In the cutthroat world of the family SUV, standing still is essentially moving backwards. Kia knows this better than most, which is why they haven't wasted any time teasing the next-generation Seltos.
With its global reveal set for December 10, it has let loose a few shadowy teaser images to whet our appetites. The teaser shots reveal a silhouette that leans heavily into a rugged aesthetic, borrowing from both the brand's larger combustion-engined haulers and its electric lineup.
Squaring Up
The first thing you notice is the shape: it seems that the new model is adopting a more upright, traditional SUV stance. The proportions look chunkier, suggesting Kia is chasing a more robust road presence that buyers in this class seem to crave.
The lighting signature is getting a rework, too. Kia calls it their "Star Map" design—a constellation of horizontal and vertical LED elements we've already seen on the EV9 and the refreshed Carnival. It gives the front end a wide, assertive look, making sure you don't mistake this SUV for anything else in the car park.
Flush With Success
Perhaps most surprising for a subcompact SUV, though, are the flush door handles. Usually the preserve of high-end luxury cars or aerodynamically obsessed EVs, this feature is now making its way down the product levels. It's a small touch that's there because everyone loves them-they look cool and make the car stand out.
Kia has also confirmed that the new Seltos will be offered in expanded paint colour options, over and above the standard range.
Trim and Tech
We know the rugged "X-Line" trim will return to please those who like their SUV to look like it could tackle rough terrain, even if it only ever tackles the daily commute. It will be joined by a sportier "GT-Line" that will probably feature body-coloured wheel arch cladding and sportier accents.
Under the bonnet, things are less clear-cut. Currently, there's a choice of petrol engines depending on the market, usually a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated unit and a punchier 1.6-litre turbo. A petrol-hybrid powertrain might also be on the cards.
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FAQs
When will the new Kia Seltos be released? The full global reveal is scheduled for December 10, 2025. It's expected to hit showrooms shortly after.
Is the Seltos an SUV or a crossover? Technically, it sits in that grey area, but Kia markets it as a compact SUV. Its rugged styling and available all-wheel drive give it more credibility than a standard hatchback on stilts.
Will the new Seltos be electric? There's no word on a full EV version just yet. Styling-wise, it adopts some Kia EV cues-the flush door handles, for one-but it's likely the Seltos will stay combustion-focused, with hybrid variants slotted in to help bridge the gap.
What engines will the new SUV have? Kia hasn't confirmed the powertrains for the next generation. The current model typically uses a 2.0-litre and a 1.6-litre turbo depending on the market, and it's possible updated versions of these will carry over, perhaps with improved efficiency or mild-hybrid assistance.
Why does it have flush door handles? Mainly for style and aerodynamics. And because people love them. Flush handles smooth out the side profile of the SUV, decreasing drag slightly while giving the car a cleaner, more modern look akin to more expensive vehicles.
