Kia has pulled the covers off the all-new Seltos, introducing the second generation of its compact SUV during an online world premiere held on 25 December 2025.

The launch was framed around a short film titled “The Protagonist,” which set the tone for how Kia sees the Seltos fitting into everyday life. 

This is a vehicle meant to keep pace with daily routines while still being ready for the occasional escape. 

Kia said the Seltos has earned a solid following over the years, and the new model builds on that reputation with broader appeal and more features aimed at global markets.

Design changes give the new Seltos a more confident SUV stance. Kia leaned into its “Opposites United” design direction, with a wider grille and the brand’s star map lighting signature. 

A welcome light sequence greets drivers up front, while flush door handles add to the cleaner look and help with airflow.

The new Seltos also grows in size. It measures 4,430 mm long, 1,830 mm wide, and 1,600 mm tall, riding on a 2,690 mm wheelbase. Kia said the added length and width translate to a roomier cabin. 

Buyers will see X-Line and GT-Line variants in the lineup, with X-Line leaning toward a tougher look and GT-Line positioned as the sportier option. 

Colors shown during the reveal included Iceberg Green, Gravity Gray, and a matte Magma Red.

The dashboard sits lower and stretches horizontally, opening up the view ahead. A column-type shift-by-wire system clears space around the center console. 

Features highlighted during the reveal include a panoramic sunroof, 64-color mood lighting, and second-row seats that recline up to 24 degrees. 

Depending on the market, audio options range from Harman Kardon to Bose systems.

Underneath, the all-new Seltos is built on Kia’s latest K3 platform. Powertrain choices vary by region. A 1.6-liter turbocharged engine is offered in two versions, producing either 180 PS or up to 193 PS, both with 265 Nm of torque. A 2.0-liter petrol engine is also available, rated at 149 PS and 179 Nm. 

All-wheel drive is optional, along with a terrain mode system for snow, mud, and sand, plus selectable drive modes such as Eco, Normal and Sport.

Kia also confirmed that a hybrid version is in the pipeline for 2026. The company said it will focus on improved efficiency and include features such as Vehicle-to-Load capability and a smart regenerative braking system that adjusts energy recovery based on traffic and navigation data.

Technology and safety take a bigger role in this generation. The Seltos comes with a wide digital panel combining two 12.3-inch screens, a head-up display, and a suite of driver-assistance features. 

Kia also introduced an AI assistant, over-the-air software updates, and smartphone-based access through Digital Key 2.

Cargo space stands at 536 liters, with flexible storage options like a foldable dual-level cargo board. Kia also highlighted an accessory system called AddGear, designed to help owners organize everyday items.

Production begins in December 2025 in India, with rollouts planned across Korea, North America, Europe and China through 2026.