New Delhi: Following the recent introduction of its Seltos SUV in India, Kia has announced plans to launch a hybrid variant of the model in the Indian market. According to a report by Autocar Professional, the Kia Seltos Hybrid is tentatively expected to debut by late 2026 or in the first half of 2027, utilizing the existing 115hp 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine.
While the company has yet to finalize the timeline, it is reportedly prioritizing the localization of hybrid components in India. The same report indicates that the Seltos Hybrid could be introduced within 12 to 18 months, potentially following the launch of the Kia Sorento SUV in India.
The hybrid powertrain is not novel for the Seltos, as the first-generation model is already available with such an option in the American and South American markets.
Localization to Manage Costs
Kia’s emphasis on localization is part of a cost management strategy. The company aims to competitively price the Seltos Hybrid, likely within the range of ₹11.25 lakh to over ₹20 lakh. Without localizing essential hybrid components, including battery packs, motors, control units, and inverters, the SUV’s price could rise significantly, detrimentally affecting its sales prospects.
Future Strategy and Regulatory Benefits
The report also mentions Kia’s ambition for hybrid models to comprise at least 25% of its total sales by 2030. Currently, Kia’s offerings in India include petrol, diesel, and electric vehicles. By incorporating hybrid options into their lineup, Kia aims not only to diversify its vehicle range but also to comply with the forthcoming CAFE 3 regulations, which provide advantages for manufacturers producing hybrid and electric vehicles.
Next-Generation Kia Seltos
Recently, Kia unveiled the next generation of the Seltos SUV in India, emphasizing that the revamped model is both more stylish and practical. The updated Seltos features notable increases in dimensions, as it is now longer and wider, benefiting from an extended wheelbase.
