The Kia Seltos showed up in 2019. It swiftly made a real mark. This happened in the fiercely tough subcompact SUV world. Its crisp design, great features, and fair price caught so many eyes. To be honest, it was a very clever play by Kia. But here’s the kicker: cars evolve fast, right? So, folks are wondering: when is the Seltos getting its big makeover? And will it get fresh engine options? We’ll dive into these questions now. We’ll check out its past, today’s market, and what’s coming next.
I remember thinking it was a strong contender. Its entry truly shook things up. This segment is super crowded, you know? Many models fight for buyer attention. The Seltos offered a unique blend. It brought style and practicality. Drivers needed something fresh. Kia certainly delivered. It even appealed to younger drivers. They look for value and tech. The Seltos offered both generously. It was quite a sight.
A Look Back: The Kia Seltos Story
To understand where the Seltos is going, we first need to know where it started. Kia first showed the Seltos at the 2018 Los Angeles Auto Show. It hit the market in 2019. This SUV was meant to be flexible and stylish. It truly aimed for a younger crowd, too. Kia said the Seltos was for modern adventurers. It bridged the gap between small cars and bigger SUVs. That’s a very smart spot to be.
Sales figures definitely show the Seltos was a hit. In 2020, it became a top seller. Over 50,000 units sold in the US that year alone. This proved people wanted a car mixing practicality with cool style. Fast forward to 2023, and the Seltos is still doing well. Sales keep growing steadily. For instance, in early 2023, Seltos sales went up by 20%. That was compared to the year before. It really shows its continued importance. It stands tall in a crowded market.
However, rivals keep making their cars better. So, an update for the Seltos is becoming important. It seems to me that 2024 is a good time for a redesign. Automakers usually redesign models every four to six years. The Seltos has been around for over four years now. So, a big refresh makes complete sense. Think of it as keeping up. You wouldn’t wear the same clothes forever, right?
When We Might See the Next Big Redesign
Industry chatter suggests the next Kia Seltos redesign could arrive in 2024 or 2025. This timing fits with Kia’s typical plan. They like to keep their cars fresh and competitive. Honestly, that’s just smart business. Kia has already talked about its focus. They are pushing electric and hybrid cars. That focus will likely shape the new Seltos design. It will also influence its performance.
Kia has put a lot of resources into electric car technology lately. Just look at the Kia EV6. It’s won so many awards. That car really shows Kia’s future path. This move toward electric power makes us wonder. Will the Seltos stay a gas-only car? Or will we see hybrid or even full electric versions? That’s the truly exciting part. I am excited to see what they reveal!
In early 2023, Kia’s CEO, Ho Sung Song, spoke about new models. He said Kia wants to launch a new generation of vehicles. He stressed sustainability and innovation. This might mean the Seltos redesign isn’t just about new looks. It could also focus on better performance and eco-friendly choices. The car world is really focusing on being green. So, the Seltos could get hybrid or electric options. This would truly attract environmentally aware buyers. It’s what many people seek.
Possible New Engine Options for the Kia Seltos
Now, let’s talk engines. What new choices might come with the redesign? The current Kia Seltos has two engine options. There’s a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 146 horsepower. Then there’s a turbo 1.6-liter four-cylinder. That one makes 175 horsepower. These engines have worked well for the Seltos. They offer good fuel economy and decent power. But there’s definitely room to grow.
Hybrid Powertrains
Imagine a hybrid version of the Seltos. People really want cars that save gas. A hybrid model could truly boost sales. Hybrids are a growing part of the market right now. The U.S. Department of Energy reported something interesting. Hybrid electric vehicles made up 6% of all car sales in 2022. That’s up from just 2% in 2010. The Seltos could grab some of this market. It could offer a hybrid that mixes efficiency with its unique style.
Kia already has successful hybrid versions of other cars. Think of the Kia Niro or the Kia Sportage. Following this pattern, a hybrid Seltos makes a lot of sense. It might use a 1.6-liter turbo engine paired with an electric motor. This setup could deliver around 200 horsepower. This combination would save gas. It would also improve performance. That makes it a really good choice for many buyers.
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV)
Going even further, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, or PHEV, could be an option. PHEVs let you drive on electric power for short trips. But they keep a gas engine for longer drives. This would likely attract lots of different people. The idea of charging at home is nice. Plus, you still have gas power for road trips. That’s pretty enticing.
Imagine a PHEV Seltos. It could have an electric-only range of about 30 miles. The gas engine would kick in for longer journeys. This mix of tech could be perfect for city drivers. They navigate traffic daily. But they also want freedom for weekend getaways. With the push for more sustainable vehicles, Kia could make the Seltos a leader. This is truly a growing segment. I am eager to see how they implement it.
Fully Electric Version
The car industry is clearly moving toward electric cars. A fully electric Seltos could change everything. The success of the Kia EV6 proves there’s demand for electric SUVs. The International Energy Agency reported something striking. Global electric car sales hit 6.6 million units in 2021. That’s a huge 108% jump from 2020. This trend will keep going. Governments want fewer emissions. Consumers seek greener choices.
A fully electric Seltos might use the Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). This is the same platform as the EV6. This special design allows flexible battery setups. So, the Seltos could offer different ranges. It would depend on what buyers need. A range of 250 to 300 miles per charge would be competitive. This would give buyers a great choice in the EV market.
