Kia is working on something big! The next-generation Kia Seltos has been accidentally revealed in the company’s official documentary film titled “The Great Heritage: Car”. What caught everyone’s attention is a new SUV, possibly the new-gen Kia Seltos hybrid, shown at the end of the film.
For Indian car buyers, this is exciting news — especially with the expected hybrid petrol engine, modern design updates, and improved fuel efficiency. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the upcoming 2025 Kia Seltos hybrid SUV, its features, launch expectations, and why it might be the next big thing in the compact SUV segment.
👉 Official Website for Reference: https://www.kia.com/in
What Was Spotted in the Kia Documentary?
In the behind-the-scenes video released by Kia Motors South Korea, one SUV stood out at the end. Though not directly named, its silhouette, shape, and design details strongly resemble the Seltos — but with many noticeable changes. Multiple media outlets and automotive experts believe this is the next-gen Kia Seltos (internally codenamed SP3).
Key Exterior Changes in the New Kia Seltos Hybrid
Based on what was visible and leaked, here are the expected exterior updates in the 2025 Seltos hybrid:
- Upright front fascia for a bolder SUV stance
- Redesigned ORVMs (side mirrors)
- Squarish wheel arches for a muscular profile
- New triangular rear quarter glass for better styling
- Curved rear windshield, possibly improving aerodynamics
These changes suggest that the new Kia Seltos will have a more premium and rugged SUV look, similar to bigger SUVs like the Hyundai Tucson.
Kia Seltos 2025 Hybrid Powertrain – Fuel Efficient & Future-Ready
The biggest upgrade in the next-gen Kia Seltos is expected to be the introduction of a petrol-hybrid engine. This will make the Seltos Kia’s first hybrid SUV in India.
Here’s what we know so far:
- Inspired by Hyundai Kona Hybrid’s 1.6-litre setup
- Kia Seltos hybrid may use a 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with an electric motor
- Combined power output could be around 140–145 HP
- Expected mileage: 20–25 km/l, depending on tuning
This setup will offer a fuel-efficient alternative to diesel engines, especially as many cities in India plan stricter emissions rules. It’s perfect for urban buyers who want SUV comfort with low running costs.
Other Engine Options to Continue
While the hybrid version will be the headline change, Kia is likely to continue offering its current petrol and diesel engines, especially for the Indian market:
- 1.5L Naturally Aspirated Petrol (115 HP)
- 1.5L Turbo Petrol (160 HP)
- 1.5L Diesel (116 HP)
These engines will offer a wide range of options for different types of buyers — from daily city commuters to highway lovers and performance enthusiasts.
Why Is Kia Introducing a Hybrid Seltos Now?
Hybrid cars are gaining popularity in India due to their higher mileage, lower pollution, and longer driving range compared to full-electric vehicles. Some key reasons why Kia is going hybrid with Seltos:
- Strict BS6 Phase 2 Norms: Diesel options are slowly declining in the market due to tightening emission rules.
- Rising Petrol & Diesel Prices: Hybrid models reduce fuel bills without the charging worries of EVs.
- Growing Demand for Green Mobility: Customers are shifting towards more eco-friendly options without compromising on power.
- Competition from Toyota and Maruti: Brands like Toyota (with Urban Cruiser Hyryder) and Maruti (with Grand Vitara hybrid) are already in the hybrid game.
Kia Seltos Hybrid India Launch Timeline
The next-generation Seltos is expected to make its global debut by end of 2025. The Indian launch should follow in early to mid-2026. Before that, we may see more teasers, test mules, and official announcements from Kia.
Things to Know Before Buying the Next-Gen Seltos
If you are considering buying an SUV in 2025 or early 2026, keep these buyer tips in mind regarding the new Seltos:
- Wait for better mileage: If fuel efficiency is your priority, wait for the hybrid version.
- Better features incoming: Expect improved ADAS, infotainment, and connected car tech.
- Premium pricing possible: Hybrid models usually cost ₹1–2 lakh more than petrol/diesel variants.
- Improved resale value: Hybrids may have better resale due to rising fuel costs.
- Future-ready tech: Hybrid is a middle step between ICE and EV — ideal for buyers who want modern tech without range anxiety.
How Will the Next-Gen Seltos Impact the Market?
The current Kia Seltos is already a top-selling SUV in India, thanks to its stylish looks and value-for-money variants. With the next generation, Kia is expected to:
- Enter the hybrid SUV segment
- Offer upmarket design and features
- Compete directly with Maruti Grand Vitara Hybrid and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder
- Possibly attract buyers from Hyundai Creta, MG Astor, and Honda Elevate
Final Thoughts: Should You Wait for the Next-Gen Kia Seltos?
If you’re looking to buy a premium compact SUV in the next 12–18 months, waiting for the hybrid Seltos might be a smart move. It offers:
- Lower running costs
- Modern design
- Future-proof technology
- Trusted Kia reliability
That said, if you need a car immediately, the current Seltos is still a great option, especially with BS6 Phase 2-compliant engines and many variants under ₹20 lakh.
👉 For more updates, visit the official Kia India site: https://www.kia.com/in
