Introduced in June 2019, the Kia Seltos received its mid-life facelift in June 2022. In the U.S., the popularity of the small SUV is soaring. Last year, it created a new annual sales record, with 60,053 units delivered, and it is outselling both the Niro and the Soul. In July 2024, Kia said that its subcompact SUV set a new sales record, which signifies that the best is yet to come from this nameplate.
Development of the second-gen Kia Seltos is underway, with a hybrid version expected to join the line-up. The first-ever Kia Seltos Hybrid is set to become the brand’s most affordable hybrid SUV in many markets, with the U.S. also likely in contention for the electrified subcompact.
Kia Seltos Hybrid confirmed internally
On November 6, 2023, Chosun Biz released a report claiming that the successor to the Seltos will have a hybrid powertrain. The plan was apparently confirmed during the Kia Labor-Management Employment Stability Committee, with production of the Seltos electrified variant allotted to the Autoland Gwangju factory.
It’s safe to assume that the South Korean publication was referring to the second-generation Seltos, as the current model is almost five years old, and is nearing the end of its lifecycle. The small SUV has brought immense success to Kia in South Korea and emerging markets. In the U.S., the Seltos’ sales surpassed the whole Niro family in 2023.
To feature the next-gen Hybrid system
At the 2024 Kia CEO Investor Day on April 5, 2024, the company’s President and CEO, Ho Sung Song, confirmed the development of a next-gen hybrid system for subcompact Kia vehicles. While Song didn’t confirm the recipients, the Seltos, which is now a top-seller, should receive the system on priority.
In response to the recent increase in Hybrid demand, we plan to develop and introduce a new HEV engine. The new hybrid system is set to be developed in two sizes, subcompact & midsize HEVs, and a large-sized HEV.
Ho Sung Song, Kia’s President & CEO, at the Kia CEO Investor Day on April 5, 2024
While details are scarce, a new 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine-based hybrid system would enable Kia to price the subcompact model competitively, especially in emerging markets, offering a balance of power, efficiency, and cost. “Compared to the existing Hybrid system, we expect significant improvements in power, torque, and fuel economy,” Song said at the CEO Investor Day.
The company has a hybrid powertrain that uses a 1.6-liter turbocharged gas engine which it employs in the Sportage Hybrid and Carnival Hybrid.
Will take on Kia’s new family look
Though test prototypes have yet to surface, we anticipate the next-gen Seltos to boast a more commanding and upscale design. Drawing from recent Kia models, it’s a given that the Seltos will feature the constellation-inspired Star Map lighting elements.
In our rendering, the Seltos is envisioned with vertical grille slots, a lower bumper with a skid plate for a rugged look, a floating roof effect, flush door handles, and an expansive greenhouse to enhance the SUV’s presence.
The interior of the Seltos is also slated for a significant update. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster paired with a 12.3-inch infotainment display, both supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, should be the headline.
A column-mounted gear selector is anticipated to free up additional storage space in the front cabin. Other expected features include a wireless phone charger, Digital Key, and a premium audio system, ensuring a well-rounded and modern equipment package.
Hybrids & PHEVs to drive alongside EVs
Kia may be on an EV onslaught, but there are customers who cannot commit to EVs, be it because of higher cost, the lack of charging infrastructure, or insufficient driving range. The company will have to cater to these customers while keeping in mind its carbon neutrality goals, and that’s where the hybrids and plug-in hybrids step in. Recently, Kia expanded its UV hybrid line-up with the 2025 Carnival Hybrid, and offers Hybrid & PHEV variants in the Niro, Sportage, and Sorento carlines.
Release Date
Production of the Kia Seltos Hybrid will start in 2025, as per the report. Thus, we think the U.S. launch of the next-gen Seltos series could take place in early 2026, six years after the release of the first-gen model. It’s early to make predictions of the availability of the Seltos electrified variant in the states, but we’re sure that Kia’s local office is keeping a close eye on the developments.
Featured image: TopElectricSUV’s exclusive rendering of the next-gen Kia Seltos Hybrid.
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 16 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading CEOs and vehicle developers from around the world.
