The Kia Seltos, one of India’s most popular midsize SUVs, is gearing up for a major generational update in December 2025. Ahead of the official reveal, a digital rendering of the next-gen Seltos X-Line has surfaced online, giving us an exciting glimpse of the revamped SUV and hinting at Kia’s bold design direction.
Fresh, Aggressive New Look
The rendering showcases a far more muscular and futuristic profile. Key highlights include:
- Completely redesigned grille with vertical chrome slats
- Sharper LED headlamps paired with new fog-lamp housings
- Sculpted bonnet with aggressive character lines
- Wider and bolder front bumper
- Flared wheel arches with chunky cladding
- Flush-type door handles — a first for Seltos
These upgrades signal an elevated premium appeal, especially in the X-Line trim.
Inspired by Kia’s Latest Design Language
Spy shots confirm the new-gen Seltos will adopt Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, featuring:
- Sleek vertical DRLs
- Redesigned fog lamps
- Fresh alloy wheel pattern
- Connected LED tail-lamp setup
Interestingly, the global-spec 2026 Seltos will be around 100mm longer than the current model, making it longer than the Jeep Compass. It remains unclear if the India-spec version will receive the same size boost.
Feature-Packed Premium Cabin
Interior details are still confidential, but industry reports suggest that Kia may offer the Trinity Panoramic Display setup, similar to the new Kia Syros. Expected features include:
- 12.3-inch infotainment screen
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- Dedicated 5-inch touchscreen for climate controls
A refreshed interior layout, enhanced materials, and more technology features are likely, making the new Seltos even more feature-rich than before.
Same Engine Lineup Continues
Engine options will likely remain unchanged:
- 1.5L NA petrol
- 1.5L turbo petrol
- 1.5L diesel
Current manual, iMT, automatic, and DCT transmission options will also be retained, ensuring familiar performance but potentially with improved refinement and efficiency.
Hybrid Seltos Coming in 2027
Kia has confirmed plans to introduce a hybrid version of the Seltos in 2027. Internationally, it is expected to feature the 1.6L petrol-hybrid powertrain seen in the Kia Niro and Hyundai Kona Hybrid, delivering approx. 141hp.
For India, the hybrid may pair a 1.5L petrol engine with an electric motor, expanding Kia’s eco-friendly portfolio in the midsize SUV segment.