New Kia Seltos Hybrid Debuts, India Launch Likely Next Year

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U.S. the first market worldwide to get the Seltos Hybrid with e-AWD, a first for any Kia hybrid model globally

At the 2026 New York International Auto Show on 1 April, Kia held the U.S. debut of the Seltos Hybrid. The company plans to launch the new hybrid SUV in the U.S in late 2026 and is expected to bring it to India a few months later in early 2027.

The Kia Seltos Hybrid has a 1.6-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine linked to a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. An electric motor, also mounted on the front axle, assists the petrol engine.

For the first time on a hybrid Kia, an e-AWD drivetrain layout will also be available. This setup adds an electric motor on the rear axle to provide on-demand all-wheel drive capability, particularly useful in low-grip conditions such as snow and ice during America’s harsh winters.

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Kia already sells the Seltos Hybrid in South Korea, but only in a FWD drivetrain layout. The petrol engine produces 105 PS (104 hp) and 14.7 kgf.m (144 Nm) of torque, and the front electric motor develops 32 kW (43 hp) and 170 Nm of torque. This setup gives 141 PS (139 hp) of system power and 27 kgf.m (265 Nm) of system torque. There’s a strong chance that these figures will be the same in the U.S.-spec Seltos Hybrid FWD.

While the Seltos has a fuel tank with a capacity of up to 50 litres, depending on the engine selected, the Seltos Hybrid has a 38-litre fuel tank. The hybrid SUV delivers a fuel economy of up to 19.5 km/l in South Korea. In addition to higher fuel economy, it offers vehicle-to-load capability, allowing users to supply up to 3.52 kW at 220 V, equivalent to a standard 16 A domestic socket, to power external devices during outdoor activities or a power outage.

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In India, the Seltos Hybrid will have a small, 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine adapted from the Seltos. In the latter, this engine produces 84.4 kW (113 hp) and 144 Nm of torque. e-AWD is highly unlikely to be offered in our market, as it could prove to be too costly for the limited demand it’d see.

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