Next-gen Kia Seltos unveiled with bigger size, new tech and January 2 price reveal

South Korean automobile manufacturer Kia, on Wednesday, unveiled the 2nd-gen Seltos, introducing a comprehensive update to its midsize SUV. Bookings for the new Seltos open on December 11 with a token amount of ₹25,000.The company has confirmed that prices will be announced on January 2, with deliveries set to begin from mid-January.
According to the company, the new Seltos builds on the model’s existing positioning with updated styling, a redesigned cabin, new technology features and a stronger structure. It continues to be based on Kia’s K3 platform and is offered in Tech Line, GT Line and X-Line trims.
Design and dimensionsThe exterior adopts Kia’s latest design direction seen on newer global models. At the front, the SUV features a wider grille with vertical accents and vertically oriented LED headlamps. Ice Cube LED projection headlamps and Star Map LED daytime running lights are standard, while the rear gets connected LED tail-lamps with an inverted L-shaped signature.

In profile, the Seltos has sharper character lines, thicker cladding around the wheel arches and door sills, and flush-fitting door handles. The rear design is cleaner, with the number plate relocated to the bumper and a roof-mounted spoiler with an integrated LED stop lamp.

Depending on the variant, design elements include satin silver or dark gunmetal skid plates, gloss black exterior detailing, and 18-inch alloy wheels. Higher trims also offer matte exterior colours and a dual-pane panoramic sunroof.

The new Seltos is larger than before. It measures 4,460mm in length, 1,830mm in width and 1,635mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,690mm. Compared to the outgoing model, it is longer, wider and has an 80mm increase in wheelbase, aimed at improving cabin space.
Interior and featuresInside, the cabin has been fully reworked. Kia offers multiple interior colour themes depending on the variant. The dashboard layout is dominated by a panoramic display that combines a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and a separate 5-inch touchscreen for climate controls. Physical buttons and rotary knobs remain for key functions.

Key comfort features include a 10-way powered driver seat with memory and lumbar support, front ventilated seats, a relaxation mode for power seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, wireless charging and 64-colour ambient lighting. Practical additions include rear AC vents, multiple USB ports, a 60:40 split rear seat with armrest on higher trims, and a 447-litre boot.

Kia Connect 2.0 enables connected car features such as remote functions, vehicle diagnostics and over-the-air updates. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are available on select variants. Audio duties are handled by an eight-speaker Bose sound system in higher trims. A 360-degree camera system with blind view monitoring aids parking and manoeuvring.

Powertrains

The second-generation Seltos carries over its engine lineup. The 1.5-litre petrol engine produces 115hp and 144Nm and is offered with a 6-speed manual or CVT. The 1.5-litre turbo-petrol delivers 160hp and 253Nm and is paired with a 6-speed iMT or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic.

The 1.5-litre diesel produces 116hp and 250Nm and is available with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic. All variants are front-wheel drive and come with all-wheel disc brakes.

Safety and market position

Standard safety features include six airbags, ESC, hill-start assist, TPMS, ISOFIX mounts and rear occupant alert. Higher variants add Level 2 ADAS with 21 functions, including collision avoidance, lane assistance, adaptive cruise control and blind spot monitoring.

The new Seltos will go up against the likes of Hyundai Creta, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Skoda Kushaq and Volkswagen Taigun. The first-generation Seltos, launched in India in 2019, achieved over 2 million global sales and played a key role in establishing Kia in the market.