Kia has unveiled the second-generation Seltos, bringing a fresh look, new technology and for the first time, a hybrid variant as it targets 430,000 global sales per year. The new model will reach Australian showrooms in the fourth quarter of 2026, following a full hybrid powertrain reveal in 2026.
Drawing inspiration from the larger EV5 and EV9 electric SUVs, the 2026 Seltos features a boxier, more squared-off exterior with flush-fitting door handles, contrasting underbody accents and chunky black wheelarch cladding for a tougher visual stance.
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The new model grows in size to 4430mm long, 1830mm wide, 1600mm tall, and rides on a 2690mm wheelbase, making it larger in every dimension except height. Kia says this increase translates to noticeably more cabin space, while boot capacity expands from 477L to 536L.
Modern interior with built-in AI
Inside, the Seltos receives a comprehensive redesign centred around Kia’s latest technology suite. A panoramic dual-screen layout houses two 12.3-inch displays for the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system.
New features include:
- An integrated AI voice assistant
- Always-connected over-the-air (OTA) software updates
- Digital Key capability
- Redesigned cabin materials and switchgear
- Optional panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, and premium audio
Depending on grade, the 2026 Seltos will also offer 16 to 19-inch alloy wheels, two-tone exterior paint, and a 12-inch head-up display.
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Hybrid power incoming, but details still under wraps
Kia confirms the new Seltos will be offered with a hybrid system for the first time, including vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality and its latest regenerative braking tech. But full technical specifications remain under wraps.
The hybrid is widely expected to share hardware with the Hyundai Kona Hybrid, which pairs a 1.6L petrol engine and electric motor for 104kW/265Nm, though Kia has not confirmed outputs for the Seltos.
For now, three petrol engines will be available globally:
- 2.0L NA petrol: 110kW/179Nm (transmission TBC; previously paired with a CVT)
- 1.6L turbo petrol (low-tune): 132kW/265Nm, with 6-speed manual or 7-speed DCT
- 1.6L turbo petrol (high-tune): 142kW/265Nm, paired with an 8-speed automatic
In the outgoing Australian model, the mid-spec engine was not offered, so it remains to be seen whether this changes for the 2026 lineup. Kia is expected to maintain a familiar variant structure, now topped by both GT-Line and adventure-styled X-Line grades in overseas markets.
Safety upgrades across the range
Kia has bolstered the Seltos’ safety equipment, with available features including:
- Forward collision warning and avoidance assist
- Adaptive cruise control with lane centring
- Surround-view monitor
- Safe exit warning
- 360-degree parking sensors
Active driver-assist technologies are expected to be available across more grades than before.
Australian arrival locked in for late 2026
The second-generation Seltos will launch first in India before rolling out globally. Full hybrid details are expected next year, with the Australian-spec range to be confirmed closer to the model’s local introduction between October and December 2026.
Bigger, smarter and styled like a mini-EV9, the 2026 Kia Seltos is positioned to take on popular rivals in the small SUV category, now with the added appeal of a long-awaited hybrid option.
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