Kia Seltos, this is the new compact SUV from the South Korean brand, coming to Europe soon

The Kia Seltos is not a new model in the South Korean brand’s lineup, as this SUV has been and is sold in specific markets, but the brand has now completely renewed it and, given the success it has already achieved, it is becoming a global model that will reach more important markets such as North America or Europe, where we will certainly have to pay close attention, as it promises to give other successful SUVs such as the Toyota CH-R a hard time.

In this way, the Kia Seltos is presented as a compact SUV with a length of up to 4,430 mm, along with a width of 1,830 mm, a height of 1,600 mm, and not forgetting a wheelbase of 2,690 mm. Its design follows the “Opposites United” philosophy we have already seen in the brand’s latest presentations, with an eye-catching front featuring the star map lighting characteristic of Kia, and a vertical design that makes a strong impression thanks to the large central grille that emphasises its width. On the sides it features solutions such as flush door handles and the C-pillar design, which creates the sensation of a floating roof, while the rear, like the front, reinforces its image as a larger SUV, with lights that echo its width and a tailgate with the loading lip set high.

For now, based on what Kia has revealed so far, the Seltos will be marketed in the X-Line trim, which gives it a more SUV-like look thanks to the lower body cladding and the side protections at the bottom of the doors, or in the GT Line trim, with a sportier touch and a greater number of areas painted in the same colour as the rest of the bodywork. Speaking of colours, the Seltos will offer a wide palette, from which Kia highlights Iceberg Green, Gravity Gray and Magma Red matte.

As for the interior of the Seltos, Kia has opted for a horizontal dashboard design positioned low to improve visibility and create a greater sense of space thanks to the size of the windscreen. It features elements such as the panoramic display housing two 12.3-inch screens, one for the instrument cluster and another for the infotainment system, while the climate control system has a dedicated control panel, and we must not forget the Head-Up Display. Obviously, these systems already include OTA update functionality to stay up to date, as well as AI-based assistants.

All these features, together with the adoption of a column-type Shift-by-Wire system, free up space on the centre console and contribute to an interior that feels more spacious for the front seats. In the rear seats, Kia states that the Seltos will offer generous space for both legs and head despite being a compact SUV, and these seats also feature reclining backrests that can be adjusted 12 degrees forward and another 12 degrees backward. To this we must add features such as a panoramic sunroof, 64-colour ambient lighting, and sound systems signed by Harman Kardon or Bose, together with many driver assistance and safety systems such as the 360º camera, safe exit warning, highway driving assist, and lane-keeping assist, among others.

As for its engines, the Kia Seltos offers among its options the 1,600 cc T-GDI petrol engine in power outputs of 180 CV and 265 Nm (with a six-speed manual or dual-clutch automatic gearbox), or with 193 CV and 265 Nm of torque (in this case only available with an automatic gearbox). The option for greater efficiency and smoothness for everyday driving will be handled by the 2,000 cc unit, also petrol, with 149 CV and 179 Nm. Later on, throughout 2026, the Seltos will receive a hybrid variant that will also feature V2L technology. It is worth noting that, optionally, the Seltos can also be equipped with four-wheel drive.

The Kia Seltos will begin its global launch in India, and then gradually reach markets such as Korea, North America, Europe and China throughout 2026.