Kia's Seltos Is Set for a Significant Redesign | Carscoops

      The revamped subcompact crossover has a larger, boxier appearance and may feature a hybrid engine option.

      Recent spy shots reveal the updated Kia Seltos shedding its camouflage. The design is more angular yet evolutionary, with a sleek style. It is anticipated to launch next year with a hybrid powertrain.

      The Seltos is crucial to Kia's portfolio, with nearly 60,000 units sold in the U.S. last year. However, its current iteration, which debuted in 2019, is starting to feel dated.

      Kia is now developing a refreshed crossover that has been spotted testing in Europe. Although still heavily disguised, the wrapping has been partially removed, allowing for a glimpse of several new features.

      Among the most striking updates is a more upright front end that seems to resonate with newer models like the Sportage, Sorento, and Carnival. It has a broad grille flanked by stacked LED headlights. Below, a boxier bumper is complemented by a large intake interrupted by a centrally positioned sensor.

      Towards the back, there is a distinctive hood and pronounced fenders, connected by a relatively flat roof and a recognizable greenhouse. The crossover appears to have grown a bit, though it’s difficult to ascertain definitively at this stage.

      The rear remains largely obscured, but it's evident that the license plate holder has shifted from the liftgate to the bumper. We also catch a glimpse of taller LED taillights that seem to resemble those of the EV5.

      Kia has not divulged much information about the model, but it is expected to debut next year with a hybrid engine option. This will likely be the 1.6-liter turbo system that Hyundai Motor Group announced in April, which is said to enhance fuel efficiency by over 4%.

      Additionally, the Hyundai Motor Group revealed an e-AWD system featuring a rear-mounted electric motor to deliver improved traction in various weather conditions and boost performance.

      In an exciting development, the Seltos is expected to be offered in Europe for the first time, along with availability in several other markets as the popularity of crossovers continues to rise.