2026 Kia Seltos Spied Prototypes Flaunt Two Front Looks

It is no secret that Kia is actively testing the new generation Seltos SUV, which is scheduled to be launched in the country in early 2026. The Korean media report that the 2026 Kia Seltos will go on sale in January next year. A new set of spy images shows two different prototypes of the next Seltos, both carrying unique design elements. 

Few media reports suggest that the 2026 Kia Seltos could follow Hyundai’s strategy of selling Creta and Creta Electric. Similarly, the next Seltos could be offered with both ICE and electric powertrains. We believe that Kia could be testing a more rugged and sportier version of the SUV. The company has already confirmed that the next Seltos will receive a hybrid powertrain with an electric-4WD system for the European markets. The second model could be the hybrid version of the SUV. 

2026 Kia Seltos - What to Expect?

Hyundai is currently selling a sportier version of the Creta, called the Creta N Line, which comes with a significantly different front fascia compared to the regular model. Kia could follow a similar strategy by making significant design changes to the front of the next-gen Seltos X-Line. 

The spy images reveal that the two prototypes have significantly different front fascias and alloy wheel design. On closer look, it is visible that the new Seltos gets a unique lower bumper with differently styled air dams. One model has a more pronounced front bumper with unique styling element, while the second model has a more subtle design for the front bumper. 

Some media reports claim that the spotted model is an electric vehicle with a front charging port hiding behind the thick cloth. However, we believe that the second model with unique design could be the sportier and rugged version of the Seltos. 

New-gen Seltos - Hybrid Engine

The Korean media reports that the next-gen Kia Seltos could get a 141bhp, 1.6-litre hybrid engine that also powers the Kona Hybrid and Niro. Kia is also reportedly developing a dedicated electronic all-time four-wheel (E-AWD) system for the Seltos, which will mainly target the European markets. 

The India-spec next-gen Kia Seltos will also receive a hybrid engine, which could be based on a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder, naturally-aspirated petrol engine. The existing 1.5L NA petrol engine will be paired with a small battery pack and an electric motor. The next-gen Seltos for India will retain the existing engine options including the 1.5L NA petrol, a 1.5L turbo diesel and a 1.5L turbo petrol.

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