The Kia Seltos, one of the most successful compact SUVs in India and many global markets, is preparing for a major update. The new-generation Kia Seltos has been spied once again during road testing, fueling excitement among auto enthusiasts and potential buyers.
While the 2023 facelift brought a host of modern updates, the next-gen Seltos — expected to launch globally in 2025 — is likely to be a completely overhauled model, not just a cosmetic refresh. It promises new styling, enhanced safety, improved technology, and possibly hybrid powertrains.
Let’s dive into what the spy shots reveal and what we can expect from the next-gen Seltos.
🔍 Spy Shots Reveal Camouflaged Prototype Testing
The most recent spy images of the new-generation Kia Seltos show a heavily camouflaged test mule, spotted on international roads. Despite the camouflage, several new design cues and body proportions are visible.
Observations from Spy Shots:
- A longer and wider stance than the current model
- Redesigned LED DRLs, possibly extending into the grille
- A flatter, more upright bonnet
- New alloy wheel design (likely 17 or 18-inch)
- Revised tailgate design with connected LED tail lamps
- Lower roofline taper hinting at a sportier silhouette
While not much is confirmed yet, the Seltos seems to be evolving from a rugged SUV into a more urban, sophisticated, and aerodynamic crossover.
🧑🎨 Expected Exterior Design Changes
Based on the current design language of newer Kia models like the Kia EV9 and Kia K4, the upcoming Seltos is expected to adopt a bolder, cleaner look.
Likely Exterior Highlights:
- Tiger Nose grille redesign with a wider mesh
- Sleeker, split LED headlamp setup
- Dynamic bumper profiles with air inlets
- Flush-type door handles in higher trims
- Connected rear LED tail light bar
- New color options including dual-tone schemes
Kia is known for giving its SUVs a premium look, and the Seltos is likely to follow the same approach with sharper body lines, tech-driven lighting elements, and a stronger road presence.
🛋️ Interior Overhaul: Bigger, Smarter, More Luxurious
Inside the cabin, the new-gen Kia Seltos is expected to receive a complete makeover. The layout is likely to resemble the newer Kia Sportage or EV6, with an emphasis on minimalism and technology.
Expected Interior Features:
- Dual-screen curved dashboard (12.3-inch instrument + infotainment display)
- New-gen Kia Connect OS with advanced voice commands
- Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) features
- Premium upholstery with ambient lighting
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Panoramic sunroof
- Larger rear seat space due to longer wheelbase
- Electrically adjustable ventilated seats
Kia may also improve NVH levels (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness), soft-touch surfaces, and rear AC vents with climate controls.
⚙️ Engine and Powertrain Options: A Hybrid on the Cards?
While the exact engine lineup for the new-gen Seltos hasn’t been revealed yet, Kia is expected to retain popular options while also introducing electrified powertrains for better fuel efficiency and lower emissions.
Likely Engine Options (India & Global):
| Engine Type | Displacement | Transmission | Fuel Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5L NA Petrol | 115 PS | 6MT / IVT | Petrol |
| 1.5L Turbo Petrol | 160 PS | 6iMT / 7DCT | Petrol |
| 1.5L CRDi Diesel | 116 PS | 6MT / 6AT | Diesel |
| 1.6L Hybrid (expected) | 140+ PS | e-CVT (Automatic) | Petrol-Hybrid |
With Bharat Stage 6 Phase 2 norms in place, a hybrid powertrain seems likely for both India and international markets. This could significantly boost fuel economy and reduce the carbon footprint of the Seltos lineup.
🔐 Safety Enhancements: Stronger, Smarter, Safer
Safety is becoming a key priority for Indian car buyers. The new-gen Kia Seltos is expected to be safer than ever before, thanks to both passive and active safety tech.
Anticipated Safety Features:
- 6 to 8 airbags (standard in top variants)
- ABS with EBD
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Level 2 ADAS (adaptive cruise control, auto emergency braking, lane assist)
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- 360-degree camera with blind-view monitoring
- Improved body structure for crash protection
Kia might aim for a 5-star Global NCAP safety rating, as more consumers are now demanding structural safety in compact SUVs.
🇮🇳 India Launch Timeline & Expected Price
Launch Timeline:
- India launch expected in late 2025 or early 2026
- May debut globally by mid-2025
- Will be produced locally in Kia’s Anantapur plant in Andhra Pradesh
Expected Pricing in India:
| Variant | Estimated Price (Ex-showroom) |
|---|---|
| Base Petrol MT | ₹11.50 lakh |
| Turbo Petrol DCT | ₹15.00 lakh |
| Diesel AT | ₹15.50 lakh |
| Hybrid Top Variant | ₹17.00–₹18.00 lakh |
The new-gen Seltos will continue to compete with:
- Hyundai Creta (new-gen)
- Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
- Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder
- MG Astor
- Honda Elevate
- Skoda Kushaq
- VW Taigun
🌟 Why This Update is Important for Kia
The Seltos was Kia’s first and most successful model in India, helping the brand make a strong mark in the compact SUV segment. The next-gen update is crucial to:
- Retain its market leadership
- Meet rising expectations in tech and safety
- Compete against newer rivals with hybrid tech
- Stay relevant in India’s fast-changing SUV market
With increasing competition, a bold, all-new design and feature-rich package will help Kia continue its strong run in India.
🏁 Final Thoughts: A More Premium, Safer, Future-Ready Seltos
The 2025 Kia Seltos new-gen model promises to be more than just a facelift. From what spy shots reveal and industry insights suggest, it is shaping up to be a smarter, stronger, and more premium SUV that can cater to the evolving needs of Indian and global buyers.
Whether it’s hybrid powertrains, ADAS features, or futuristic interiors, Kia seems ready to future-proof the Seltos. And with its aggressive pricing strategy and brand trust, the Seltos is likely to remain a top choice in the midsize SUV market.
Hello, my name is Muskan Kumari and I am an experienced Digital Marketer. I have been blogging for the last 3 years and I have special interest in SEO. Here I give you easy bikes and writes easy-to-understand reviews and news about the latest bikes, helping readers choose the best options.. My aim is to always provide you with accurate, new and useful information.
