Description
Welcome to my first drive and review of the all-new Kia Seltos 2026, making its European debut! In this video, I take a detailed look at Kia’s newest compact SUV, covering the exterior, interior, technology, practicality and driving experience on German roads.
The new Kia Seltos is Kia’s second best-selling model worldwide and arrives in Europe with a completely new design inspired by Kia’s latest electric vehicles, a spacious interior, advanced technology and multiple powertrain options.
Today I’m testing the Kia Seltos X-Line powered by the 1.6L T-GDI turbo petrol engine producing 180 hp and 265 Nm, paired with a 7-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) and front-wheel drive.
One of the biggest highlights is the upcoming 1.6 Full Hybrid, which will arrive later this year. It features Kia’s new e-AWD system, using an electric motor on the rear axle, making it Kia’s first hybrid with electric all-wheel drive. Even more impressive, it will also become the first Hyundai Motor Group hybrid to feature Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology.
Inside, the Seltos offers dual 12.3-inch displays, a 5.3-inch climate display, wireless smartphone integration, OTA updates, Kia AI Assistant, Digital Key 2.0, ambient lighting, relaxation seats, panoramic roof, Harman Kardon premium audio and a generous 536-litre boot.
During this first drive, I share my impressions of the comfort, suspension, steering, visibility, performance and overall driving experience to see whether the new Kia Seltos has what it takes to become Kia’s next best-selling SUV in Europe.
Would you choose the new Kia Seltos over the Sportage or Toyota Corolla Cross? Let me know in the comments!
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Technical Specifications (Tested Vehicle)
* Model: Kia Seltos X-Line 2026
* Engine: 1.6L T-GDI Turbo Petrol
* Cylinders: 4
* Power: 180 hp (132 kW)
* Torque: 265 Nm
* Transmission: 7-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic (DCT)
* Drive: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
* 0-100 km/h: 8.8 seconds
* Top Speed: 210 km/h
* WLTP Fuel Consumption: 6.9 L/100 km
* Drag Coefficient: Cd 0.31
Dimensions
* Length: 4,430 mm
* Width: 1,830 mm
* Height: 1,600 mm
* Wheelbase: 2,690 mm
* Ground Clearance: 190 mm
* Boot Capacity: 536 L
* Wheels: 16”, 18” or 19”
Suspension
* Front: Independent MacPherson
* Rear (FWD): Torsion Beam
* Rear (AWD): Multi-Link Independent
Driving Modes
* Eco
* Normal
* Sport
Upcoming Hybrid Version
* 1.6 GDI Full Hybrid
* 154 hp (2WD)
* 178 hp (e-AWD)
* Kia’s first Hybrid with Vehicle-to-Load (V2L)
* Hyundai Motor Group’s first Hybrid with electric AWD (e-AWD)
DISCLAIMER: This video and description contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, we will receive a small commission.
#kia #seltos