The pre-production version of the all-new second-gen Kia Seltos has officially landed in Australia after its global reveal in late 2025. Media and industry insiders now have the first local look at Kia’s next-generation hybrid small SUV ahead of its launch.
It’s expected to arrive in Australia in Q4 2026, and its full specifications, features, and pricing will be announced closer to launch. The upcoming Kia Seltos hybrid will rival the Hyundai Kona Hybrid, Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid, MG ZS Hybrid, and Honda HR-V e:HEV.
Hybrid-only powertrain for Australia
The new second-generation Kia Seltos will be offered exclusively with a hybrid powertrain across all variants in Australia.
Why hybrid only?
- Meets Euro 6d emissions standards
- Future-proofs the model for upcoming regulations
- Targets buyers increasingly considering hybrid vehicles for the first time
According to the Kia Australia CEO, Damien Merideth, the new model is designed to build on the Seltos’ strong reputation, meet evolving customer expectations, and appeal to both private buyers and fleet customers.
Production will come from Kia’s Korean factory, ensuring consistent quality and supply.
Exterior design: Bigger and bolder
The new Kia Seltos adopts Opposites United design language, giving it a more modern and assertive presence. Its key exterior highlights include:
- Wide front grille with star map lighting
- Flush door handles
- Floating roofline
- New rear taillight signature
It’s also larger than before, enhancing both visual presence and interior space.
Interior: More premium and tech-focused
Inside, the Seltos has been completely overhauled to align with Kia’s latest models. Its key interior features include:
- Dual 12.3-inch displays
- Over-the-Air (OTA) software updates
- Column-type Shift-by-Wire (SBW) gear selector
- Second-row seats with 24 degrees of adjustment (12 forward, 12 back)
The cabin uses more premium materials and focuses on a connected, user-friendly experience.
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Performance, platform and safety
All variants will feature Kia’s hybrid system, paired with the Smart Regenerative Braking System 3.0.
Its platform is built on Kia’s latest K3 platform and tuned locally through Kia Australia’s Ride & Handling Program. It is designed to perform well on urban roads and rough country conditions.
The new Kia Seltos will have no Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability in Australian models, and the 2WD variants will include a space-saver spare wheel.
The new Seltos will include a full suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, with a target Dual 4-star/5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Dimensions and practicality
The second-generation Seltos has grown significantly from the previous-generation model, both inside and out.
| Dimensions | 2026 Kia Seltos |
|---|---|
| Length | 4,430mm (+45) |
| Width | 1,830mm (+30) |
| Height | 1,600mm (-30) |
| Wheelbase | 2,690mm (+60) |
| Luggage space VDA | 483L (with Space Saver Spare) (+15) |
The bottom line
The all-new Kia Seltos is shaping up to be a more mature, tech-heavy, and hybrid-focused small SUV. It’s aimed squarely at buyers wanting a future-ready daily driver without stepping into a full EV. It comes with increased size, improved practicality and a clear push toward electrification.
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