Kia is preparing to introduce the next-generation Seltos Hybrid to global markets early next year. However, Indian customers will receive a locally adapted hybrid version at a later stage, as the company focuses on cost optimisation and localisation.
India will play a crucial role in the Seltos’ future, as it is expected to be the first market to receive the fully redesigned Seltos in January 2026. While the global hybrid rollout will begin earlier, the India-specific hybrid model is currently targeted for a mid-2027 launch.
Kia Seltos Hybrid India Launch Timeline Revealed
According to industry sources, Kia is aiming to launch the Seltos Hybrid in India by June 2027. The new-generation Seltos has been engineered from the ground up to support electrified powertrains. However, Kia plans to localise key hybrid components to keep pricing competitive in the Indian market, which is why the hybrid variant will arrive later.
Localisation is expected to play a major role in reducing costs and making the hybrid Seltos accessible to a wider customer base.
Kia May Introduce Hybrid Technology on Another Model First
Kia India’s Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Atul Sood, has indicated that the brand may debut its hybrid technology on a different model before bringing it to the Seltos.
Industry insiders believe this model could be the Kia Sorento Hybrid, which has already been spotted undergoing local testing after being imported from South Korea. The Sorento Hybrid is expected to make its India debut around the festive season, helping Kia familiarise customers with hybrid technology ahead of the Seltos Hybrid launch.
Sorento Hybrid to Act as a Technology Showcase
The Sorento Hybrid features a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine paired with an advanced hybrid system, delivering higher performance and efficiency. Kia is likely to use the Sorento as a halo product, demonstrating its hybrid expertise while building market confidence in electrified powertrains.
This strategy could help generate interest and acceptance before the more mass-market Seltos Hybrid arrives.
India-Spec Kia Seltos Hybrid Engine Details
Globally, the Seltos Hybrid will use a 1.6-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. However, Kia does not currently manufacture this engine in India and has no immediate plans to localise it.
To manage costs, the India-bound Seltos Hybrid is expected to use a locally produced 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, adapted to work with a hybrid setup. This engine already powers the standard all-new Seltos sold in India.
Expected Mileage and Performance Improvements
In its current form, the 1.5-litre petrol engine produces 114 hp and 144 Nm of torque. For hybrid duty, Kia is likely to retune the engine to improve efficiency and compatibility with the electric motor.
The Seltos Hybrid is expected to deliver an impressive fuel efficiency of nearly 25 km/l, representing a 35–40% improvement over the regular petrol version.
Advanced Features: Vehicle-to-Load Charging
One of the standout features of the upcoming Kia Seltos Hybrid will be Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) bi-directional charging. This technology allows users to power external devices using energy stored in the hybrid battery pack, adding practicality for outdoor use and emergencies.
Final Thoughts
With the upcoming Seltos Hybrid, Kia is clearly focusing on balancing technology, efficiency, and affordability for the Indian market. While global buyers will get the hybrid earlier, India’s version will be tailored specifically for local needs, making it a highly anticipated launch in the compact SUV segment.
