After launching theall-new Seltosin India, Kia is rolling out the updated model across various global markets. In the USA, the new Seltos is planned to be launched in June-August 2026. It has also been confirmed that the new Seltos in the USA will be getting a hybrid option in late 2026. Lets check out more details on these developments.

New Seltos hybrid powertrain

For the US market, Kia has unveiled the new-gen Seltos at the ongoing New York Auto Show. Significant update to new Seltos in the US is that it will be getting a hybrid powertrain for the first time. The petrol powered new-gen Seltos will be available at dealerships in the US in June-August 2026. The hybrid option will be introduced later in 2026.

Unlike other Kia cars like theTelluride,Sorento, Sportage, EV6 and EV9, which are manufactured in the USA, the Seltos is manufactured in South Korea and exported there. Same approach is expected for the new-gen Seltos. Kia has stated that the all-new 2027 Seltos hybrid version for the US market will be using a refined turbocharged 1.6-litre hybrid powertrain.

Transmission choices for the Seltos hybrid will include a six-speed dual-clutch unit and an eAWD option. The latter will ensure improved traction and greater confidence when tackling challenging environments. While detailed specifications of the Seltos hybrid have not been revealed, it is possible that the setup could be similar to that of the Kia Niro and Hyundai Kona.

Standard variants are likely to be offered in FWD format, whereas the eAWD version is likely to get a rear-mounted electric motor. In India, the new-gen Seltos hybrid is expected to use the existing 115 hp 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. Kia will be aiming for a high level of localization to ensure that the Seltos hybrid remains competitive against rivals likeMaruti Grand Vitaraand Toyota Hyryder. Seltos hybrid launch in India is expected in 2027.

US-spec MY2027 Seltos Whats new?

Dimensions of the US-spec new Seltos are expected to be largely the same as compared to the global-spec model. In comparison to the outgoing model, the all-new 2027 Seltos is 40 mm wider. The wheelbase has gained 60 mm as well and now stands at 2,690 mm. Top trims will have a higher ground clearance of 206 mm.

Exterior updates, including the lighting elements and the striking new grille, are largely the same as the India-spec version. Inside, key features include close to 30-inches of combined digital displays. It includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. New Seltos has class-leading 2nd-row legroom, 360 surround view monitor and blind spot view monitor.

Other highlights include a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, and memory feature with the drivers seat. New Seltos has 13 standard and up to 24 collision avoidance & driver assistance features. More details about the new-gen Seltos for the US market will be revealed closer to launch.