The Next-Gen Kia Seltos is set for its global premiere on December 10, 2025, promising a bolder, bigger design tailored for Indian roads. This second-generation Kia Seltos builds on the massive success of its predecessor, which dominated the midsize SUV segment with over 7 lakh units sold. Expect sharper styling, advanced tech, and powerful engines to challenge rivals like Hyundai Creta and Maruti Grand Vitara.
Indian buyers love SUVs that blend style, safety, and value. The new Kia Seltos teaser hints at a fresh identity, making it a top pick for families cruising highways or city streets. With prices likely starting around ₹11.30 lakh, it stays competitive in the hotly contested compact SUV market.
Striking Exterior Design
The Next-Gen Kia Seltos debuts a radically evolved front fascia with Kia’s signature Tiger Nose grille, now wider and chrome-lined for premium appeal. Vertically stacked LED DRLs flank it, paired with horizontally split headlights featuring C-shaped signatures and LED welcome animations that light up dramatically at dusk.
Blackened pillars create a floating roof effect, enhancing the sleek profile. Star Map connected taillights at the rear add a modern touch, while a panoramic sunroof teases open skies for road trips from Mumbai to Goa. This design aligns with global Kia models like the Sorento, but tuned for India’s diverse terrains.
Overall dimensions may grow slightly, offering better road presence without compromising maneuverability in tight urban lanes. Alloy wheels and bold creases promise a muscular stance that turns heads on NH44.
Premium and Tech-Packed Interiors
Step inside the new Seltos, and you’ll find a cabin inspired by the recent Kia Carens Clavis, with dual-tone themes in beige-black or brown-black. A 10.25-inch touchscreen dominates the dashboard, supporting wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for seamless navigation during festive traffic.
Ambient lighting strips and a head-up display (HUD) elevate the vibe, perfect for long drives to hill stations. Rear passengers get ample legroom, ventilated seats in top trims, and USB chargers—ideal for Indian families packing for vacations. Leather-wrapped steering and a digital instrument cluster add luxury without fuss.
The centre console features an electronic parking brake and wireless charging, making everyday commutes feel upscale. With a panoramic sunroof overhead, the space feels airy and inviting.
Powerful Engine Options
The Next-Gen Kia Seltos retains proven powertrains for Indian tastes, starting with a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol (115PS, 144Nm) paired to 6-speed manual or CVT, delivering around 17-17.7 kmpl. For thrill-seekers, the 1.5-litre turbo-petrol (160PS, 253Nm) comes with 6-speed iMT or 7-speed DCT, hitting 17.9 kmpl city-highway mix.
Diesel fans rejoice: the 1.5-litre diesel (116PS, 250Nm) offers 19-20.7 kmpl with manual or TC options, suiting highway hauls. Rumours of a hybrid variant could boost efficiency further, addressing rising fuel costs in metros like Delhi.
| Engine Type | Power/Torque | Transmission | Mileage (kmpl) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5L Petrol NA | 115PS/144Nm | MT/CVT | 17-17.7 |
| 1.5L Turbo Petrol | 160PS/253Nm | iMT/DCT | 17.7-17.9 |
| 1.5L Diesel | 116PS/250Nm | MT/TC | 19-20.7 |
All get a 50L fuel tank and FWD, with potential AWD in select trims for monsoon adventures.
Top-Tier Safety and Features
Safety leads the Kia Seltos new model with 6 airbags standard across variants, plus ultra-high tensile steel body for crash protection. Advanced driver aids include forward collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, lane keep assist, and 360-degree camera—crucial for India’s chaotic roads.
Features like adaptive cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, and tire pressure monitoring (TPMS) come in higher specs. Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) and hill-start assist ensure confidence on ghat sections. Expect 5-star NCAP potential, matching Kia’s safety reputation.
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Level 2 ADAS: Auto emergency braking, driver attention warning
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Comfort Tech: Dual-zone AC, powered seats, Bose audio
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Convenience: Keyless entry, push-button start, rear AC vents
Pricing and Rivals in India
Expected ex-showroom prices for Next-Gen Kia Seltos range from ₹11.30 lakh to ₹21 lakh, with more mid-spec variants for value buyers. Bookings may open post-launch, with deliveries by early 2026.
It squares off against Hyundai Creta (₹11-20L), Maruti Grand Vitara (₹10.99-19L), MG Astor, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, and Honda Elevate. The Seltos edges with bolder looks and tech, but Creta leads in sales volume.
For India readers, the Kia Seltos 2025 promises segment-best service (unlimited km warranty) and resale value. Test drives will reveal if it tops charts again.
FAQs
Q1: When is the Next-Gen Kia Seltos launching in India?
A: Global reveal on December 10, 2025; India launch expected early 2026.
Q2: What are the engine options?
A: 1.5L petrol NA/turbo and 1.5L diesel, with manuals, automatics, and up to 20.7 kmpl.
Q3: Does it have a panoramic sunroof?
A: Yes, confirmed in teasers for top variants.
Q4: What safety features are standard?
A: 6 airbags, ESC, hill assist, and ADAS in higher trims.
Q5: Expected price range?
A: ₹11.30 lakh to ₹21 lakh ex-showroom.
