The Second Generation Kia Seltos Spied: Bold Redesign, Hybrid Tech, and More

The iconic is about to get a major upgrade. Recently spotted on the roads of South Korea under heavy camouflage, the second-generation Seltos has left car enthusiasts buzzing with anticipation. Known for its aggressive stance, premium interiors, and versatile powertrain lineup, the Seltos has been a solid contender in the compact SUV segment. Now, with a new generation on the horizon, Kia seems ready to set new benchmarks in design, features, and efficiency.

Design Overhaul: Sleeker, Bigger, and More Aggressive

The camouflaged prototype suggests that Kia is going all-in with the next-gen Seltos’ styling. At first glance, the overall shape and silhouette appear similar to the current model, but the SUV seems a tad longer—a change that could translate to more cabin and cargo space, making the new Seltos even more practical for families and long road trips.

Upfront, the Seltos is expected to sport a bold new look, with squared-off LED headlights and distinct DRLs. The grille, shrouded in mystery, hints at a potential overhaul with standing slats for a more upscale feel. The back, however, is where the design really takes a dramatic turn. Taking cues from Kia’s flagship EV9, the second-gen Seltos flaunts futuristic L-shaped LED taillamps that give it a muscular yet refined presence.

Powertrain Revolution: Hybrid Tech and More Muscle Under the Hood

The second-gen Seltos isn’t just about good looks; it’s set to pack a punch under the hood too. Kia is expected to introduce a 1.6-liter hybrid petrol engine, a setup reportedly borrowed from the Hyundai Kona Hybrid. This powertrain is expected to deliver around 141 bhp, bringing impressive fuel efficiency and eco-conscious performance into the mix.

For those who love the current power options, there’s good news: the powerful 158 bhp turbo petrol engine and 114 bhp diesel engine are likely to carry over, giving drivers the choice between performance and economy. Transmission options are expected to be extensive, with choices that range from a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed clutchless manual, a 6-speed torque converter, CVT, to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic. This variety ensures that Kia will have something to offer for everyone, from the purist manual driver to those looking for a smooth and effortless commute.

Interior Upgrades: Raising the Bar for Compact SUVs

Although the interiors remain unspied, insiders suggest that the cabin of the next-gen Seltos will see a significant upgrade in premium feel and tech integration. The current Seltos already boasts an impressive layout and quality, so the bar is set high. Expectations are that Kia will equip this new version with luxurious materials, advanced tech, and perhaps even more spacious seating to make every journey comfortable and enjoyable.

Global Debut and India Launch

While still in the testing phase, industry speculations hint at a global debut in 2025. Given Kia’s significant following in India, we can expect the launch to follow in 2026. This timeline suggests that Kia wants to perfect this new generation and ensure it meets the expectations of loyal fans and new buyers alike.

What’s in Store?

The second-generation Kia Seltos promises to bring a thrilling blend of cutting-edge technology, eco-friendly performance, and eye-catching design. If the spy shots and hints are anything to go by, Kia’s Seltos is gearing up to set the compact SUV segment ablaze once more. Keep an eye on this one—2025 can’t come soon enough for what could be the most exciting SUV in its class.