If you thought the mid-size SUV segment couldn’t get any hotter, think again. Kia has just dropped a massive bomb on the automotive world with the reveal of the Next-Gen 2026 Kia Seltos. This isn’t just a facelift; it’s a complete reinvention. We are talking about a car that has grown up—literally and figuratively. It’s bigger, bolder, and packed with enough tech to make a spaceship jealous.
For years, the Seltos has been the “bad boy” of the segment, offering sporty looks and punchy engines. But with rivals like the Hyundai Creta and the upcoming Tata Sierra sharpening their claws, Kia had to do something drastic. And boy, did they deliver. The 2026 model adopts a boxier, “Digital Tiger Face” that screams dominance. But does it drive as good as it looks? Let’s dive deep into what makes this machine special.
2026 Kia Seltos Specifications At A Glance
| Feature | Specification |
| Engine Options | 1.5L NA Petrol | 1.5L Turbo Petrol | 1.5L Diesel |
| Power Output | 115 PS (NA) | 160 PS (Turbo) | 116 PS (Diesel) |
| Torque | 144 Nm (NA) | 253 Nm (Turbo) | 250 Nm (Diesel) |
| Transmission | 6-MT, IVT (CVT), 7-DCT, 6-AT, iMT |
| Length | 4,460 mm (+95mm vs old model) |
| Width | 1,830 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,690 mm (+80mm vs old model) |
| Touchscreen | Dual 12.3-inch Panoramic Displays |
| Safety | ADAS Level 2 (21 features), 6 Airbags, 360° Camera |
| Expected Price | ₹11.20 Lakh – ₹22.00 Lakh (Ex-Showroom) |
A Design That Demands Attention
Gone are the curves of the past. Kia has embraced a “boxy is beautiful” philosophy for 2026. The front fascia is dominated by a massive, jagged grille that stretches across the face, flanked by vertically stacked “Star Map” LED DRLs. It looks aggressive, almost menacing in the rearview mirror.
One of the coolest additions? Flush door handles. Yes, the kind you usually see on luxury EVs like the Range Rover Velar. They pop out when you unlock the car and retract when you drive, giving the side profile a super clean, aerodynamic look. The rear hasn’t been ignored either; it features inverted L-shaped connected tail lamps that make the car look wider than it actually is.
Inside The Cockpit: Tech Overload
Step inside, and you might mistake the cabin for a luxury lounge. The dashboard is dominated by a “Trinity” display setup. This includes two massive 12.3-inch screens—one for the instrument cluster and one for infotainment—plus a dedicated 5-inch touch panel just for climate controls. It’s seamless, slick, and very responsive.
Comfort is king here. The wheelbase has been stretched by 80mm, which translates directly to more legroom for rear passengers. No more fighting for space on long road trips. The driver gets a special treat too: a 10-way power-adjustable seat with memory function and a “relaxation mode” that reclines fully for those power naps at rest stops.
Performance: Tried And Tested Engines
While the exterior is all-new, Kia has played it safe under the hood. The 2026 Seltos carries forward the trusty trio of engines we know and love.
For the city slickers, the 1.5L Naturally Aspirated Petrol is smooth and reliable. If you are a highway mile-muncher, the 1.5L Diesel remains the efficiency king. But if you are an enthusiast who loves to push the pedal to the metal, the 1.5L Turbo Petrol is the beast you want. With 160 PS on tap, it’s arguably the most fun-to-drive SUV in its class.
There were rumors of a hybrid powertrain, but sadly, it won’t be available at the January launch. We might see it later in the year, but for now, it’s pure internal combustion goodness.
Safety That Has Your Back
Kia hasn’t skimped on safety. The new Seltos comes with Level 2 ADAS with 21 autonomous features. This includes things like Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, and Automatic Emergency Braking.
It’s not just about the fancy electronics, though. The car feels sturdier. With standard 6 airbags, all-wheel disc brakes, and a 360-degree camera that eliminates blind spots, it’s built to keep your family safe on unpredictable roads.
Launch Date and Price Expectations
Mark your calendars for January 2, 2026. That is when Kia will officially announce the prices. However, looking at the massive upgrades, we expect a slight bump over the current model.
Base variants should start around ₹11.20 Lakh, making it accessible for budget buyers. The top-spec X-Line or GTX+ variants, loaded with all the tech, could touch the ₹22 Lakh mark. Bookings are already open, so if you want to be one of the first to own this beauty, you better hurry.
Summary
The 2026 Kia Seltos is a significant leap forward. It ditches the old curvy design for a bold, boxy stance and increases interior space significantly thanks to a longer wheelbase. While the engines remain the same, the addition of flush door handles, a triple-screen dashboard, and advanced ADAS makes it feel like a car from a segment above. It’s stylish, spacious, and safer than ever.