Petrol, Hybrid, and Tech-Packed: The 2026 Kia Seltos Hits the UK
Kia has taken the covers off the second generation Seltos, one of its biggest sellers worldwide, and for the first time it is officially heading to Europe. The model first appeared back in 2019. The automaker positioned it between the smaller Stonic and the larger Sportage. Since then, it has done serious numbers in markets like India, Mexico, and South Korea. On a global level, only the Sportage sells more for Kia.
This new Seltos looks nothing like the old one. The design is sharper and more confident, following Kia’s latest styling direction. In simple terms, it looks tougher and more modern. From certain angles, it even feels like a smaller take on the electric EV5. The front end is wide and bold, with lighting built into the grille. At the back, a full-width LED light bar wraps around and gives it a more upmarket feel.
At 4.43 metres long, the Seltos sits in an awkward but busy part of the market. It is bigger than most small SUVs but not quite a full family SUV either. Think Volkswagen T-Roc territory. Size-wise, it lines up closely with Kia’s own Niro and Xceed, although it is not expected to replace either. UK trim details are still under wraps, but Kia has already confirmed that the familiar GT-Line version will be available.
Inside, the changes are even more obvious. The old cabin was starting to feel tired, and Kia clearly knew it. The new layout is cleaner and more modern, similar to what we have seen in newer models like the EV3. Physical buttons are kept to a minimum. Digital screens are joined together across the dash. Materials and colours have been used with more confidence, making the cabin feel less basic and more considered.
For now, Kia has only shared the global engine options. These include a 1.6-litre turbo petrol with either 178bhp or 190bhp, along with a 147bhp non-turbo petrol engine. For the UK, the least powerful petrol is the most likely option at launch. Kia has also confirmed that a hybrid version will arrive in 2026.
Details on that hybrid are thin, but there is an interesting clue. Kia says the car will support vehicle-to-load technology. This means it can power or charge external electrical devices. That strongly points towards a plug-in hybrid setup rather than a mild or full hybrid.
Prices have not been announced yet. Still, early expectations put the starting figure at around £26,000. That places it right between the Stonic and the Sportage in Kia’s range. The full UK launch plan has not been laid out, but more concrete information is expected in early 2026.
Can’t wait for the Kia Seltos to arrive in the UK? You don’t have to sit on your hands. At Hilton Car Supermarket, we already have a wide choice of Kia models ready to drive away today, including the ever-popular Kia Sportage. If you like the look and idea of the Seltos, its bigger cousin offers the same Kia quality, smart design, and everyday practicality, with more space to enjoy right now. Take a look through our current stock and find a Kia that fits your life today, not sometime next year.
Source and Images: CarMagazine UK