Kia Unveils All-New Seltos in Global Online Premiere: A Bold Evolution in Subcompact SUVs

December 10, 2025 – Kia Corporation today marked an exciting milestone with the global online premiere of the all-new, second-generation Seltos. Themed ‘The Protagonist,’ the virtual event highlighted the vehicle’s bold design, innovation, and versatility, positioning it as the perfect companion for modern adventurers. 

Streamed worldwide via Kia’s digital platforms, the launch reaffirms the brand’s commitment to tech-forward, accessible mobility. This follows the earlier anticipation we shared with readers on PakWheels, where we first announced the debut of the 2nd-gen Seltos. 

Bold Design and Enhanced Practicality

The all-new Seltos blends Kia’s signature “Opposites United” design philosophy with enhanced functionality, giving it a commanding road presence. The Seltos boasts a wider stance and refined surfacing, creating a commanding presence on the road. The key exterior features include:

• Bold Front Grille

The Seltos boasts a bold front grille illuminated by Kia’s signature Star Map lighting, creating a striking first impression.

• Dynamic Welcome Lights

The dynamic welcome lights greet the driver, enhancing the vehicle’s modern and sophisticated appeal.

• Flush Door Handles

The sleek flush door handles seamlessly integrate into the vehicle’s design, contributing to its smooth, streamlined profile.

• Floating Roofline

Accentuated by diagonal character lines, the floating roofline gives the Seltos a dynamic, aerodynamic look.

• Vertical Tail Lamps

The modern, vertical tail lamps add a distinctive touch to the Seltos, enhancing its bold and contemporary design.

Trim-specific designs include the rugged X-Line, featuring dark gunmetal accents, and the sporty GT-Line, offering dynamic appeal. ‘

New color options such as Iceberg Green, Gravity Gray, and matte Magma Red amplify the Seltos’ bold persona.

Interior Comfort, Connectivity, and Versatility

Inside, the Seltos maximizes comfort and connectivity with the new K3 platform, providing improved rigidity and superior noise insulation. Highlights include:

• Low, Horizontal Dashboard

The low, horizontal dashboard design creates an open, airy feel, enhancing the cabin’s spaciousness.

• Column-Type Shift-by-Wire System

The column-type Shift-by-Wire system offers sleek, modern functionality for a more intuitive driving experience.

• Panoramic Sunroof and 64-Color Mood Lighting

The panoramic sunroof, paired with customizable 64-color mood lighting, delivers a premium and personalized in-car experience.

Rear passengers enjoy reclining seats adjustable up to 24 degrees, while premium audio systems from Harman Kardon or Bose elevate the experience. With 536 liters of luggage space and flexible storage options, the Seltos balances comfort and practicality.

Versatile Powertrains and Advanced Capabilities

The Seltos offers impressive performance and efficiency across a range of powertrains:

• 1.6-liter Turbocharged GDI Engine

Available in standard (180 PS/265 Nm) or high-output (193 PS/265 Nm) variants, offering excellent performance and efficiency.

• 2.0-liter Naturally Aspirated Petrol Engine

Delivering 149 PS and 179 Nm, this engine provides a reliable and efficient driving experience.

• All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

The AWD system, combined with Terrain Mode, enhances performance in Snow, Mud, or Sand conditions, ensuring versatility in any environment.

• Drive Mode Select

Offering Eco, Normal, and Sport settings, the Drive Mode Select system allows drivers to tailor their driving experience to their preferences.

A hybrid variant, debuting in 2026, promises improved fuel economy, Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, and the advanced Smart Regenerative Braking System 3.0.

Advanced Technology and Safety Features

The Seltos introduces cutting-edge technology, including:

• Panoramic Curved Display

The Seltos features dual 12.3-inch screens for navigation and infotainment, providing a seamless and high-tech user interface.

• AI Assistant

The AI Assistant offers intuitive voice commands, supported by over-the-air (OTA) updates, enhancing ease of use and connectivity.

• Digital Key 2

Digital Key 2 allows for seamless vehicle access, offering a more convenient and secure entry experience.

Safety is a top priority, with ADAS features like:

• Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA 2) 
• Lane Following Assist 2 (LFA 2)
• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2 (FCA 2)
• Safe Exit Warning
• Suite of parking aids, including the 
  • Surround View Monitor
  • Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist-Reverse
    
• Head-Up Display to keep the driver focused on the road
  

Global Launch and Production Plans

Production of the all-new Seltos begins this month at Kia’s facility in India. Market launches are set to roll out across Korea, North America, Europe, and China throughout 2026.

Ho Sung Song, President and CEO of Kia Corporation, said, “The next-generation Seltos builds on its legacy with a refined offering that resonates with diverse customer needs worldwide. It enhances Kia’s SUV portfolio and underscores our commitment to innovation, style, and practicality.”

Setting a New Benchmark for Subcompact SUVs

The all-new Seltos strengthens Kia’s SUV portfolio and sets a new benchmark in the subcompact SUV category. Combining cutting-edge technology, bold style, and exceptional performance, it’s a vehicle designed for those seeking both adventure and everyday reliability.

Stay updated with the latest in automotive innovation. Read more about the all-new Kia Seltos on PakWheels!