Kia India recently launched the second-generation Kia Seltos in the Indian market, introducing substantial upgrades in design, features, and platform. Despite being a fresh launch, the SUV has been spotted undergoing road tests once again, hinting at the development of a new powertrain option. The latest-gen Seltos features a completely redesigned exterior, a more premium cabin with advanced technology and comfort features, and is built on Kia's newer K3 platform, which is expected to support electrified powertrains in the future.
Hybrid Version Speculation Gains Momentum
With test mules spotted soon after the launch of the updated model, speculation about a hybrid version of the Seltos is intensifying. While Kia has not officially confirmed anything, the testing activity suggests the company could be evaluating a hybrid setup. A hybrid-powered Seltos would improve fuel efficiency and allow it to better compete with rivals that are increasingly focusing on strong-hybrid technology.
Expected Powertrain Details
Details regarding the hybrid powertrain are still under wraps. However, the Seltos is expected to use a self-charging strong-hybrid setup rather than a plug-in hybrid system. Recently, the Seltos Hybrid was showcased at the New York International Auto Show for the US market, equipped with a 1.6-litre petrol-hybrid powertrain and all-wheel drive. The India-spec version, however, is expected to feature a smaller 1.5-litre hybrid unit with front-wheel drive.
Design and Styling
The hybrid version of the Kia Seltos is expected to retain the same overall design as the standard model, with no major visual changes. The front of the new Seltos draws inspiration from Kia's larger global SUVs, with a bold grille featuring a stepped pattern and vertical gunmetal inserts stretching almost the entire width of the nose. Squared-off LED headlamps sit at either corner, and the DRLs create a vertical light signature accentuated by a lightning-bolt-shaped LED element at the outer edges. The bumper includes contrasting black cladding and rectangular fog lamp surrounds, adding to the SUV's sturdy look.
On the sides, the shoulder line is more pronounced, the wheel arches are chunkier, and the SUV gets newly designed 18-inch wheels. Traditional pull-type handles have been replaced with flush-fitted units. Kia has retained its signature pinch in the window line near the C-pillar, which now flows into a blacked-out element visually linking the rear quarter glass with the windscreen, creating a wraparound effect. At the rear, the number plate holder has been moved to the bumper for a cleaner tailgate, and the highlight is the new inverted L-shaped LED light signature.
