The newly revealed renderings of Kia’s fully redesigned Seltos captured the automotive industry’s and consumers’ attention.
The redesign includes more than just visual updates. The new model is expected to feature a hybrid system targeting over 20 km/L (47 mpg) fuel efficiency and a possible e-AWD system powered by a rear-mounted electric motor.
Since its 2019 debut, the Seltos has led the domestic compact SUV market and become one of Kia’s core models.
This full redesign marks a key step in strengthening its market position. Major updates are expected in exterior design, powertrain, and production.
Sharper, More Aggressive Exterior with EV-Inspired Elements
The new Seltos renderings show a redesigned front end with sharper, rectangular headlamps and three vertical LED daytime running lights.
The enlarged radiator grille and boxy body resemble the redesigned Telluride, a large SUV for the North American market, suggesting Kia is moving toward a more unified design across its global SUV lineup.
Kia will likely apply this updated front-end style to other SUV models in the future.
Aiming for 47 mpg Fuel Efficiency While Boosting Performance
Another major update in the redesigned Seltos is its hybrid powertrain. Kia plans to introduce a first for the Seltos: an e-AWD system with a rear-mounted electric motor.
This setup is expected to improve fuel efficiency and driving performance compared to current hybrid systems.
The current Hyundai Kona hybrid achieves a maximum combined fuel efficiency of 19.8 km/L (46.6 mpg), and the new Seltos is expected to exceed this.
The Seltos is launching when hybrid demand rises, driven by high gas prices and declining EV incentives.
Production Expansion and Global Market Push
To meet production demands for the Seltos hybrid model, Kia plans to initially manufacture units at Gwangju Plant 1, followed by additional production at Hwaseong Plant 2. This strategy aims to secure sufficient supply for domestic and international markets.
Recent trends show hybrid options accounting for over 70% of sales in new large SUVs like the Carnival and Palisade, indicating potentially high demand for the Seltos hybrid.
Kia plans to launch the new Seltos in the Korean market during the second half of this year, followed by a phased global rollout.
With a spacious interior similar to mid-size SUVs, strong fuel efficiency, and a rear-wheel-drive-based e-AWD system, the Seltos aims to reclaim the top spot in the compact SUV segment.
