Kia Seltos Hybrid—Leading automobile manufacturer Kia has officially introduced a brand new incarnation of its very popular compact SUV Seltos for the global markets. This time the company has launched it with a very advanced hybrid (HEV) engine option. This will be the only engine option available with the new Seltos in European markets such as the United Kingdom (UK). After being introduced in the global market, now the eyes of Indian customers are fixed on its launch timeline. This hybrid SUV is expected to be launched in the Indian automobile market in early 2027.

Kia Seltos Hybrid: Kia introduced new Seltos Hybrid for global markets, know when it will enter the Indian market.

Powerful 1.6 liter GDI hybrid engine and performance

Kia had showcased the new Seltos Hybrid earlier also, but technical details related to this engine were not revealed at that time. This new Seltos Hybrid available in Europe has an advanced 1.6 liter GDI hybrid engine. The company has paired this powertrain with a 6-speed dual clutch automatic transmission (DCT), which provides a smooth and responsive driving experience.

This new SUV will be available in two drive configurations globally. Its first variant is front-wheel drive (2WD), which generates maximum power of 154 PS. At the same time, for those customers who want better performance and stronger grip on bad roads, the company has also introduced an electronic all-wheel drive (e-AWD) variant with a power of 178 PS. This is the first time Kia has included the e-AWD system in the Seltos lineup.

These special features like EV will be available in hybrid model

The new Kia Seltos Hybrid is not only advanced in terms of engine, but it has also added many modern features which are usually seen in fully electric vehicles (EVs). Driving modes like Eco, Normal and Sport have been provided in this car.

• Smart Regenerative Braking 3.0: This system helps to automatically control the vehicle speed while driving and maintain a safe distance from the vehicles ahead. It also charges the battery with the energy generated during braking.
• Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability: This feature allows the car battery to be used like a household socket to power external electronic devices (like laptops, camping lights or small gadgets).
• Premium Cabin and Tech: The interior features dual 12.3-inch widescreens, ChatGPT-based Kia AI assistant and premium sporty seats.

Impact on Indian market and what will be the next step?

Kia Seltos is currently one of the company’s strongest vehicles in the Indian market. The current Indian model offers petrol and diesel engine options. After going on sale in the European and US markets by the end of this year, it is likely to hit Indian roads in early 2027.

Considering the rising fuel prices and huge demand for hybrid cars (like Maruti Grand Vitara and Toyota Hyrider) in the Indian market, the arrival of Seltos Hybrid will create tough competition in the segment. According to experts, keeping in mind the needs and tax slab of the Indian market, Kia can also make minor changes in its engine tuning or size for India, the official announcement of which is expected to be made in the coming months.