Kia Seltos 2026: new design, hybrid version and modern technologies

What changed

Kia launched the Seltos second generation — the model's first full redesign in six years. The key news: a hybrid has appeared in the lineup for the first time, and the brand is placing a major bet on it.

Debut and release timing

Online premiere “The Protagonist”

The all-new Seltos was revealed globally in an online format under the theme "The Protagonist" (the world premiere took place on December 10, 2025).

Launch in the home market

In South Korea the model was officially introduced and launched with a hybrid version, and order taking was announced for the first Tuesday after the presentation (that is January 27, 2026).

Design: a more "off‑road" character and EV motifs

Exterior

Kia emphasizes a "true SUV style": a squarer silhouette, a robust stance and modern lighting. The signature elements mentioned include:

• Star Map signature in the front lighting

• integrated (flush) door handles for improved aerodynamics

• an emphasis on the rear's width through new taillight graphics

Dimensions

Dimensions are listed as: 4 430 mm (L) × 1 830 mm (W) × 1 600 mm (H), wheelbase 2 690 mm — which promises a more spacious cabin.

Trims and flavor versions

The X-Line (a more off‑road look) and GT-Line (sport accents) trims are highlighted separately.

Engineering: hybrid for the first time and a familiar turbo option

Seltos Hybrid (new for the model)

The main premiere is the Seltos Hybrid:

• 141 hp maximum system power

• claimed fuel efficiency: up to 19,5 km/l

• the battery pack is supplied by LG Energy Solution

• there is Smart Regenerative Braking 3.0 (the system selects the regeneration level automatically based on traffic and navigation data)

Price in Korea: starting from 28,98 million won.

1.6 Turbo (an alternative for those who value dynamics)

Also mentioned is the 1.6 petrol turbo version:

• 193 hp

• claimed fuel efficiency: 12,5 km/l

Interior and technologies: large screens and "smart" functions

Multimedia and digital systems

Materials on the new Seltos note:

• a panoramic display cluster: two panels 12,3" + a separate climate control zone

• OTA updates, Digital Key 2, AI voice assistant

Safety assistants (ADAS)

An expanded set of driver aids is mentioned, including:

• Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA 2)

• Lane Following Assist 2 (LFA 2)

• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2 and others.

Positioning and sales expectations

Kia says explicitly that the hybrid is a "bridge" amid the market's shift to electrification, and expects it to take a large share of demand. The 2026 sales target for Korea is stated as 55 000 vehicles.