Next-Gen Kia Seltos Spotted Testing: New Design, Hybrid Powertrain Expected for 2025
Next-Gen Kia Seltos Spotted Testing: New Design, Hybrid Powertrain Expected for 2025
The highly anticipated second-generation Kia Seltos has been spied during international testing, hinting at an exciting evolution of the popular SUV. Originally launched in 2019, the Seltos quickly became a favorite among compact SUV enthusiasts, especially in markets like India. The new model promises significant updates, including a revamped design, multiple powertrains, and the potential addition of a hybrid option. Here’s what we know so far about the next-gen Seltos as it gears up for a global debut in 2025.
Spy photos of the next-gen Seltos reveal that while the SUV retains a similar size and silhouette to the current model, the exterior styling has received a noticeable overhaul. The front and rear fascia show substantial changes, giving the SUV a fresh look that sets it apart from its predecessor.
The front end sports an upright nose with two distinct squarish headlamp units flanked by LED daytime running lights that outline the headlamp assemblies. The grille, though heavily covered, appears to take on a more rectangular shape with bold vertical slats—a departure from the current model’s signature “tiger nose” design. These changes suggest that Kia is exploring a new design direction, possibly bringing the Seltos more in line with the styling cues of other recent Kia models like the EV5, which shares similar rear design elements.
While the prototype remains heavily camouflaged, the changes indicate a more rugged, robust design language aimed at enhancing the Seltos' presence on the road. The new Seltos is likely to appeal to SUV buyers looking for an edgy and contemporary look.
Although detailed specifications have not been officially released, the next-gen Seltos is expected to offer a variety of powertrain options catering to diverse customer preferences. Industry insiders speculate that Kia will continue to offer both turbo petrol and diesel options for the Seltos. A petrol-hybrid variant could also be introduced later, aligning with Kia's recent exploration of hybrid powertrains for the Indian market.
Kia’s interest in hybrid options reflects broader industry trends, as automakers aim to reduce emissions and increase fuel efficiency while delivering adequate power for SUV applications. A petrol-hybrid Seltos could appeal to consumers seeking an alternative to fully electric vehicles while offering improved fuel economy and reduced emissions over traditional petrol engines.
While no official interior images are available yet, the next-gen Seltos is expected to feature an upgraded cabin with state-of-the-art technology, more premium materials, and additional space. Given the high standards set by Kia’s recent models, the new Seltos will likely come equipped with an advanced infotainment system, a digital driver display, and a suite of connectivity options. Kia may also incorporate more luxurious touches to elevate the overall feel of the interior, making it more appealing to young, tech-savvy buyers.
Kia has placed a strong emphasis on safety in its recent models, so it’s reasonable to expect the new Seltos to include features like multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control. These upgrades could set the next-gen Seltos apart in the highly competitive compact SUV market.
Kia’s second-generation Seltos is expected to debut globally in the second quarter of 2025. While an exact date for the India launch is still speculative, industry sources suggest that the Seltos could make its way to the Indian market by late 2025 or early 2026.
In the meantime, Kia has an exciting lineup planned for India in 2025. The first will be an all-new compact SUV (codenamed AY), followed by a facelifted version of the Carens MPV and the Carens EV. This strategic rollout will keep Kia’s product lineup fresh in India and could potentially attract new customers as they await the next-generation Seltos.
The new Seltos will enter a fiercely competitive compact SUV market, where it faces rivals such as the Hyundai Creta, Tata Harrier, and Mahindra XUV700. Its combination of a bold design, multiple powertrain choices, and advanced features is aimed at keeping the Seltos relevant among both urban drivers and SUV enthusiasts alike. By introducing a hybrid option, Kia is also preparing to meet the evolving demands of eco-conscious buyers, a segment that is growing in India as well as globally.
The next-generation Seltos signifies Kia’s commitment to innovation and adaptation in a rapidly changing automotive landscape. With a refreshed design, likely hybrid powertrain, and high-tech interior, the 2025 Seltos has the potential to raise the bar in the compact SUV segment once again. Kia’s decision to blend traditional fuel options with emerging hybrid technology underscores the brand's intent to offer versatile solutions for a wide range of drivers.
As the new Seltos moves closer to its global debut, all eyes will be on Kia to see how it refines and reinvents its popular SUV. With the compact SUV market continuing to grow, the next-gen Seltos is well-positioned to build on the success of its predecessor, combining style, substance, and future-ready features. For Kia, the next-gen Seltos isn’t just an update—it’s an opportunity to set a new benchmark in the compact SUV space.
Also Read: