The Kia Seltos burst onto the Indian automotive scene in 2019, instantly redefining the mid-size SUV segment with its striking design, premium features, and powerful engine options. After a successful first-generation run and a significant facelift in 2023, the automotive world is anticipating the launch of the all-new, second-generation Kia Seltos in 2025 (with a potential launch in early 2026 for the Indian market, following a late 2025 global debut).
The 2025 Seltos is expected to be more than just a model year update; it is a comprehensive generational change. Spy shots and international previews suggest a massive overhaul in design, an upscale interior rivalling luxury segments, and the potential introduction of an eco-friendly strong-hybrid powertrain. This article provides a detailed breakdown of what buyers can expect from the next-gen Seltos in terms of pricing, engine specifications, fuel efficiency, and its ground-breaking interior features.
Expected Price and Variants for the 2025 Seltos
While official pricing for the 2025 model is yet to be announced, the generational change and added technology (especially ADAS and a panoramic sunroof) are expected to lead to a moderate price hike across the lineup.
A. Expected Price Range (Ex-Showroom)
Given the current market prices (which range from approximately ₹10.90 Lakh for the base HTE variant to ₹20.55 Lakh for the top-spec X-Line), the 2025 model is likely to start at a higher entry point.
| Variant Type | Current Price Range (Approx.) | Expected 2025 Launch Price Range |
| Base to Mid-Spec (HTE, HTK) | ₹10.90 Lakh – ₹15.00 Lakh | ₹11.50 Lakh – ₹16.00 Lakh |
| High-Spec (HTX, GTX+) | ₹15.00 Lakh – ₹19.50 Lakh | ₹16.00 Lakh – ₹21.00 Lakh |
| Top-Spec (X-Line, Hybrid) | ₹19.50 Lakh – ₹20.55 Lakh | ₹21.00 Lakh – ₹23.00 Lakh+ |
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B. Variant Segmentation
The kia Seltos will likely retain its familiar three-line strategy, allowing buyers to choose between different aesthetic and feature sets:
- Tech Line (HTE, HTK, HTX): Focuses on comfort, practicality, and standard features.
- GT Line (GTX): Focuses on sporty aesthetics, performance (Turbo Petrol), and the highest technology features.
- X-Line: The top-tier flagship with a unique matte paint finish and exclusive styling elements.
Engine Specs: Power, Performance, and the Hybrid Leap
The 2025 Seltos is expected to continue with its three proven engine options, offering unmatched flexibility in the segment. The biggest news, however, is the likely addition of a strong-hybrid option.
A. Core Engine Lineup (Expected to be Retained)
| Engine Type | Displacement (cc) | Power (PS) | Torque (Nm) | Transmission Options |
| 1.5L NA Petrol | 1497cc | 115 PS | 144 Nm | 6-MT, IVT (CVT) |
| 1.5L Turbo Petrol | 1482cc | 160 PS | 253 Nm | 6-iMT, 7-DCT (Automatic) |
| 1.5L Turbo Diesel | 1493cc | 116 PS | 250 Nm | 6-MT, 6-AT (Automatic) |
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- Highlight: The 1.5L Turbo Petrol engine, a carry-over from the 2023 facelift, remains the segment’s performance benchmark, offering 160 PS of power, making the Seltos the most exhilarating choice in its class.
B. The Strong-Hybrid Powertrain (Expected Addition)
To compete directly with hybrid rivals like the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, the 2025 Seltos is highly anticipated to introduce a Strong-Hybrid variant.
- Configuration: Likely based on the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine paired with an electric motor and a dedicated hybrid transmission.
- Benefit: This option will significantly boost fuel efficiency, particularly in city driving conditions, offering electric-only mode for short distances.
Mileage and Fuel Efficiency (ARAI Figures)
The Seltos’s current engines offer competitive ARAI-certified mileage figures, which are expected to remain consistent for the 2025 model. The potential hybrid variant will likely set a new benchmark for the Seltos lineup.
| Engine & Transmission | ARAI Mileage (kmpl) | Real-World Expectation (kmpl) |
| 1.5L Petrol MT | ∼17.0 kmpl | 11−13 kmpl (City) / 15−17 kmpl (Highway) |
| 1.5L Petrol CVT | ∼17.7 kmpl | 10−12 kmpl (City) / 14−16 kmpl (Highway) |
| 1.5L Turbo Petrol DCT | ∼17.9 kmpl | 10−12 kmpl (City) / 14−16 kmpl (Highway) |
| 1.5L Diesel MT | ∼20.7 kmpl | 15−17 kmpl (City) / 18−20 kmpl (Highway) |
| 1.5L Diesel AT | ∼19.1 kmpl | 14−16 kmpl (City) / 17−19 kmpl (Highway) |
| Hybrid (Expected) | ∼25.0 kmpl (Expected) | 18−20 kmpl (Expected Mixed) |
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The Diesel Manual variant is expected to retain its crown as the most fuel-efficient option among the traditional powertrains.
