Prime Highlights
• 2026 Kia Seltos caught on test with two unique front-end designs, possibly indicating the existence of distinct ICE and EV models.
• The EV model boasts a more streamlined design and charging point, indicative of Kia’s expanding electrification agenda.
Key Facts
• Two test mules demonstrate disparate bumpers, alloy wheels, and lights.
• One of them incorporates a front charging point, indicating a standalone electric variant.
• Inners are expected to have a new triple-screen configuration and Level 2 ADAS.
Key Background
Kia is setting its sights on a bold step in the compact SUV space with the next-gen 2026 Seltos. Recent spy photos show two test cars with distinctly different front-end looks. One test mule sports a conventional ICE-focused look with a more menacing front grille and bumper. The second test car, however, boasts a more minimalist, sleek-looking front design and special aero-style alloy wheels, which indicate that it might be a fully electric variant.
What makes the electric possibility more likely is the presence of a visible front charging port on the sleeker test mule. This aligns with Kia’s global shift toward electrification and mirrors Hyundai’s dual-strategy approach with the Creta, offering both ICE and EV variants on the same platform. The Seltos EV could potentially borrow components from Hyundai’s electric SUV lineup, such as a battery ranging from 42 kWh to 51.4 kWh and a motor producing around 169 bhp. This would allow the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in under 8 seconds and offer a driving range of approximately 470 kilometers on a full charge.
Other than the powertrain variations, there are also stylistic upgrades indicated through the language of design. The new Seltos is to have a flatter bonnet, more rectangular body lines, a vertical front grille, and newly styled LED projector headlamps. The vertically stacked DRLs and new bumper design indicate a more contemporary and rugged look.
Inside, the cabin will undergo a drastic transformation with a fresh triple-screen design consisting of a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, and a 5-inch climate control screen. Some other high-end features could be ventilated front and rear seats, panoramic sunroof, head-up display (HUD), wireless charging, connected car tech, and six-airbag system. Level 2 ADAS is also going to be added for improved driver assistance.
The worldwide launch is expected in early 2026, with the Indian launch by mid-2026. The pricing is expected to go up by a minor margin to incorporate the advanced tech and prospective EV variant, making the Seltos a multi-purpose player in the compact SUV space.
