All-new Kia Seltos SUV teased with radical new look for 2026

Kia played it safe with the first-generation Seltos compact SUV, perhaps a little too safe, but that caution goes to the wind with the all-new model that’s set to make its global debut on December 10.

The second-generation Kia Seltos, judging by this first drop of official teaser images, takes a somewhat more daring approach with its ultra-wide grille that now incorporates the headlights, while slim vertical ‘Star Map’ daytime running lights flank it on each side.

Crafted around Kia’s so-called ‘Opposited United’ design language, the new Seltos has a sleek new shape that seems to take inspiration from the EV4 electric crossover, complete with flush door handles.

Love it or hate it, the redesigned Seltos certainly looks a great deal more modern than the current version.

Details remain thin on the ground, but Kia says it will be available with an expanded range of exterior colours and distinctive trim options such as X-Line and GT-Line.

The powertrain line-up is expected to carry over for the most part, with normally aspirated and turbocharged petrol engines spearheading the internal combustion range; however, a petrol-electric hybrid, also featuring a 1.5 petrol engine, is expected to debut alongside these, India Today reports.

As with the current version the new-gen Kia Seltos will be produced in India, and this is the version we can expect to see in South Africa, likely sometime in 2026. 

“Building on its legacy as one of Kia’s most successful global nameplates, the next-generation Seltos embodies authentic SUV styling while expressing a forward-looking, high-tech character,” Kia said. “The design blends the rugged heritage of past ICE SUVs with the clean, aerodynamic sophistication of Kia’s latest EVs.”

As with the current version, key rivals are expected to be the Hyundai Creta, Renault Duster and Suzuki Grand Vitara.

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