Interior Features and Technology: The Game Changer
The interior of the 2025 Kia Seltos is where the most dramatic and segment-redefining changes are anticipated, pushing the vehicle into a near-premium category.
A. Dashboard and Infotainment Overhaul
The biggest visible upgrade is the new cockpit design, bringing it in line with Kia’s global design language seen in models like the EV9 and Syros.
- Integrated Dual-Screen Setup: The traditional separate screens will be replaced by a curved, seamless twin-display panel. This setup is expected to feature two large 12.3-inch screens—one for the digital instrument cluster and one for the infotainment system.
- Upgraded Infotainment: The system will run the latest generation of Kia’s infotainment software, offering advanced features like:
- Over-The-Air (OTA) updates.
- Enhanced Kia Connect telematics with more connected car features.
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Ergonomics and Usability: Crucially, Kia is expected to retain physical buttons for climate control, a welcome feature that maintains usability and avoids over-reliance on the touchscreen, a key advantage over some rivals.
B. Comfort and Convenience Features
The 2025 Seltos will raise the bar for comfort features in the mid-size segment.
| Feature Category | 2025 Seltos Feature (Expected) | Segment Status |
| Premium Comfort | Panoramic Sunroof (Major addition over current single-pane) | Top Tier |
| Seat Function | Ventilated and Heated Front Seats (Heated seats likely for export/premium markets) | Segment Leader |
| Driver Assist | Powered Driver and Passenger Seats (Dual-powered seats) | Segment-First/Leader |
| Centre Console | Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) with Auto-Hold | Segment Leader |
| Sound System | Premium Bose 8-Speaker System with Sound Mood Lighting | Segment Leader |
| Rear Seat | Expected enhancements to rear seat recline angle and potentially rear cooling features (on par with Kia Carens Clavis) | Improved Comfort |
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C. Design and Aesthetics
The interior is expected to adopt a cleaner, more contemporary layout with improved materials. Spy shots suggest a GT Line cabin finished in a dual-tone Black and Cream palette, complemented by ambient light strips woven into the dashboard and door panels, creating a sophisticated ambience. The steering wheel will also be redesigned to a new 3-spoke unit with updated physical controls.
Safety and ADAS Level 2 Integration
The Seltos has consistently performed well in safety features, offering Six Airbags as standard across all variants. The 2025 model will further solidify this commitment by introducing a full suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).
A. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS Level 2)
The top variants (GTX+ and X-Line) are expected to feature ADAS Level 2 technology, including:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA): With Car, Pedestrian, Cyclist, and Junction Turning Detection.
- Smart Cruise Control (SCC): Navigation-based with Stop & Go function.
- Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) & Lane Following Assist (LFA).
- Blind Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA).
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist (RCCA).
B. Standard Safety Enhancements
In addition to the standard 6 airbags, the 2025 model will likely feature:
- 360-degree Camera with Blind View Monitor (BVM).
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
- All-Wheel Disc Brakes.
Exterior Design Overhaul: Digital Tiger Face
The exterior design of the 2025 Seltos follows Kia’s latest “Opposites United” philosophy, making it look more upright, muscular, and futuristic.
- Digital Tiger Face: The signature ‘Tiger Nose’ grille will evolve into a wider, more dominant Digital Tiger Face, integrated seamlessly with new, vertical Star Map LED DRLs and sharper headlamps.
- Full-Width Light Bar: The rear will feature a sophisticated full-width LED light bar connecting the C-shaped tail lamps, mirroring the premium look seen on the Kia Carens Clavis and other new-generation SUVs.
- Premium Touches: The overall silhouette is more sculpted. Expect new design alloy wheels (possibly larger 19-inch options on top trims), flush door handles for an added premium touch, and a refreshed front bumper that enhances the SUV’s muscular stance.
Read more : Mahindra XUV 7XO.
Final Verdict
The 2025 Kia Seltos is shaping up to be a true generational upgrade. It maintains its core strength of offering multiple powertrain options (including the exciting Turbo Petrol and the promising Hybrid) while drastically enhancing the two areas where it needed improvement: the technology and luxury quotient of the cabin, and the integration of advanced safety (ADAS).
By introducing the panoramic sunroof, dual 12.3-inch curved displays, and a comprehensive ADAS suite, the new Seltos is not just preparing to renew its rivalry with the Hyundai Creta and Tata Sierra; it is positioning itself as a serious disruptor in the ₹20 Lakh+ segment, offering features previously reserved for vehicles a segment higher. For Indian car buyers, the 2025 Seltos will represent an unparalleled combination of style, performance, and cutting-edge technology.
Would you like a detailed comparison focusing on the feature differences between the expected Kia Seltos 2025 and its primary rival, the Hyundai Creta 2025?