Kia has announced that its new second-generation Seltos SUV will be coming to the UK – a hybrid family car that will rival the Nissan Qashqai and Hyundai Tucson.
Hybrid-only for the UK
While the Seltos range will include both petrol and hybrid options in other markets, the SUV will be only offered with a petrol-electric hybrid powertrain in the UK. The system pairs a petrol engine with an electric motor, producing 154hp in front-wheel-drive form or 178hp with all-wheel drive.
This puts it broadly in line with key rivals, but a key difference is that the Seltos introduces ‘e-AWD’ electrified all-wheel drive, which allows torque to be distributed between axles electronically to improve cornering stability. It’s also the first hybrid Hyundai to offer vehicle-to-load (V2L), allowing the car to power external devices—something not currently offered on most hybrid rivals.
How big is it?
At just under four and a half metres long, the Seltos is almost identical in size to the Nissan Qashqai, which measures around 4.425m.
Opening the boot lid reveals 536 litres of luggage space, which is more than the Qashqai offers and is competitive with the Hyundai Tucson, which offers around 546 to 620 litres depending on version.
Rear seat flexibility is also a focus, with reclining seats and a flat-folding load area designed to improve everyday usability.
Interior and technology
Inside, the Seltos adopts a layout similar to Kia’s newer electric models, with a panoramic infotainment display setup combining two 12-inch screens and a separate climate control panel.
Additional features highlighted in the press material include:
- A head-up display that projects driving information on to the windscreen
- 64-colour ambient lighting
- ‘Digital key’ and over-the-air updates
- A Harman Kardon audio system on higher trims
Availability
The new Kia Seltos will be introduced in Europe during 2026, with UK models arriving later in the year. Full UK specifications, trim levels and pricing are expected to be announced in the second half of this year.
