The Seltos Hybrid is not only significant for Kia in Europe, but for Indian buyers too, this powertrain option holds significance since it’s due to arrive in India next year.
Kia has showcased the new-generation Seltos Hybrid at the ongoing 2026 Paris Motor Show, marking its European premiere. The second-generation Kia Seltos made its global debut late last year and is available in a variety of powertrain options, depending on the market. The Seltos Hybrid is not only significant for Kia in Europe, but for Indian buyers too, this powertrain option holds significance since it’s due to arrive in India next year. The second-gen Seltos is presently available in petrol and diesel engine options in the country.
The Kia Seltos Hybrid draws power from a 1.6-litre petrol engine that develops 102 bhp and 141 Nm of peak torque. The engine is paired with an electric motor that produces 129 bhp and 388 Nm, taking the combined power output to 178 bhp. Kia says the petrol-hybrid engine is paired with a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), which sends power to all four wheels via the e-AWD system. The Seltos Hybrid promises a fuel efficiency of 14.71 kmpl (WLTP), and can run on electric propulsion alone. It’s unclear if the e-AWD tech will make it to the Indian market.
Visually, the Kia Seltos Hybrid looks identical to the one sold in India. The automaker has showcased the X-Line variant at the Paris Motor Show, which is the top-of-the-line trim of the model. The SUV comes with all the bells and whistles including ambient lighting, electrically adjustable front seats with ventilation, a head-up display, dual screens, a 360-degree view camera, and a panoramic sunroof.
The Kia Seltos Hybrid will take on the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Victoris, as well as the Toyota UC Hyryder. It will also lock horns against the Renault Duster Hybrid and the MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV in the same space. Moreover, the next-generation Hyundai Creta is also expected to arrive with a strong-hybrid sometime next year.
