Kia is well ahead of most of its rivals when it comes to electrification. In addition to the Soul EV and the three versions of the Niro, the Korean brand has added two hybrid versions to the Sorento for 2022 and will do the same with the next-gen Sportage for 2023.
The popular Seltos could be the next to follow suit. It must be said that hybrid subcompact SUVs and crossovers are almost non-existent on our continent… beyond the aforementioned Niro! Subaru offers a Crosstrek PHEV, but we don’t see it anywhere (too expensive and too little electric range).
Having launched as a 2021 model, it looks like the Seltos will be entitled to a midterm update as early as 2023 and that will include the addition of an optional hybrid powertrain. At least that’s what the site reports Korean Car Blog this week.
Photo: Kia
This hybrid version would replace the diesel engine in the markets where it is offered, but it would also be marketed elsewhere. Even in North America? It’s possible. On the other hand, some will point out that the cousin of the Seltos, the Hyundai Kona, reserves its hybrid version for Europe.
Either way, the Seltos Hybrid would borrow its technology from the Niro – a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and 32-kilowatt electric motor that together generate 139 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. .
Now, why would Kia Canada sell two mechanically identical small utility vehicles? Good question. Admittedly, the Niro has a slightly more urban vocation, while the more spacious Seltos is suitable for more situations. In addition, unlike the first, the second is available with all-wheel drive. However, a four-wheel-drive Seltos hybrid probably wouldn’t be able to consume as little as 4.6 L / 100 km, like the Niro does.
Photo: Kia
We will know more during the year 2022. In addition, there are very few developments on the side of the 100% electric Seltos that we told you about in June 2020 after internal documents leaked. A prototype was reportedly seen on the road in South Korea in the summer of 2021, but it’s not clear whether it was a version of the Seltos or another Kia electric vehicle.
Remember that the company plans to launch 11 new electric vehicles by 2026, including seven unmatched combustion models that will be based on the new specific platform designed in partnership with Hyundai.