The 2026 Kia Seltos has been officially unveiled in India, and this time it feels more premium, more powerful and more modern than ever before. Kia has worked on every single area of this SUV, from the design to the cabin, from features to safety and from engines to technology.
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The result is a mid-size SUV that looks ready to take on strong rivals like Hyundai Creta, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Tata Sierra, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder and Honda Elevate. This new generation model is not just an update, it is a full transformation aimed at young buyers and family users.
A Bolder Look and Bigger Dimensions
The first thing you will notice is that the Seltos has grown up. It adopts a design language that feels much more premium and aligned with Kia’s global cars. It is taller, wider, and longer than before, which gives it a serious road presence.
Here are the standout design changes you need to know:
- New Face: The front end sports a fresh tiger-nose grille paired with vertical lighting that makes the car look wider and more aggressive.
- Sleek Side Profile: It rides on new 18-inch alloy wheels and features flush door handles that pop out, a feature usually reserved for luxury cars.
- Rear Styling: The back gets a new tailgate with connected tail lights and a gunmetal-finish skid plate on the bumper.
- Premium Touches: You get a panoramic sunroof, a shark fin antenna, and a flatter roofline that improves the silhouette.
- Bigger Size: It is now the longest SUV in its segment (4,460 mm) with a longer wheelbase, meaning more legroom for everyone inside.
- New Colours: There are 10 paint options, including two stunning new shades called Morning Haze and Magma Red.
Inside the Cabin: A Tech-Lover’s Dream
Kia has always been good at interiors, but they have taken it to a new level here. The dashboard has been completely redesigned with dual-tone leatherette upholstery that feels soft to the touch. The driver gets a sporty flat-bottom steering wheel, but the real star of the show is the screen.
The car features a massive 30-inch curved display that combines your instrument cluster and infotainment system into one seamless piece of glass. It looks incredibly futuristic. Thankfully, Kia kept physical buttons for the climate control and rotary knobs for other settings, so you don’t have to fiddle with a touchscreen while driving.
Check out the top comfort features available:
- Dual-Zone Climate Control: The driver and passenger can enjoy their own temperature settings.
- Ventilated Seats: A lifesaver for Indian summers.
- Heads-Up Display (HUD): See your speed and navigation on the windshield without looking down.
- Bose Sound System: An eight-speaker setup for premium audio quality.
- Powered Driver Seat: Comes with a memory function so it always remembers your driving position.
- Wireless Tech: Wireless charging pad and wireless support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
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Engine Options and Performance Details of the 2026 Kia Seltos
Kia knows that different drivers want different things, so they are offering three distinct engine options. Whether you want a smooth city drive, a punchy highway cruiser, or a high-mileage diesel, there is an option for you.
Here is a quick breakdown of the powertrain specifications:
| Engine Type | Power | Torque | Transmission Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5-litre Petrol (NA) | 115 hp | 144 Nm | Manual (MT), iVT |
| 1.5-litre Turbo-Petrol | 160 hp | 253 Nm | DCT, Automatic |
| 1.5-litre Diesel | 116 hp | 250 Nm | Manual (MT), Automatic (AT) |
Loaded With Features And Safety Technology
Safety is a huge focus for Indian families today, and the 2026 Kia Seltos does not disappoint. It comes loaded with active and passive safety tech to keep you secure on the road.
- Level 2 ADAS: Includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, and Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control.
- 360-Degree Camera: Makes parking in tight spots incredibly easy.
- Six Airbags: Standard across the range for maximum protection.
- Traction Modes: Dedicated modes for Snow, Mud, and Sand to handle tricky terrains.
- Disc Brakes: All four wheels get disc brakes for better stopping power.
- Electronic Parking Brake: Adds convenience and clears up space in the center console.
Kia Seltos 2026 Booking Details and Expected Price in India
The new 2026 Kia Seltos is officially out in the open, and deliveries are expected to start by mid-January. While the current model starts at around Rs 10.79 lakh, you should expect a price hike given the larger size and premium features.
It faces tough competition from the Hyundai Creta, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Skoda Kushaq, and the newly launched Tata Sierra. However, with its combination of striking looks, a tech-loaded cabin, and multiple engine choices, the 2026 Kia Seltos looks like it is ready to defend its territory.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Booking Amount | Rs 25,000 |
| Price Reveal Date | January 2, 2026 |
| Expected Delivery | Mid-January 2026 |
| Current Model Starting Price | Rs 10.79 lakh (ex-showroom) |
The Kia Seltos new model is expected to be slightly more expensive due to the added features and design changes.
A Quick Overview
Before we dive deep, here’s the essential info:
- Official Launch: January 2, 2026 (Price Announcement)
- Bookings Open: December 11, with a token of ₹25,000
- Expected Delivery: Mid-January 2026
- Key Rivals: Hyundai Creta, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Tata Sierra, Honda Elevate, Skoda Kushaq
Why the 2026 Kia Seltos Can Be the Best Mid-Size SUV Choice in 2026
The new Kia Seltos comes as a complete package for Indian buyers. It offers bold styling, a premium cabin, smart features, strong safety and reliable engine options. With its improved space and modern design, it feels like a perfect SUV for both young users and families.
If you are planning to buy a stylish, safe and feature-rich mid-size SUV in 2026, the Kia Seltos deserves a serious look because it now delivers everything that today’s Indian car buyers truly want.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. When will the 2026 Kia Seltos launch in India?
Ans. Bookings open on December 11 for Rs 25,000, with prices revealing on January 2.
Q2. Is the new Kia Seltos bigger?
Ans. Yes, it is longer, wider, and taller, making it the longest SUV in its segment.
Q3. Does the new Kia Seltos come with a diesel engine?
Ans. It offers 1.5-litre petrol, 1.5-litre turbo-petrol, and 1.5-litre diesel options.
Q4. What are the key safety features in the 2026 model?
Safety is a big highlight. The car comes standard with six airbags and disc brakes on all wheels
Q5. What is the expected price of the new Seltos?
While the official price comes out on January 2, we expect it to cost a bit more than the current model, which starts at Rs 10.79 lakh.
