Korean carmaker Kia has officially revealed the full specifications of the all-new Seltos, with the spotlight firmly on the nameplate’s hybrid variant, significantly expanding the powertrain lineup. Now in its second-generation, the all-new Kia Seltos marks an important chapter in the model’s history by adopting hybrid electric technology to gear it up for the future.
According to Kia, the Seltos has been its best-selling compact SUV in Korea, recording more than 330,000 units sold domestically between 2019 and 2025. The second-generation Seltos builds on that success with a complete redesign, updated underpinnings, and electrification-focused technology.
The Kia Seltos Hybrid is motivated by a 1.6-liter hybrid powertrain system that delivers a maximum combined output of 141 hp and 265 Nm of torque. Kia claims that this setup enables the Seltos Hybrid to register a combined efficiency rating of 19.5 km/L. The brand sees this as a key step toward electrification within the compact SUV segment.
The model is also equipped with a host of tech to optimize battery use, keeping it charged up for the long haul. This includes a third-generation smart regenerative braking system, which uses navigation and traffic data to automatically optimize regenerative braking and deceleration, including bringing the vehicle to a full stop, if needed. Completing this is a hybrid hierarchical predictive control system that anticipates route and road conditions to manage battery charge levels more efficiently.
Electrification-specific features previously limited to full electric vehicles (EV) also make their way to the Seltos Hybrid. These include a vehicle-to-load (V2L) function with a maximum output of 3.52 kW at 220 V, allowing occupants to power external devices for activities like camping. The hybrid compact SUV also comes with a Stay Mode that enables climate and infotainment operation using the high-voltage battery while stationary, without engine idling.
Alongside the hybrid, Kia continues to offer a 1.6-liter gasoline turbo option producing 193 hp and 265 Nm of torque, with a claimed fuel efficiency of 12.5 km/L. The turbo variant is also available with four-wheel-drive versions to handle snow, rain, mud, among others.
Both the hybrid and the turbocharged internal combustion engine (ICE) powertrains are built on Kia’s new K3 platform. This platform boasts around 20% increase in average body strength through expanded use of ultra high-strength steel and hot stamping. Kia says this enhances collision safety, body rigidity, and overall stability.
Autocar’s Take
The introduction of a hybridized Kia Seltos is relevant nowadays, with more automotive brands transitioning to electrified mobility. It’s even more so relevant in markets like the Philippines, where fuel costs, traffic congestion, and urbanization place a premium on efficiency and convenience. Features such as smart regenerative braking and Stay Mode are well-suited to stop-and-go conditions common in Metro Manila and other major cities, while V2L adds practical value for outdoor and provincial use.
Although the model has been revealed first for Kia’s domestic market, the Seltos Hybrid sets a clear benchmark for what Filipino buyers can expect if and when it arrives locally. It reflects a growing shift toward accessible, real-world electrification rather than full EV adoption, considering the country’s still-developing EV charging infrastructure.
