Kia Australia commits to hybrid-only Seltos with no cheaper petrol option

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 6 Nov, 07:30 · Archive

Kia Australia will not introduce cheaper petrol or mild-hybrid versions of the new second-generation Seltos small SUV. Raymond Pok, senior manager for product planning at Kia Australia, told CarExpert that whilst the brand has alternative powertrains available globally, it is 'pretty confident' in the Seltos Hybrid and believes it is 'the right fit' for the Australian market.

Kia has observed increased demand for hybrid powertrains across its other SUV models, particularly the Sportage mid-size SUV. Pok stated: 'We think that's where the market's at.' The company therefore believes an all-hybrid lineup for the Seltos aligns with current market trends and consumer preferences in Australia.

The new 2027 Seltos Hybrid starts from $37,990 plus on-road costs, or $39,990 drive-away. This represents a substantial price increase compared to the previous petrol-only model, which began at $31,250 plus on-road costs. In other markets, the Seltos remains available with petrol engines: Europe offers a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol with 132 kilowatts, whilst the Korean domestic market receives a more powerful 142-kilowatt version of the same engine.

Kia Australia commits to hybrid-only Seltos with no cheaper petrol option — Image: The West Australian

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How it is being reported

2027 Kia Seltos: "No plans" for cheaper, petrol-only small SUVThe new Seltos is likely to stay hybrid-only, with Kia Australia saying there are no firm plans to introduce cheaper non-electrified versions here.The West Australian · 6 Nov, 07:14
2027 Kia Seltos: "No plans" for cheaper, petrol-only small SUVThe new Seltos is likely to stay hybrid-only, with Kia Australia saying there are no firm plans to introduce cheaper non-electrified versions here.Perth Now · 6 Nov, 07:14

In this story: Kia Australia · Kia · Raymond Pok · Australia · Europe · Korea

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