Kia and Hyundai are working on a strong hybrid powertrain for their C segment SUVs. It is also expected to be launched in India along with both Hyundai and Kia SUVs. Kia Motors introduced the Seltos Hybrid for the US market at the New York Auto Show, featuring a strong hybrid setup, which is expected to be launched in the USA by the end of 2026 and then in India in 2027.
Now, a Kia Seltos test mule has been spotted testing in India in full camouflage even after its launch in the country in January 2026. Connecting the dots, one can speculate that this new test model could be the Kia Seltos Hybrid, which will be launched in 2027. Let’s take a closer look.
Testing the Kia Seltos Hybrid?
A new Kia Seltos test mule has been spotted testing in India with full camouflage. It is sporting red registration plates from Pimpri-Chinchwad RTO in Pune, Maharashtra. These Test Mule spy shots were posted by Reddit user r/CarsIndia and they show this upcoming vehicle from its rear and side.
There’s a good chance that this is the Seltos Hybrid, which is scheduled to be launched in India sometime in 2027. Further strengthening this speculation is a structure protruding from the floor, which can be seen from behind. This is where high-voltage batteries would logically be placed in a stronger hybrid vehicle.
It should be noted that the strong hybrid powertrain of Hyundai and Kia is of the self-charging type and not the plug-in hybrid type. Therefore, one cannot charge the battery by plugging it in. The battery will be recharged by capturing energy from onboard regenerative braking. This battery will drive the vehicle in pure electric mode for short distances at limited speeds.
what to expect?
This self-charging strong hybrid setup is expected to be based on the 1.6L 4-cylinder NA petrol engine from Hyundai and Kia, which is a common trend among the strong hybrid C segment 4.2m to 4.5m SUV space. Performance metrics could be around 140 bhp and 265 Nm (combined), mated to an automatic gearbox. The Seltos Hybrid will have a slightly smaller boot and will lack a spare wheel.
Earlier this year, Kia Motors launched its second generation Seltos in the country. It is the longest in its segment, which gives the feel of a big car, and also puts a burden on the buyer’s pocket. Prices range between Rs 10.99 lakh to Rs 19.99 lakh (ex-sh) and some of them are already circulating across the country.