Kia Seltos Hybrid Likely To Make India Debut By 2025; What We Know

Kia Motors is working on a hybrid variant of its popular Seltos SUV as part of its next-generation lineup. This hybrid variant of the Kia Seltos SUV is set to debut in 2025. This move indicates a strategic shift for the Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis group, which had been focusing on electric vehicles (EVs) but is now expanding its hybrid range due to a slowdown in EV sales.

During the unveiling of the updated Seltos last year, Kia India had stated that hybrids were for manufacturers that did not have a clear EV strategy, indicating that its EV strategy would take precedence from 2025. However, the company’s recent move to introduce hybrid models demonstrates a strategic shift in response to market conditions.

Kia Seltos Hybrid

The upcoming Seltos hybrid will be the “third generation” model and is likely to feature the 1.6-litre hybrid powertrain found in the Kia Niro and Hyundai Kona Hybrid. These models are built on the South Korean automaker’s small-car platforms. Kia Niro and Hyundai Kona Hybrid are known for their efficiency and performance.

Kia India’s decision is also influenced by market research, which shows that hybrid penetration in the mass market segment in India has reached 2.5 per cent. Additionally, with possible changes in emission regulations in India, the company sees a growth opportunity for hybrid models. The decision to introduce a hybrid Seltos aligns with Kia’s commitment to providing a diverse range of eco-friendly vehicles to meet the needs of different customers and market demands.