🚗 Bold Transformation: Next-Gen Kia Seltos Spotted Testing Ahead of India Launch

By EV Update IndiaMay 19, 2025

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Next-Gen Kia Seltos has officially stepped into the spotlight, as the highly anticipated SUV was recently snapped testing on Indian roads. Covered in camouflage, the test mule offers an exciting glimpse into Kia’s fresh design direction and hints at major upgrades that go beyond just styling. With design elements inspired by Kia’s latest models and the possibility of a hybrid powertrain, the next-gen iteration is all set to redefine expectations in the compact SUV segment.

The Next-Gen Kia Seltos will represent the second generation of this popular SUV, and its arrival could significantly disrupt the market. Let’s explore all the major details we know so far.

✨ Next-Gen Kia Seltos: Design Inspired by EV9 and Syros

The design of the Kia Seltos clearly adopts cues from Kia’s global design philosophy – “Opposites United.” This was evident in the test mule’s heavily camouflaged body, which showcased new design elements such as:

Vertically stacked LED headlamps
Angular and slim vertical DRLs
Concave front grille design
Refreshed fog lamp housing
Horizontal bumper slats
New set of alloy wheels

The Next-Gen Kia Seltos borrows heavily from Kia’s larger models like the EV9 and Syros, ensuring it will have a much more futuristic, bold, and sophisticated presence than its predecessor.

🛋️ Next-Gen Kia Seltos: Interior and Features (Expected)

While the test mule didn’t reveal the cabin details, expectations are running high for a significant interior revamp. Kia is likely to equip the Kia Seltos with:

Dual-screen dashboard layout
Connected car technology
Over-the-air (OTA) software updates
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
Premium upholstery and trim
Ambient lighting options

The interior upgrades will align with global standards, bringing luxury and tech enhancements to the compact SUV category.

New-Gen Kia Seltos Spotted Testing In India — Photo Credit: gaadiwaadi

⚙️ Next-Gen Kia Seltos: Powertrain and Hybrid Possibility

The Kia Seltos is expected to retain its current engine lineup, which includes:

1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine
1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine
1.5-litre diesel engine

What’s truly exciting is the possible introduction of a self-charging hybrid powertrain, which would mark the first hybrid offering for the Seltos in India. While Kia has not officially confirmed the hybrid variant, it is expected to debut later, possibly in a phased launch.

The hybrid version could appeal to eco-conscious buyers looking for efficiency without compromising on performance and convenience.

📅 Next-Gen Kia Seltos: Launch Timeline and Production

As of now, there’s no official word from Kia about the launch date of the Next-Gen Kia Seltos, but sources indicate that production may begin later in 2025, with the official unveiling expected by the end of the year. Kia could reveal more information in the coming months as the test rounds intensify.

📌 Why the Kia Seltos Matters for the Indian Market

The Kia Seltos comes at a time when buyers are seeking feature-loaded, tech-savvy, and fuel-efficient SUVs. By combining refreshed design, modern interior features, and the possibility of hybrid tech, the next-gen Seltos aims to challenge its rivals like Hyundai Creta, Maruti Grand Vitara, and Toyota Hyryder.

Kia has been a dominant player in the compact SUV space, and with this new-generation model, the brand is poised to set new benchmarks once again.

🏁 Final Thoughts on the Next-Gen Kia Seltos

The Next-Gen Kia Seltos promises to bring major improvements in design, performance, and technology. If the rumors about the hybrid powertrain prove true, this SUV could become one of the most compelling options in its segment. Car buyers looking for futuristic styling, upgraded features, and possibly greener tech should definitely keep an eye on the Next-Gen Kia Seltos.

As we await the official reveal, the excitement around this model is only expected to grow.