Kia Seltos Hybrid Confirmed; It Is Targeting 25% Of Its Sales In India

Kia announced a new hybrid drivetrain for the Seltos midsize SUV at its most recent 2025 Investor Day. The next Seltos, which is scheduled for release in the second half of this year, is anticipated to make its debut with this innovative hybrid drivetrain. Kia has been considering hybrid vehicles for India, as we have previously reported, and the next Seltos (codenamed SP3i) will in fact offer the option of a hybrid drivetrain in India.

Although Kia has acknowledged that the Seltos would use a hybrid drivetrain, it has not yet disclosed any precise technical specifications. The current 1.5-liter, 4-cylinder, normally aspirated gasoline engine, however, is expected to be replaced by an electric one in the next Seltos, according to sources. The future 3-row SUV that Kia is preparing for India will also be powered by the same drivetrain.

Kia is searching for large quantities of hybrid cars since it wants hybrids to account for 25% of its sales in India by 2030; the goal percentage for EVs is 18%. A entirely new design language influenced by the brand’s new-generation EVs is anticipated for the next-generation Kia Seltos, which has been spotted testing in India on a few times. Additionally, the inside will be entirely redesigned with an increased emphasis on technological elements.

The next-generation Seltos will continue to use the 1.5-liter turbo-petrol and diesel engines in addition to the new hybrid powertrain. The next-generation Seltos are anticipated to reach India anytime in the next year after making their global debut later this year.
New pollution and fuel efficiency regulations that are anticipated to go into effect in 2027 are among the most evident justifications for introducing a Seltos Hybrid into the Indian market.

In order to reach a larger market, Kia is focusing on diversity through a range of powertrain options rather than relying solely on pure ICE or pure EV vehicles. Kia has realized, like many of its category rivals, that a combination of ICE, EV, and now HEV engine options would be the key to market success in India rather than relying only on any one of these for expansion. One of Kia’s international goods, the Seltos is available in practically every market on the planet. It is anticipated that a hybrid version will increase the car’s attractiveness in these areas as well.