Kia has officially taken the wraps off the 2026 Seltos, choosing New Delhi as the stage for its global premiere. The Seltos has always been an important SUV for the brand, and the new-generation model continues that role as it prepares to reach multiple markets worldwide. What makes this debut even more significant is that global production will begin in India, highlighting the country as a central hub for the second-generation Seltos.
Kia confirmed that pre-bookings in India open tonight, while prices will be revealed on January 2, 2026. The SUV will be manufactured at the company’s Anantapur facility in Andhra Pradesh.
Exterior Design and Dimensions
The 2026 Seltos adopts Kia’s latest design philosophy, giving it a sharper and more confident look. The SUV is now 4,460 mm long, 1,830 mm wide, and sits on a 2,690 mm wheelbase. The overall stance is more muscular, but the design remains clean and modern.
At the front, the Seltos now carries a wider grille inspired by Kia’s new global SUV family. The headlamps follow a squarish theme and are paired with vertically arranged LED DRLs, along with an additional LED signature at the edges for a distinctive road presence. The bumper has also been redesigned with dark cladding and body-colored detailing around the fog-lamp housing.
The profile shows the biggest shift in character. The new Seltos uses sharper creases, thicker cladding, and newly added flush-fitting door handles. The window line still tapers towards the C-pillar, but a blacked-out trim creates a wraparound effect that visually connects the side and rear.
The rear design is cleaner than before. The number plate now sits lower on the bumper, freeing up the tailgate for a more sculpted look. The highlight here is the inverted L-shaped LED tail-lamp setup, which stretches across the width of the SUV. Kia has also added a sporty rear spoiler and new 18-inch alloy wheels with a geometric pattern.
Interior: Space, Technology and Comfort
Step inside, and the new Seltos feels wider and more open due to its horizontal dashboard layout. Kia says both headroom and legroom have improved, giving the cabin a more relaxed feel. Premium touches stand out, from the panoramic sunroof to ventilated front seats, 64-colour ambient lighting, and a Bose audio system.
The cockpit is centered around a dual 12.3-inch display setup—one for the instrument cluster and the other for infotainment. Below it sits a separate climate control panel for easy access. The new Seltos also supports OTA updates, a Digital Key 2, and an in-built AI assistant for voice-controlled functions. Rear passengers benefit from reclining second-row seats, adding more comfort on long trips.
Kia’s Connect Store will offer digital services and entertainment features, allowing owners to personalise the vehicle’s tech over time.
Engine Options and Transmissions
For the Indian market, Kia is continuing with a familiar but proven engine lineup. The 2026 Seltos will be available with:
- A 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 113.4 bhp and 144 Nm
- A 1.5-litre turbo-petrol (T-GDI) delivering 157.8 bhp and 253 Nm
- A 1.5-litre diesel engine generating 114.4 bhp and 250 Nm
Transmission choices remain wide, including 6MT, 6iMT, IVT, 7DCT, and 6AT. This variety ensures options for both everyday users and those seeking a more responsive driving feel.
Trim Levels and X-Line Styling
The 2026 Seltos will be offered in eight variants: HTE, HTK, HTX, GTX, HTE (O), HTK (O), HTX (A) and GTX (A). Kia will also continue the popular X-Line theme, exclusive to the GTX and GTX (A) trims.
The X-Line package includes a stronger visual identity with gloss-black skid plates, dark gunmetal accents, and a cabin finished in smoky black and hunter green. The seats follow the same two-tone theme with leatherette upholstery. It also features 18-inch black-painted alloy wheels and comes in two exclusive colours: Matte Graphite and Aurora Black Pearl.
Also Read: 2026 MG Hector Launch on 15 December: First Official Teaser Released
Safety Features
Safety takes a big step forward with 24 standard safety features across the lineup. These include six airbags, electronic stability control, hill-start assist, and rear occupant alert.
Kia is also offering Level 2 ADAS with 21 advanced features, including forward collision warning, lane keep assist, smart cruise control with stop-and-go ability, blind view monitor, 360-degree camera, and side parking sensors. This positions the new Seltos among the most safety-focused SUVs in its segment.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Kia Seltos arrives as a more refined, feature-rich, and technologically advanced SUV, while retaining the versatility that made it a global success. With new styling, a premium interior, multiple engine options, and an extensive safety suite, Kia has strengthened the Seltos’ appeal for both Indian and international buyers. As production begins in India and bookings open, the new Seltos is set to play a defining role in Kia’s global strategy for years to come.
