Kia has showcased the second generation Seltos Hybrid at the 2026 Paris Motor Show with two electrified drivetrain configurations for European markets. The full hybrid system integrates a 1.6-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine and electric assistance through a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The front-wheel-drive model makes around 152 hp and the e-AWD derivative produces 176 hp. The latter gains Kia’s first electrically driven rear axle.
The 1.6-litre GDI four-cylinder petrol engine kicks out around 101 hp and 144 Nm of torque. A front electric motor contributes 60 hp and 203 Nm but the combined system output is lower than the sum of their individual ratings. The e-AWD model receives an additional rear electric motor which is capable of 67 hp and 185 Nm. The electronically controlled setup distributes torque across both axles without a regular mechanical connection to the rear wheels.
The front-wheel-drive Seltos Hybrid accelerates from 0 to 100 kmph in 10.4 seconds and reaches a top speed of 158 kmph. The e-AWD version completes the same sprint in 9.7 seconds but its maximum speed stands at 155 kmph. European WLTP fuel consumption figures are rated at 5.4 litres per 100 km for the front-wheel-drive model and 5.8 litres per 100 km for the e-AWD. These correspond to 18.5 kmpl and 17.2 kmpl respectively. It can also run on electric power alone.
| Specification | 1.6L Hybrid FWD | 1.6L Hybrid e-AWD |
|---|---|---|
| Hybrid Type | Full Hybrid (HEV) | Full Hybrid (HEV) |
| Petrol Engine | 1.6L GDI Four-Cylinder | 1.6L GDI Four-Cylinder |
| Petrol Engine Power | 101 hp | 101 hp |
| Petrol Engine Torque | 144 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Front Electric Motor Power | 60 hp | 60 hp |
| Front Electric Motor Torque | 203 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Rear Electric Motor Power | – | 67 hp |
| Rear Electric Motor Torque | – | 185 Nm |
| Combined Maximum Power | 152 hp | 176 hp |
| Combined Maximum Torque | 261 Nm | 261 Nm |
| Battery Capacity | Approx. 1.3 kWh | Approx. 1.3 kWh |
| Battery Type | Lithium-Polymer | Lithium-Polymer |
| Transmission | 6-Speed DCT | 6-Speed DCT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | Electric AWD |
| 0–100 kmph | 10.4 Seconds | 9.7 Seconds |
| Top Speed | 158 kmph | 155 kmph |
| WLTP Fuel Consumption | 5.4 L/100 km | 5.8 L/100 km |
| Approximate Mileage | 18.5 kmpl | 17.2 kmpl |
| WLTP CO2 Emissions | 122 g/km | 131 g/km |
| Braked Towing Capacity | 910 kg | 810 kg |
| Unbraked Towing Capacity | 750 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle-to-Load | Available | Available |
The hybrid incorporates a lithium-polymer battery rated at 1.3 kWh in Europe. Smart Regenerative Braking System 3.0 automatically adjusts energy recovery based on traffic conditions and navigation information. The Seltos also introduces Vehicle-to-Load functionality which supplies electricity to external appliances through an onboard socket. Another feature called Stay Mode can power the infotainment and climate control systems from the traction battery when the vehicle is stationary.
| Dimension | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Length | 4,430 mm |
| Width | 1,830 mm |
| Height | 1,600–1,620 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,690 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 160 mm |
| Turning Circle | 10.7 m |
| Boot Capacity | 536 Litres |
| Maximum Luggage Capacity | 1,494 Litres |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 Litres |
| Wheel Options | 16, 18 And 19 Inches |
The European Seltos measures 4,430 mm long and 1,830 mm wide on a 2,690 mm wheelbase. The SUV offers 536 litres of luggage capacity which increases to 1,494 litres after folding the rear seats. Both hybrid drivetrains feature a multi-link rear suspension. The front-wheel-drive model supports a braked towing capacity of 910 kg compared with 810 kg for the e-AWD.
The cabin features dual 12.3-inch displays for the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system. Kia’s connected navigation architecture supports wireless smartphone integration, over-the-air software updates and an AI voice assistant. High-end variants also offer a 12-inch head-up display, Digital Key 2 and premium audio equipment. The safety package composes Highway Driving Assist 2, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2, Lane Following Assist 2, etc.
Kia manufactures the European Seltos in South Korea and hybrid deliveries are scheduled to commence soon. The German lineup starts at €37,490 (Rs. 39.87 lakh) for the front-wheel-drive version and €40,190 (Rs. 42.74 lakh) for the e-AWD. Meanwhile, the second-gen Seltos is already available in India with petrol and diesel engines, and the hybrid version will more likely arrive as early as next year.
