The All-New Kia Seltos Hybrid SUV
If you think we’ve reached peak SUV you’d be in for a shock, because Kia has launched a new C-SUV segment car. And when I say new, I mean new to the U.K. and Europe but not elsewhere, because - surprisingly to us at least - the Seltos is Kia’s second best selling car.
At 4,430 millimetres in length and with a wheelbase of 2,690 millimetres the Seltos offers plenty of versatility and practicality expected with a boxy design and 536 litres of boot space. It is also perhaps the replacement for the now ageing Kia Niro, which is a fine car, but beginning to show its age in the era of AI assistants, over-the-air software updates and Netflix onboard.
There a three Trims: Baseline, GT-Line and X-Line, with the latter offering a more rugged look. Baseline offers a standard feeling car with the GT-Line givemn a sporty look and feel.
Inside customers will be greeted with three displays made up from an integrated panoramic wide display for the drivers display, climate control and the central, multi-media display.
Customers will also be greeted with the interior wrapped in ambient lighting and a choice of 64 colour illumination options. There is a wide panoramic sunroof for some star gazing, too.
The second row of seats reclines like an economy class airline seat, but for a more premium experience, customers can immerse themselves in the Harman Kardon audio system.
Many manufacturers now offer a digital key from their smartphones which can also be shared with friends and family members with ease. Just walk up to the car, open the door, get in and driveaway. The smartphone key can replace the physical key entirely.
The Seltos is a connected car and with that comes the Kia Connect Store for digital entertainment options, including Disney+, Netflix and YouTube.
Supporting that is an AI Assistant powered with natural, conversational interaction and Over-the-air (OTA) software updates keeping the Kia fresh and future-proofed as the car ages.
Kia is offering the Seltos as a pure ICE car with a 1.6-litre T-GDI turbocharged petrol engine, delivering 180 PS and 265 Nm, with either a 6-speed manual transmission or 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
The hybrid variant in 2WD offers 154PS, while the e-AWD version achieves 178PS.
All-wheel drive is available on both ICE and HEV powertrains with the latter adopting Hyundai Motor Group’s e-AWD system that enables precise torque distribution, improved traction, and enhanced stability.
Full UK specifications, line-up and pricing will be announced in Q3 of 2026 with the Seltos going on sale shortly after.
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About the Author
Graeme Cobb is a lifelong car enthusiast with a passion for writing about cars, EVs, industry updates and more.
You can find Graeme on 𝕏 at @graeme_cobb or YouTube @REV-EV.