During its 2025 Investor Day event, Kia officially confirmed that the upcoming generation of its popular midsize SUV, the Seltos, will feature a hybrid powertrain. This move marks a significant step in the company’s electrification strategy for the Indian market. The hybrid version is expected to debut globally with the next-gen Seltos in the latter half of 2025.
Hybrid Seltos Set to Strengthen Kia’s India Strategy
Kia has been actively exploring hybrid technology for its Indian lineup, and now it’s clear that the upcoming Seltos internally codenamed SP3i will indeed be offered with a hybrid option in India. This aligns with Kia’s broader goal of having hybrid vehicles account for 25 percent of its sales in the country by the year 2030.
Expected Powertrain: Electrified 1.5-Litre Petrol Engine
Although Kia has yet to disclose official technical specifications for the Seltos hybrid, insiders suggest it will feature an electrified version of the existing 1.5-litre, four-cylinder, naturally aspirated petrol engine. This hybrid powertrain is also likely to be introduced in Kia’s upcoming three-row SUV for India, expanding its hybrid portfolio in the market.
Broader Electrification Targets for India
In addition to the hybrid push, Kia has set ambitious targets for electric vehicle (EV) sales in India. While hybrids are expected to make up a quarter of the brand’s total sales in the country by 2030, EVs are projected to contribute around 18 percent. This reflects a dual-pronged approach, catering to varying levels of electrification among Indian consumers.
Next-Gen Seltos to Feature Bold New Design and Features
Spy shots of the next-generation Seltos undergoing road tests in India reveal a vehicle that is set for a comprehensive design overhaul. Drawing inspiration from Kia’s latest range of electric vehicles, the new Seltos will sport a completely reimagined exterior and an interior that emphasizes advanced technology and user convenience.
Multiple Engine Options to Continue
Despite the introduction of a hybrid powertrain, Kia will continue to offer the existing engine choices in the new Seltos. This includes the 1.5-litre turbo-petrol and the diesel engine variants, providing customers with a range of options based on their preferences and driving needs.
India Launch Anticipated in 2026
Following its global premiere in the second half of 2025, the next-generation Kia Seltos is expected to arrive in India sometime in 2026. With its refreshed design, enhanced features, and a new hybrid variant, the SUV is poised to strengthen Kia’s presence in the competitive midsize segment.