All-new 2026 Kia Seltos teased

Kia has released the first official teaser of its new-generation Seltos compact SUV ahead of its global debut on December 10, previewing an EV-inspired design and hinting at the hybrid powertrain expected to feature.

The second-generation Seltos will don what Kia calls ‘Star Map daytime running lights’ and walk a mid-ground between internal combustion and battery-electric SUV in terms of exterior design – a well-defined and functional grille and flush door handles.

Under the skin, the Seltos will move from the Hyundai Group’s K2 platform the newer K3 architecture as per the Hyundai Kona, a move that will allow the fitment of a 1.6-litre hybrid powertrain.

Odds are it will be exactly the same system as used in the Kona (104kW/265Nm) but with the added option of an all-new e-AWD system provided by the fitment of a second electric motor to the rear axle – like a Toyota RAV4 and Corolla Cross which don’t have a rear driveshaft.

It would be reasonable to expect the core powertrains to be the familiar range of a 2.0-litre petrol and a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol as per the current model, albeit the latest versions as seen in the K4 small car.

The new Kia Seltos will make its global debut on December 10 ahead of its local introduction sometime in 2026 – most likely towards the middle of the year.

The current model has been a pillar of success for Kia Australia as one of its most popular models.

However, the new generation is likely to push out one of Kia’s modest sellers locally – the similarly sized, electrified Kia Niro.

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