Overview
- Kia confirmed a Seltos Hybrid at its 2026 CEO Investor Day, and a camouflaged Seltos spotted on Indian roads now points to local validation of the hybrid version.
- Spy shots show the Sorento testing on NH‑8 near Delhi with Pune temporary plates, and reports say the three‑row SUV is being evaluated with self‑charging or plug‑in hybrid options for India.
- The second‑generation Sonet entered road testing in India on Thursday, with outlets reporting a 2027 launch, a shift to Kia’s K1 platform, and a target of a 5‑star Bharat NCAP rating.
- Reports suggest the India‑spec Seltos Hybrid could pair a 1.5‑litre petrol engine with an electric motor for front‑wheel drive, aim for around 25 km/l, keep exterior changes subtle, and add touches like a powered tailgate and vehicle‑to‑load power, with launch likely early next year and heavy localisation to cut costs.
- The sightings strengthen expectations of a staged rollout that spans mass‑market to three‑row segments, a strategy meant to challenge Toyota and Maruti’s established hybrids by offering better city fuel use without home charging.