The new Kia Seltos has EV vibes, but it’s not actually electric

Kia’s flagship compact SUV is returning with a revamped EV-inspired look and hybrid powertrain, but the new Seltos won’t be fully electric.

Kia rules out a new Seltos EV

It might look like Kia’s latest electric SUVs, like the three-row EV9, but the new Seltos isn’t an EV. Kia unveiled the second-generation Seltos with a new EV-like design and features previously available only on fully electric vehicles, such as Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capabilities.

Although it will be available with a hybrid powertrain for the first time, Kia is ruling out an all-electric version. It will initially launch with a 1.6-liter gas engine, with a hybrid variant joining the lineup in 2026.

Kia said the hybrid powertrain brings “higher efficiency and expanded everyday usability,” but didn’t offer any further details.

Advertisement – scroll for more content

The new Seltos features Kia’s Opposites United Design theme, showcased on its latest EV models, including the EV3, EV5, and EV9.

It shares design elements with Kia’s electric SUVs, including the brand’s signature star map lighting, flush door handles, and a tall, upright stance.

The interior received a complete redesign, with Kia’s new connected car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) at the center. The setup includes dual 12.3″ driver-cluster and infotainment screens in a curved panoramic display, as well as a 5″ climate-control display.

Based on the new K3 platform, which underpins the Hyundai Kona and Kia Niro, the new Seltos is about 2″ longer than the outgoing model.

The added space unlocks “class-leading” luggage capacity of 536 liters. With flexible storage options, including a dual-level cargo board, Kia said the Seltos is ready for daily driving and weekend adventuring.

At 4,430 mm long, 1,830 mm wide, and 1,600 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2,690 mm, the new Seltos is slightly smaller than Kia’s all-electric EV5 SUV.

Kia said the new hybrid Seltos is equipped with Vehicle-to-Load (V2L), a feature previously offered only in electric vehicles.

During the new Seltos global debut event, Kia’s CEO, Ho Sung Song, confirmed (via CarSales AU), “We don’t have any plan for an EV option,” adding that the Seltos will be offered with ICE and hybrid options. Kia already offers several compact electric SUVs, including the EV3 and Niro EV.

We will learn more about the hybrid variant closer to launch. Kia will begin building the new Seltos this month in India, followed by launches in Korea, North America, Europe, and China throughout 2026.

While the new Seltos is not electric, Kia is offering a few discounts on its current EV lineup that might be worth checking out. Kia is currently offering over $10,000 in customer cash discounts on every model. Check out our links below to find deals near you.