Alright, let's talk about one of the most popular SUVs on Indian roads. Kia has been dropping some seriously exciting teasers for the second-generation Kia Seltos, and it looks like they're going for a complete reinvention. Forget a simple facelift; this is a full-blown revolution. Ahead of its big reveal on December 10, 2025, the glimpses we've seen suggest a bigger, bolder, and way more tech-savvy SUV is on its way.
Key Highlights
- ✓ The next-gen Seltos features a completely revolutionary, boxy design with zero resemblance to the current model.
- ✓ It's confirmed to get the most requested feature in India: a massive panoramic sunroof.
- ✓ The interior is getting a major tech overhaul, expected to feature dual 12.3-inch screens.
- ✓ A strong-hybrid system is likely on the cards, which could be a huge deal for fuel efficiency.
- ✓ The global debut is set for December 10, with an expected India launch in January 2026.
A Radical New Look From Every Angle
The first thing that hits you is the design. Kia has thrown the old blueprint out the window. The new Seltos shares absolutely no resemblance to the current model, opting for a much more upright and commanding presence. The front fascia is now dominated by a rectangular grille and a completely new two-part headlamp cluster. You get a square housing for the main lamps, paired with striking vertical LED strips on the edges that double as DRLs.
It doesn't stop there. The bonnet is almost completely flat, which really emphasizes that new, boxy silhouette. It gives the Seltos a more rugged, confident stance that’s bound to turn heads. The teasers also confirm sleek flush door handles, which add a premium touch, and a set of new alloy wheels with a pretty funky design. It’s clear they're aiming for a very modern aesthetic.
Around the back, the changes are just as dramatic. The next-gen Seltos will feature a C-shaped connected LED taillamp cluster, a design cue we've seen on the Carens Clavis. And for those who love a bit of attitude, the teaser showcases the car in a matte black finish, heavily hinting that an X-Line version will be ready to go right from launch. This isn't just an update; it's a whole new personality.
Inside the Cabin: A Tech-Lover's Dream
The exterior is a showstopper, but Kia knows the interior is where you live. The big headline news here is the inclusion of a panoramic sunroof. This has been one of the most sought-after features by Indian buyers, and its arrival in the Seltos is a massive win. The teaser even ends with a sweeping shot of it, so you know Kia is proud of this addition.
But the upgrades are more than just a view of the sky. The dashboard is expected to get a huge digital makeover, likely featuring dual 12.3-inch screens for the infotainment system and the driver's digital instrument cluster. This seamless, wide-screen setup gives the cabin a very premium and futuristic feel. We're also expecting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to be part of the package for a truly cord-free experience.
Comfort and convenience are also getting a boost. The new Seltos is tipped to get a powered co-driver’s seat with a boss mode, ventilated rear seats (a blessing in our climate!), and a powered tailgate. While these new features are exciting, Kia is smart enough to carry over the things we already love, like dual-zone climate control, ventilated front seats, a wireless phone charger, and that punchy 8-speaker Bose sound system.
Familiar Power with a Hybrid Twist?
So, with all these changes, what's happening under the hood? Well, it seems Kia is sticking with a winning formula. The new Seltos is expected to retain its proven lineup of engines here in India. That means we'll likely see the reliable 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, which produces 115 PS and 144 Nm of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a CVT.
For those who crave more performance, the fantastic 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine will also be on offer. This unit churns out a healthy 160 PS and 253 Nm of torque and will probably come with a 6-speed manual and a quick-shifting 7-speed DCT. And of course, the ever-popular 1.5-litre diesel engine (116 PS, 250 Nm) will continue to cater to the mileage-conscious, with its 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic options.
Here's the really exciting part, though. There's strong speculation and hints from test sightings that Kia might introduce the next-gen Seltos with a strong-hybrid powertrain. A self-charging hybrid variant would be a game-changer, putting it in direct competition with the likes of the Maruti Grand Vitara and Toyota Hyryder. It remains to be seen if this option will make it to India, but the possibility alone is enough to get us excited.
A Fortress of Safety Features
Kia is also doubling down on safety. The new Seltos is expected to come with an upgraded Level 2 ADAS suite, which means more advanced driver-assistance features to make your journeys safer and less stressful. This is a significant step up and a feature that's becoming increasingly important to modern car buyers.
The list of safety equipment doesn't end there. We're looking at 6 airbags being offered as standard across all variants, which is a fantastic move. On top of that, expect a full suite of safety tech including Electronic Stability Control (ESC), an electronic parking brake with auto-hold, Hill Start Assist (HSA), a 360-degree camera, front and rear parking sensors, and all-wheel disc brakes. It's a comprehensive package designed to give you peace of mind.
Pricing, Competition, and Launch Timeline
With all these upgrades, you're probably wondering about the price. The new Seltos is likely to be priced in the range of Rs 11.30 lakh to Rs 20 lakh (ex-showroom). This positions it right in the heart of the fiercely competitive compact SUV segment, where it will lock horns with some heavy hitters. Its primary rival will, of course, be the Hyundai Creta, but it will also go up against the Tata Sierra, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun, and MG Astor.
So, when can we see it in person? The wait is almost over! Kia will be unveiling the new Seltos to the world on December 10, 2025. As for its arrival in Indian showrooms, we can expect the launch to happen in January 2026. Mark your calendars, because this is going to be one of the biggest launches of the year.
Conclusion
The bottom line is this: the next-generation Kia Seltos is not just a mild refresh. It’s a complete and total transformation designed to shake up the compact SUV market all over again. From its bold, revolutionary exterior to the tech-loaded cabin featuring that much-awaited panoramic sunroof, Kia is clearly aiming for the top spot. Add in the possibility of a hybrid powertrain and an upgraded ADAS suite, and you have a seriously compelling package. The full reveal is just around the corner, and it's safe to say the competition should be very, very nervous.
