to be sold in Korea, North America, Europe, and China. The version for the USA is expected as a 2027 model year vehicle.
The Seltos update clearly fits into Kia’s overall strategy of elevating the status of its models. The increase in size, the quality of interior trim, and the appearance of a hybrid version make it much more competitive in the crowded compact crossover segment. This is no longer just an affordable car, but a technologically equipped model capable of competing with market leaders in terms of comfort and equipment. The success of this model could significantly strengthen the brand’s position, especially in the European market, where demand for compact and economical SUVs remains high.