Kia is gearing up for one of its most important launches in India—the second-generation Kia Seltos, arriving in the first half of December 2025. The Seltos has been Kia’s backbone since 2019, helping the brand gain instant trust among Indian SUV buyers. With the new-gen model, Kia aims to raise the bar once again with better comfort, more features, and the same wide engine lineup Indians love.
Table of Contents
Key Highlights (Quick Glance)
Launch: Early December 2025
Segment: Mid-size SUV
Engines Expected: 1.5 NA petrol, 1.5 turbo petrol, 1.5 diesel
Expected Price: ₹11 lakh – ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom)
Rivals: Hyundai Creta, Grand Vitara, Elevate, Taigun, Kushaq, MG Astor, Tata Curvv, upcoming Tata Sierra
Features Expected: Seat memory, improved cushioning, 2nd-row ventilation, more ADAS functions
FY25 Contribution: 72,618 Seltos units sold
A Quick Look Back: How Seltos Changed the Indian SUV Market
When Kia entered India in 2019, many were unsure how a new brand would compete against established giants.
But the Seltos rewrote the rulebook.
- It brought segment-first features when rivals played safe.
- Offered petrol, turbo-petrol, diesel — something still rare today.
- Backed by aggressive pricing and smart packaging.
- Kia rapidly expanded its dealership network, boosting customer confidence.
The result?
Kia became the fastest-growing OEM in India, and the Seltos became a household name, especially among urban and tech-savvy buyers.
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Why the New-Generation Kia Seltos Matters in 2025–26
The mid-size SUV segment has exploded in the last four years. In FY25 alone:
- Total SUV sales: 23,66,274 units
- Mid-size SUV share: 6,09,516 units (25.76%)
- Seltos contribution: 72,618 units
Even in FY26 (April–October), the Seltos has already crossed 41,000+ units, showing its strong brand recall.
With the new Creta arriving in early 2026 and Tata Sierra expected soon, the Seltos needed a major update—and Kia’s timing is perfect.
Design Expectations: Sharper, More Mature, More Premium
Kia is known for giving its SUVs a bold, urban look, and the new Seltos will likely follow a modern evolution rather than a radical redesign.
Expected Exterior Upgrades
- Sharper LED DRLs and a more muscular tiger-nose grille
- Redesigned alloy wheels (possibly 18-inch diamond-cut alloys)
- Wider tail-lamps with connected LED strip
- Improved aerodynamics for better highway stability
Interior Improvements
The outgoing model already feels premium, but the new-gen Seltos will likely improve on comfort and luxury.
Expected additions include:
- Memory function for driver seat
- Ventilated second-row seats
- Thicker cushioning for long-drive comfort
- More soft-touch materials
- Better insulation to reduce road noise
These upgrades reflect the feedback from Indian buyers who want comfort without compromising on tech.
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Tech & Features: Kia Will Push the Segment Again
The current Seltos is already feature-heavy, offering:
- 10.25-inch touchscreen
- 10.25-inch digital cluster
- 360-degree camera + blind-view monitor
- ADAS Level 2 (19 features)
- Panoramic sunroof
- Ventilated seats
- 8-inch HUD
- Dual-zone climate control
What to expect in the new-gen Seltos
Kia generally adds new features with every facelift or update. So the second-gen model may offer:
- Enhanced ADAS suite
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto (full-screen)
- Improved UI across screens
- Better connected-car tech
- Possibly a premium sound system upgrade
Powertrain & Performance: Same Lineup, Same Strength
Kia is expected to continue with its tried-and-tested engine options, which is great news considering their popularity.
Expected Engine Options
| Engine | Power | Torque | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5L Petrol (NA) | 115 PS | 144 Nm | 6MT, IVT |
| 1.5L Turbo Petrol | 160 PS | 253 Nm | 6iMT, 7DCT |
| 1.5L Diesel | 116 PS | 250 Nm | 6MT, 6AT |
Mileage Expectations
Based on outgoing model:
- Petrol NA: 15–17 kmpl
- Turbo Petrol: 12–15 kmpl
- Diesel: 18–21 kmpl
Real-World Driving Insight
The diesel remains the favourite for highway users and long-distance travellers, while the turbo petrol works best for performance-led users who spend more time in the city.
Pricing & Variants: Expected Range
The current Seltos is priced between ₹10.79 lakh – ₹19.80 lakh (ex-showroom).
The new model is expected to start at ₹11 lakh, going up to ₹20 lakh.
Considering the added features, the slight increase is justified and still competitive when compared to:
- Hyundai Creta
- Honda Elevate
- Maruti Grand Vitara
- Toyota Hyryder
- VW Taigun
- Skoda Kushaq
- MG Astor
- Tata Curvv
- Upcoming Tata Sierra
Pros & Cons (Expected)
Pros
- Feature-loaded and tech-forward
- Wide powertrain options
- Strong brand recall and resale value
- Comfortable cabin expected to improve further
- Spacious, family-friendly
- Kia’s excellent after-sales network growth
Cons
- Prices may inch upward
- Turbo petrol mileage may remain average
- ADAS may feel sensitive for some Indian road use
- Diesel availability depends on future emission norms
Who Should Buy the New-Gen Seltos? (Buyer Guide)
- City commuters: NA petrol + IVT
- Highway users: Diesel + 6AT
- Performance lovers: 1.5 turbo petrol + DCT
- Family buyers: Variants with ventilated seats, panoramic sunroof
- Tech lovers: Top-end ADAS trim
The Seltos continues to appeal to young professionals, families upgrading from hatchbacks/sedans, and those who want SUV presence without compromising everyday usability.
Expert Opinion (Author Insights)
Kia understands Indian customer expectations better than most new entrants. The new-generation Seltos will not only refresh its appeal but also give Kia a strong shot at reclaiming the segment leadership after the new Creta launches next year. If Kia nails the ride comfort and seat cushioning—two areas where customers demanded improvements—the Seltos will again set the gold standard for mid-size SUVs.
Conclusion
The new-generation Kia Seltos arrives at the right time, packed with upgrades in comfort, features, and safety. With strong sales numbers already backing its legacy, the new model is expected to take the Seltos story forward and remain a top pick among Indian families and young SUV buyers. If you’re planning to buy a premium mid-size SUV in early 2026, the new Seltos deserves to be on your shortlist.
Frequently Ask Questions
Q1.When will the new-generation Kia Seltos launch in India?
A. Launch is expected in early December 2025.
Q2.Will the new Kia Seltos get new engines?
A. No major changes expected. Kia should continue the 1.5 NA petrol, 1.5 turbo petrol, and 1.5 diesel engines.
Q3.What new features can we expect?
A. Seat memory, better cushioning, second-row ventilation, upgraded ADAS, and improved connected-car tech.
Q4.How much will the new Seltos cost?
A. Expected price range: ₹11 lakh to ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom).
Q5.Is Kia Seltos good for long-distance driving?
A. Yes, especially the diesel automatic, known for strong mileage and highway comfort.
Q6.Who are the rivals of the new Kia Seltos?
A. Hyundai Creta, Honda Elevate, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, VW Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, MG Astor, Tata Curvv, and upcoming Tata Sierra.
