Kia has brought its refreshed electrified lineup to the 2026 Paris Motor Show, highlighted by the European debut of the all-new Seltos Hybrid. This second-generation Seltos is Kia’s second best-selling nameplate globally and marks the brand’s first European model with an electric all-wheel-drive (e-AWD) system and vehicle-to-load (V2L) feature.
New Seltos Hybrid Arrives in Europe
The updated Seltos arrives just months after its global debut in New York. Kia expects it to be a strong contender in Europe, targeting younger buyers looking for a compact and versatile SUV. Measuring 4,430 mm long, 1,830 mm wide, and 1,600 mm tall, the Seltos offers a 2,690 mm wheelbase that balances interior space and urban practicality.
European buyers will have two powertrain options: a traditional internal combustion engine or a hybrid system. The hybrid pairs a 1.6-litre gasoline direct injection engine with an electric motor. It produces 152 horsepower in front-wheel-drive form and 176 horsepower in the e-AWD version. Both variants come with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
The e-AWD system is a first for Kia, designed to improve torque flow, traction, and stability. The Seltos also introduces the V2L capability, allowing the vehicle to supply power externally—new tech for Kia’s European models.
Modern Interior and New Colours
The Seltos features a sophisticated interior centered around a three-screen layout: a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a 5.3-inch climate control screen, and a 12.3-inch infotainment display. Ambient lighting with 64 colour options and an 8-speaker Harman Kardon sound system enhance the cabin experience.
Kia offers ten exterior colours, including three tailor-made for Europe—Tan Beige, Denim Blue, and Pale Gray—adding local appeal to the Seltos’ fresh style.
Expansion of Fully Electric GT Models
Alongside the new Seltos Hybrid, Kia showcased its fully electric GT family at Paris. The lineup now includes the EV3 GT, EV4 GT, and EV5 GT, supplementing the existing EV6 GT and EV9 GT models. The latter two are already established in Europe, helping Kia grow its electric vehicle market share.
Recent ACEA figures show Kia as Europe’s fastest-growing brand among the top ten passenger car makers this year. Hybrid vehicles, led by the Sportage HEV, have been key to this growth, alongside the introduction of models like the Seltos and K4 HEV.
More details about pricing and availability for the new Seltos Hybrid and electric GT models are expected closer to their European launch.
Source: autoevolution.com