Market Trends and What Buyers Want
To truly understand the Seltos’s future, we must look at today’s market. We also need to see what buyers prefer. People buying cars now are more informed. They think carefully about their choices. They care about sustainability, safety, and technology. SUV demand continues to rise. This segment made up over 50% of US vehicle sales in 2022. Buyers increasingly want SUVs. So, keeping the Seltos modern is very important.
Safety features are super important for many buyers. A recent J.D. Power survey revealed a lot. 84% of consumers said advanced safety features matter a lot. This is when they buy a new car. So, the next Seltos must have top-notch safety tech. Think adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. These features make driving safer. They also improve the whole driving feel.
Connectivity is also a big deal. Today’s buyers expect their devices to work seamlessly. Features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are no longer optional. They are just expected. The next Seltos must meet these expectations. It needs to stay competitive. Anything less feels old-fashioned.
Expert Views and Industry Thoughts
Car experts have shared their ideas on the Seltos redesign. Karl Brauer, an automotive analyst at iSeeCars, said something helpful. Kia has done an excellent job with the Seltos so far. He thinks the next redesign will focus on tech trends. It will also offer more efficient engines. His words show what most people think. Kia must innovate to stay relevant. The market is always changing.
Automotive journalist Jessica Caldwell from Edmunds also spoke. She stressed what consumers want. Today’s buyers want vehicles that fit their lifestyle. She said the Seltos has a strong base. But it needs to grow. It must keep up with what buyers are seeking. Caldwell’s view truly highlights something. Kia must adapt its plans. This is based on what buyers demand and what the market is doing. Some might argue that focusing too much on electric options could alienate traditional gas-engine fans. However, I believe the overall market shift towards electrification is undeniable. Offering varied powertrains, gas included, would be the most sensible path.
What’s Next: Future Trends and Tips
Looking ahead, the Kia Seltos seems to have a bright future. Car makers are really embracing electric power and new tech. The Seltos is in a good spot to grow with these trends. I am happy to see how much thought Kia puts into these changes. It would truly cater to eco-friendly buyers. Sustainability is a big force in the car world. So, Kia’s promise to make greener cars will truly resonate with many people.
The global market for electric and hybrid cars is set to explode. That’s what many forecasts suggest. BloombergNEF predicts something amazing. Electric vehicles could make up 58% of global passenger car sales by 2040. This shift creates a big chance for Kia. A redesigned Seltos could grab a large market share. It just needs to meet these new demands.
What does this mean for you? If you’re thinking about buying a Seltos, you know. Consider waiting for the refresh. It might offer the exact features you want. Also, think about your driving habits. Are you mostly city driving? A hybrid or PHEV might be perfect. You know, fewer trips to the gas station. It’s pretty convenient. You should also compare it with rivals. Look at what Subaru Crosstrek or Hyundai Kona offer. They also compete fiercely in this segment. Make sure the Seltos still fits your life.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long has the Kia Seltos been available?
The Seltos first came out in 2019.
When might the next major Seltos redesign happen?
Industry talks suggest a redesign could arrive in 2024 or 2025.
What new engine types might we see in the next Seltos?
Possible choices include hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric powertrains.
How are Seltos sales doing lately?
Sales are strong, with a 20% increase in early 2023.
What safety features should I expect in a redesigned Seltos?
Look for advanced features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
Will the new Seltos have better tech inside?
Yes, it will likely include modern connectivity like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Will Kia focus on green options for the Seltos?
Absolutely, Kia is committed to more eco-friendly models across its lineup.
Why are car companies making more hybrids and EVs?
Governments push for lower emissions, and consumers want greener choices.
Could an electric Seltos be built on the same platform as the EV6?
Yes, it could use the E-GMP platform, offering flexible battery choices.
What is a PHEV, and how is it different from a regular hybrid?
A PHEV lets you plug in for electric-only driving. A hybrid charges its battery using the engine and braking.
What kind of range might a fully electric Seltos offer?
It could offer a competitive range of 250 to 300 miles per charge.
Will the new Seltos be expensive?
Pricing details are not out yet, but Kia usually aims for good value.
Will the redesign affect the Seltos’s size?
While looks will change, its overall subcompact SUV size will likely stay similar.
Is there a diesel Seltos option outside the US?
Yes, some global markets do offer diesel engine options.
Will the Seltos still offer AWD?
Yes, all-wheel drive is a key feature and will likely continue.
What colors might the new Seltos have?
New paint options and interior trims usually come with redesigns.
How long do car redesigns usually take?
Automakers typically plan major redesigns every 4-6 years.
Will the Seltos still be made in Korea?
Production locations can vary, but its main assembly remains a strong possibility in Korea.
What kind of warranty does Kia usually offer?
Kia is known for its strong 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Conclusion
The future of the Kia Seltos is a really interesting topic. Car fans and potential buyers are talking about it constantly. The next big redesign should arrive soon. Kia has a huge chance to make the Seltos even better. They can add new engine options and smart technology. I believe the hybrid and electric versions could truly make it stand out.
The Seltos has done so well already. This proves it can be a key player. It truly matters in the subcompact SUV world. As we look ahead, one thing is very clear. Kia’s commitment to new ideas and sustainability will shape the Seltos. And honestly, it will shape the whole car landscape too. What an exciting time to be watching the auto industry!
