New Kia Seltos: Kia has unveiled the all-new Seltos globally, and India has been chosen as the very first market to host its debut. The company will begin official bookings from midnight for a token amount of ₹25,000, while prices are scheduled to be announced on January 2, 2026. Deliveries are expected to start by mid-January.
Bigger Dimensions and New Global K3 Platform
The 2026 Seltos has grown significantly compared to the outgoing model.
Key dimensional upgrades include:
- 95 mm increase in length
- 20 mm wider body
- 15 mm taller stance
- 80 mm longer wheelbase
Thanks to the new global K3 platform, Kia has also expanded boot space by 14 litres. The SUV now aligns with Kia’s evolved design philosophy introduced for global markets.
Bold New Exterior with Completely Reworked Styling
The exterior has undergone a dramatic transformation. Instead of refining the previous design, Kia has crafted a fresh, more robust look inspired by larger SUVs like the Telluride.
Highlights of the New Exterior Design
- Chunkier, more upright front grille
- Taller bonnet with a straight, muscular front profile
- Redesigned C-shaped vertical DRLs
- Full-width rear LED light bar
- New bumper styling and sharper body surfacing
- Fresh 18-inch alloy wheels
- Dual-pane panoramic sunroof
- Sleek projector headlamps, LED fog lamps
- Hidden rear wiper and automatic flush door handles
These updates collectively give the Seltos a more premium and imposing road presence.
Modern, Upmarket Cabin with Curved 30-inch Display Panel
Inside, the Seltos adopts a fully redesigned layout with a single curved display panel, merging the infotainment screen and the digital instrument cluster into one seamless glass unit.
Cabin Enhancements
- Soft-touch materials and richer textures
- Refined stitch lines across the dashboard
- Updated AC control interface
- New flat-bottom steering wheel with toggles
- Improved storage spaces
- Two-tone GT Line interior with metal pedals
The interior theme draws inspiration from Kia’s EV6, bringing a more futuristic appeal.
Feature-Loaded with Advanced Technology
The SUV packs a long list of modern features, making it one of the most equipped models in its segment.
Key Features
- Welcome seat function
- Dual-zone climate control
- Ventilated front seats
- 10-way powered driver’s seat with lumbar & memory function
- Rear sunshades
- Panoramic sunroof
- 64-colour ambient lighting
- Wireless charging + Type-C ports in both rows
- 8-speaker Bose premium audio system
The variant lineup includes HTE, HTK, HTX, and GTX trims.
Comfort & Practicality in the Rear
Rear-seat occupants benefit from:
- Three adjustable headrests
- Reclining rear bench
- 60:40 split seat configuration
- 360-degree camera setup for easier maneuvering
Upgraded Safety With Level 2 ADAS
Safety has been enhanced with 24 standard features, including:
- Six airbags
- ESP (Electronic Stability Program)
- TCS (Traction Control System)
- ADAS Level 2 functions such as lane assist, autonomous braking, and adaptive cruise control
Additionally, the new Kia Connect 2.0 system supports 91 connected features, offering wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, smart-key proximity unlock, remote operations, and vehicle health diagnostics.
Familiar Powertrains Continue
Kia retains its popular engine lineup without major mechanical changes:
- 1.5-litre NA petrol – 115 PS, 144 Nm
- 1.5-litre turbo-petrol – 160 PS, 253 Nm
- 1.5-litre diesel – 116 PS, 250 Nm
Transmission options include manual, iMT, IVT, and automatic gearboxes. Global markets may additionally receive a 1.6-litre hybrid and all-wheel-drive variant.
Rivals in the Intensifying Mid-Size SUV Segment
With this major update, the new Kia Seltos is set to take on a strong lineup of competitors, including:
- Hyundai Creta
- Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara & Victors
- Tata Curvv & Sierra
- Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder
- Skoda Kushaq
- Volkswagen Taigun
- Honda Elevate
- Citroen C3 Aircross
With its larger platform, bold new design, premium features, and connected tech, the new Kia Seltos aims to strengthen its leadership in India’s mid-size SUV market. The official pricing announcement on January 2, 2026, is expected to define its position among rivals.
