New-Generation Seltos Goes on Sale in Korea
The second-generation Kia Seltos made its global debut last month, and it’s a noticeable upgrade for one of the brand’s key models. The SUV now looks tougher, borrowing sharper lines from the Telluride, and the new X-Line trim gives it a bit more attitude. But the real headline is the arrival of a hybrid version – a first for the nameplate and probably the version fans have been waiting for.
When the Seltos made its global debut, Kia barely talked about the hybrid. It was mentioned, then quickly brushed aside. Now that the Seltos is on sale in Korea, we finally get the full story on what the electrified model actually offers.
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Hybrid vs. Gasoline Turbo
The Seltos Hybrid pairs a 1.6-liter gasoline engine with an electric motor, producing a combined system output of 141 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy is rated at roughly 46 mpg combined when converted from Korea’s test cycle – a notably strong figure for an SUV of this size and compared to the outgoing pure-combustion model’s combined 25 mpg EPA figure.
But if you’re after punchier performance, the hybrid doesn’t quite match the gas models. The 1.6 turbo Seltos puts out 193 hp with the same torque, so it’s noticeably faster when you need to merge or overtake. The difference isn’t just on the spec sheet – you’ll feel it from behind the wheel.
The turbo model will likely be the pick for drivers who want a more responsive, energetic Seltos. The hybrid, on the other hand, is tuned for smoother, quieter drives and fewer trips to the pump.
Where the hybrid stands out is in its tech. It brings features you won’t find on the gas versions, like vehicle-to-load capability for powering gadgets up to 3.5 kW, a Stay Mode that keeps the AC and infotainment running without the engine running, and adaptive regen braking that adjusts based on traffic and navigation info.
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When Will it Arrive in America?
In Korea, the Seltos Hybrid starts at 28.98 million won, or about $21,500, and tops out at 35.84 million won (roughly $26,500) for the X-Line. The turbo gas models come in lower, starting around $18,300. Of course, US pricing will likely be different once the Seltos lands here.
Kia is launching both gas and hybrid Seltos models in Korea first. The new Seltos should hit US showrooms later this year as a 2027 model, but it’s still up in the air if the hybrid will make the trip over. Given the popularity of hybrids last year, we won’t be surprised if the electrified Seltos gets an American visa as well.
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