New-Gen Kia Seltos Caught Testing Again in India – Detailed Preview

The next-generation Kia Seltos has once again been spotted undergoing road testing in India, signalling that the South Korean automaker is progressing full speed ahead with its launch plans for early 2026. For buyers watching the compact SUV segment, the new Seltos promises a major leap in design, technology, and powertrain — and potentially a significant reshuffle in segment dynamics.times.motormitra.in

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Why this matters

The Seltos has been a volume pillar for Kia India since its debut. According to reports, it contributed nearly 47 % of Kia India’s volumes since 2019. With the compact/mid-size SUV segment increasingly competitive, the incoming generation must do more than just look fresh — it must also deliver on technology, efficiency, and value. motor mitra ..

What’s new in the spy shots

Recent spy test mules in India have revealed several key updates in design and under-the-skin architecture:

• The front fascia of the new Seltos uses Kia’s latest “Opposites United” design language: vertically oriented LED DRLs next to main headlamps, a concave grille flanked by bold styling elements.
• At the rear, a connected LED light-bar running between the tail-lamps is visible in earlier spy footage. motor mitra ..
• Exterior proportions appear to grow: one source reports the new Seltos could stretch to about 4,465 mm in length — nearly 100 mm more than the current model.
• On the underpinnings front, one of the most interesting changes is the spy-shot evidence of a multi-link rear independent suspension and possibly an AWD (all-wheel drive) variant.times.motormitra.in

What this means for India spec

While global variants may carry advanced powertrains and AWD options, the Indian version will likely be tailored to local needs, manufacturing capacities, and cost sensitivities.

Powertrain outlook

The current Seltos engine lineup includes 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol, 1.5-litre turbo-petrol, and 1.5-litre diesel units. For the new generation, Kia is understood to be working on hybrid and possibly plug-in or electric variants in global markets — though India’s take-up may lag. motor mitra .. For example:

• Localised version may carry a 1.5-litre hybrid (or mild-hybrid) variant tailored for the Indian tax/efficiency regime.
• Diesel may stick around, though increasing regulatory pressure on diesel may affect this.
• Transmission and drivetrain: the arrival of independent suspension and AWD suggests potential for more premium variants — but it is unclear how many of these will reach India or be cost-viable for the mass market.times.motormitra.in

Dimensions & interior

With greater length, the next-gen Seltos is expected to provide improved rear-seat legroom, more boot space, and a more premium cabin feel. The dashboard and infotainment system are also likely to be upgraded significantly, borrowing cues from Kia’s global models like the Syros and EV5.

Expected features & tech upgrades

Kia appears to be gearing up to make the new Seltos genuinely tech-rich:

• A large touchscreen with connected car features, possibly an overlay of Kia Connect and voice assistant integration. motor mitra ..
• More advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane-centering, and blind-spot monitoring — essential now for competition in the segment.
• Premium materials, digital instrument cluster, mood lighting, bigger wheels, and more premium finishes to match the up-scaled size and younger buyer expectations.
• Given the independent rear suspension seen, the ride comfort and handling would receive a boost compared to the current model’s torsion beam rear setup.times.motormitra.in

Competitive positioning & launch timing

The new-gen Seltos will square off against very capable rivals such as the Hyundai Creta, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Volkswagen Taigun, and Skoda Kushaq. The segment is crowded, refined, and rich in features. Kia will need to justify any price premium with strong advances in the value proposition. motor mitra ..

As per sources, the India launch is likely in early 2026, possibly February–March. Given that we are already seeing testing in full swing locally, this timeline appears credible.

What to watch out for

For prospective buyers, several points will matter:

• Pricing: With bigger size and richer features, expect a price increase over the current model’s range (₹11–20 lakh ex-showroom as of mid-2025).
• Variants: Whether Kia retains multiple engine choices (NA petrol, turbo petrol, diesel, hybrid) and how many trims come with premium features. motor mitra ..
• Waiting period: Launch timing, demand-supply balance, and waiting lists could affect buyers.
• Residual value & after-sales: With the new architecture, Kia will need to maintain confidence via a strong dealer network and service support.
• Export vs Domestic spec: Some spy images and tech (AWD, independent suspension) may be targeted for global markets; Indian versions may be simpler — buyers should check local spec carefully.times.motormitra.in

Final thoughts

The next-generation Kia Seltos appears poised to be a substantial step up from the current model — not just in design, but in packaging, features, and driving dynamics. For India, this is a critical launch for Kia: a chance to sustain its strong position in a competitive segment and to upgrade its value proposition for the next decade.times.motormitra.in

If you’re in the market for a compact SUV and can wait 6–12 months, the new Seltos is certainly worth considering. It promises better space, more tech, possibly more efficient powertrains — and if the price and local spec align well, it could become a benchmark in the segment yet again.

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