Kia has launched the Seltos compact SUV in the European market with its first-ever e-AWD drivetrain. The 2026 Kia Seltos Hybrid or HEV is expected to be launched in the UAE later this year with high fuel efficiency and powerful performance.

2026 Kia Seltos Hybrid: Engine, specs, mileage

The new-generation Kia Seltos Hybrid SUV is based on the new 1.6-litre TGDI four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine. This engine is paired with a 1.49 kWh battery pack with self-charging technology.

The Seltos Hybrid SUV is further offered with a front-wheel drive and an e-AWD (all-wheel drive) configuration. The 2WD variant of the Seltos Hybrid makes 152 bhp, while the e-AWD variant makes 178-179 bhp of peak power output.

While the brand has not revealed the official fuel economy figures for the European market, the new 2026 Seltos Hybrid delivers up to 19.5 km/l mileage in South Korea. We believe that the fuel efficiency figures will be the same for all markets, including the UAE.

This powertrain is paired to a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Seltos Hybrid also gets three driving modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport. Additionally, it comes equipped with features like V2L or Vehicle-to-Load charging, which can charge camping appliances from the car, and a Regenerative Braking System 3.0.

Exterior design

The 2026 Seltos Hybrid is based on the new-generation K3 platform. It offers a new design philosophy with exterior design cues like the vertical LED headlights, a set of connected LED taillights, streamlined body panels, flush door handles, dual-tone 18-inch alloys, a “teeth” style front grille, and roof rails.

Interior and features

The interior design of the new Seltos Hybrid features a five-seater configuration with ample legroom and storage spaces. It features a dual 12.3-inch connected display on the dashboard with a new three-spoke steering wheel, a column shifter, and comfortable seats with soft-touch materials on the door pads and the dashboard.

The SUV comes loaded with features such as:

• BOSE sound system
• Level 2 ADAS safety suite
• Wireless charging with ventilation
• Ventilated front seats with electric adjustment
• Electric tailgate
• LED ambient lights
• Panoramic sunroof
• Dual-zone climate control

When will it launch in the UAE?

The new-generation 2026 Kia Seltos Hybrid is expected to be introduced in the GCC market by the end of this year. With its powerful performance, e-AWD all-wheel drive system, and high fuel economy, it will become an optimum choice for the UAE commuters.

Meanwhile, you can also search for the best used Kia Seltos cars in Dubai with Cars24 UAE.

Also read: 2026 XPENG GX SUV previewed in the UAE: Range Rover rival arrives