Kia entered the Indian market with a bang when it introduced the Seltos in August 2024. The SUV took the passenger vehicle market by storm which was witnessing a transition in favour of SUVs instead of hatchbacks and sedans. In a little over four years, the Korean carmaker has already sold over 5 lakh units of Seltos in India till date, while clocking over 1.5 lakh exports during the same period.
The Seltos is the highest-selling model for Kia till date, consistently averaging 9,000 units every month. The mid-size SUV received a mid-cycle facelift in July last year. Multiple reports indicate that Kia is already developing a second generation model of Seltos. Recently, a test mule of the next-gen Seltos was spotted in South Korea.
New-gen Kia Seltos: Expected design
Now, another test mule of the upcoming iteration of Seltos has been caught on camera, this time on Indian roads. The latest prototype seen in the video uploaded on YouTube by Power Stroke PS, is completely wrapped under covers, hiding every exterior detail. The only visible visual detail are the new L-shaped LED taillamps inspired by EV9 which were also visible in the previous spy images.
Speaking of which, the previous spy shots revealed more details such as a completely redesigned front fascia that looks upright with squared LED headlights and LED DRLs flanking a revised grille rectangular with vertical slats. Other details visible in the previous spy images include dual-tone ORVMs and a slightly unconventional alloy wheel design with a diamond-cut finish. The prototype looks wider and longer than the existing model which adds to the SUV’s road presence.
New-gen Kia Seltos: Expected powertrain
There are no images of its interiors yet but we expect it to be modern and equipped with all bells and whistles as the current model. We also have no confirmation on the powertrain to be offered on the new-gen Seltos but we expect Kia to offer the same engine options as the current model. These include a 158 bhp, 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine, and a 114 bhp, 1.5-litre diesel engine.
Reports also indicate the introduction of a hybrid powertrain in the new Seltos which could potentially replace the existing 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol motor. The new 1.6-litre hybrid petrol engine will push out 141 bhp and has been sourced from the new Hyundai Kona Hybrid. Transmission options will include 6-speed manual, 6-speed clutchless manual, 6-speed torque converter, CVT, and 7-speed dual-clutch automatic.