Kia is slowly but steadily preparing its next phase in India, and this time the focus is clearly on electric and hybrid vehicles. While many buyers are waiting for an electric version of the Seltos, Kia has made it clear that a pure electric Seltos is not coming anytime soon. Instead, the company’s first big electric move for the mass market will be the Kia Syros EV, which is planned for 2026. Alongside this, Kia has also confirmed that the Seltos will go hybrid in 2027, showing a step-by-step approach rather than rushing into full electrification.
Kia Syros EV: India Launch Planned for 2026
The Kia Syros EV has been officially confirmed for India and is expected to arrive sometime in 2026, most likely during the middle of the year. This model will be Kia’s first electric SUV developed with Indian buyers in mind, rather than adapting an existing global product.
Test vehicles have already been seen on Indian roads, which suggests that Kia is actively working on local testing and tuning. This also indicates that the Syros EV is not just a concept or future plan, but a product that is moving steadily toward production.
A Standalone Electric SUV, Not a Seltos-Based EV
It is important to understand that the Syros EV is a separate model, not an electric version of the Seltos. Kia is treating it as its own product, built specifically as an electric SUV. This approach allows the company to design the car around battery placement, space, and efficiency instead of modifying an existing petrol model.
The Syros EV will sit on a modified K1 platform, which is already used internationally for small electric vehicles. This platform choice points toward a compact, city-friendly SUV that still offers enough space and practicality for everyday use.
Design Direction of the Kia Syros EV
In terms of styling, the Syros EV is expected to look familiar but clearly electric. It will carry forward the tall and upright shape of the regular Syros, which helps with cabin space and road presence. At the same time, Kia will add EV-specific touches to set it apart.
These changes are expected to include a closed front grille, special alloy wheels designed to improve efficiency, clear electric badging, and a front-mounted charging port. The idea is to give the Syros EV its own identity without making it look too futuristic or unfamiliar.
Battery Size and Real-World Driving Range
Kia is likely to offer two battery options with the Syros EV. The smaller battery is expected to be aimed at daily city use, offering a practical range that suits regular commuting. The larger battery option should deliver a longer driving range, making highway trips and longer journeys more comfortable.
In real-world conditions, the Syros EV is expected to offer enough range to handle city driving easily, with occasional highway use without constant range anxiety. This balance will be important for buyers who are switching to electric vehicles for the first time.
Cabin Experience and Key Features
Inside, the Syros EV is expected to feel modern and well-equipped. Kia is likely to focus heavily on comfort and technology, as these are areas where Indian buyers now place high importance. Features such as a panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats for both front and rear passengers, and a large connected digital display setup are expected.
On the safety side, the Syros EV is also likely to offer advanced driver assistance features, helping with highway driving and improving overall safety. This will allow it to compete strongly with other electric SUVs already on sale in India.
Expected Pricing and Competition
The Kia Syros EV is expected to be positioned in a price range that keeps it accessible to a wide group of buyers. It will sit in the same space as popular electric SUVs already available in India, going up against models from Tata, Mahindra, and MG.
Kia’s challenge will be to balance price, range, and features in a way that feels like good value, especially for first-time EV buyers.
Also Read: 5 New Honda Cars Launching in 2026: Expected Models and Key Details
What’s Happening with the Kia Seltos EV and Hybrid?
For those waiting specifically for a Kia Seltos EV, there is still no confirmed launch plan. Kia has not shared any official timeline for an all-electric Seltos, even though development work is believed to be happening in the background.
What Kia has confirmed, however, is a Seltos hybrid for 2027. This version will use strong hybrid technology and will also support Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, allowing owners to power external devices using the car’s battery. This shows that Kia sees hybrids as an important step before moving fully to electric models in this segment.
Final Thoughts
Kia’s electric strategy for India is clearly a phased one, not a rushed transition. The Syros EV in 2026 will be the company’s first major electric SUV for the mass market, while the Seltos hybrid in 2027 will cater to buyers who are not yet ready to go fully electric. For now, those waiting for a Seltos EV will need patience, as Kia seems focused on building the right foundation before making that move.
