Kia premieres Seltos Hybrid with electric all-wheel drive

Kia has given the second-generation Seltos Hybrid its European premiere at the Paris Motor Show, introducing the brand’s first electric all-wheel-drive system to a hybrid range that is underpinning its growth in the region. Registrations rose 9.0% from January to August 2026, lifting Kia’s European market share to 4.1%.

Kia says data from the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association show it as the fastest-growing of Europe’s top 10 passenger car brands so far this year. The Sportage hybrid leads that contribution, and the Seltos joins it alongside the Niro and K4.

The Seltos, Kia’s second best-selling model worldwide, enters the crowded C-SUV segment, though no power outputs, pricing or launch date were given. Its all-wheel-drive system splits torque between the axles to aid traction and stability. The K4 Hybrid, offered as a hatchback and Sportswagon estate, also made its European show debut ahead of production starting on 15 October 2026.

Kia also brought its full five-model electric GT range, including the new EV3 GT, EV4 GT and EV5 GT, alongside Cargo and Passenger versions of the PV5. The PV5 is the first model in Kia’s Platform Beyond Vehicle family of electric vans, which grew further when the PV7 was unveiled at IAA Transportation in Hannover.

Why this matters:

• Hybrids drive Kia’s European gains. Registration growth of 9%, led by the Sportage HEV, suggests full hybrids remain Kia’s strongest route to market share alongside its BEVs, bringing it into more direct competition with Toyota.
• Trade access is an advantage, for now. Duty-free access under the EU-Korea free trade agreement gives Kia a price edge over tariffed Chinese rivals, though emerging “Made in Europe” preferences could narrow that advantage for imported models.
• Vans become the next battleground. The expanding PV5 range and the incoming PV7 bring a dedicated electric van platform into a segment long dominated by Renault, Stellantis, Ford, Mercedes and Volkswagen.