The petrol and hybrid SUV will come to Europe and the UK for the first time, with a UK launch planned for the second half of 2026.
The Seltos sits in Kia’s “subcompact SUV” class and measures 4,430mm long with a 2,690mm wheelbase, making it broadly comparable in footprint to the sort of cars many private buyers currently consider as a one-car solution for commuting, family use and weekends away. According to Kia’s figures, the Seltos offers a 536‑litre boot, making it a practical proposition relative to other SUVs in the manufacturer’s range.
Seltos SUV Petrol and hybrid powertrains
Powertrains are the key differentiator versus Kia’s similarly sized electrified models. Kia has confirmed that petrol engines will lead the line-up, with a hybrid version set to follow in 2026.
The petrol line-up includes a 2.0-litre petrol and two versions of a 1.6-litre turbo petrol, with outputs quoted up to 190 bhp depending on specification, with a choice of manual and automatic gearboxes available in global markets. The availability of engines in the UK will be announced closer to the launch, but it’s evident that Kia is crafting the Seltos as an SUV for those who aren’t quite prepared to switch entirely to electric vehicles. However, they are also providing a hybrid option that emphasises efficiency.
Kia is also using the Seltos to emphasise a more “authentic SUV” positioning than some crossovers, with optional all-wheel drive and Terrain Mode settings for Snow, Mud and Sand on AWD versions. For private buyers in rural locations, or those who simply want some extra reassurance in winter conditions, that is a practical point of difference in a class where many rivals are front-wheel drive only.
Inside, Kia is focusing on family-friendly usability and technology. The cabin adopts a panoramic display layout with twin 12.3-inch screens and a dedicated climate panel, plus over-the-air update capability and a smartphone Digital Key. Higher specifications are expected to offer features such as a panoramic sunroof, 64-colour ambient lighting and premium audio options. Kia also highlights second-row seats that recline by up to 24 degrees, designed to improve comfort for passengers on longer journeys.
Safety and driver assistance are also a major part of the package, with Kia listing systems including Highway Driving Assist 2, Lane Following Assist 2, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2, a surround view monitor, plus parking collision-avoidance and parking distance warning features. For many private buyers, these systems are increasingly expected in family SUVs and can be a deciding factor when comparing trims and monthly finance costs.
Kia has not confirmed UK pricing yet, but the Seltos is expected to compete with the Volkswagen T-Roc and Toyota C-HR, suggesting a starting point around the £30,000 mark once UK specifications are announced.
The full range of Kia SUVs
Today, Kia retails its electric SUV line-up of EV3, EV5, EV6 and EV9, alongside the Stonic, XCeed, Niro, Sportage and Sorento. The Seltos rather than replacing an existing nameplate, will effectively add another petrol and hybrid SUV option into the middle of that spread. You can lease the range of Kia SUVs here on the CBVC Leasing website.
