New Kia Seltos 2026: Full Indian Buyers Guide
The second-generation Kia Seltos 2026 has been globally unveiled in India and will go on sale here from 2 January 2026. Kia has kept the strong engine line-up of the current Seltos but has completely reworked the exterior, interior and safety tech to stay ahead in the hot compact-SUV segment.
Launch date, variants and booking details
Kia has confirmed that prices for the New Seltos 2026 will be announced on 2 January 2026, with deliveries starting from mid-January. Bookings have already opened on 11 December 2025 through Kia dealerships and the brand’s online platform.
The SUV will be offered in multiple trim lines like HTE, HTK, HTX and GTX, along with sportier top variants and dual-tone colour options to attract different types of buyers. This wide variant spread helps Kia position the Seltos directly against rivals ranging from entry compact SUVs to premium feature-rich models.
Design changes – now bigger and bolder
The 2026 Seltos grows in road presence with a more muscular front fascia, updated LED lighting signature and a sharper grille design compared to the outgoing model. The side and rear get reprofiled body panels, new alloy wheel designs and connected tail lamps, making the SUV look more premium and modern.
While overall dimensions remain close to the current Seltos (around 4.36 m long with a wheelbase of 2610 mm), the new design improves stance and cabin space perception. Ground clearance of about 190 mm and a 433-litre boot continue to make it practical for Indian roads and family trips.
Engine options and performance
Kia continues with its proven 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol, 1.5-litre turbo-petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engine options for the new Seltos 2026 in India. Depending on variant, these are paired with manual, iMT, torque converter automatic, CVT or 7-speed DCT gearboxes to cover both city and highway-oriented buyers.
The turbo-petrol delivers punchy performance of around 160 PS, while the diesel remains the choice for high-mileage users due to its strong torque and efficiency. Front-wheel drive with traction-enhancing drive modes continues, and in some global markets the Seltos 2026 also offers all-wheel drive for extra grip.
Interior, space and comfort
Inside, the New Kia Seltos 2026 adopts a more premium cabin with a connected dual-screen layout, soft-touch materials and redesigned dashboard and centre console. Higher variants offer features like dual-zone climate control, ambient lighting, ventilated front seats and a premium Bose sound system.
The 2610 mm wheelbase, high roofline and wide body help provide good legroom and headroom for five occupants, with rear AC vents and multiple USB charging points improving comfort for family use. Large windows and a panoramic sunroof on top trims further add to the airy feel inside the cabin.
Key features: tech and convenience
Kia packs the Seltos 2026 with a long list of connected and convenience technologies aimed at young and tech-savvy buyers. The SUV gets a large touchscreen with connected car features, wireless smartphone connectivity, digital driver display, heads-up display and multiple drive and traction modes.
Other highlights include keyless entry with push-button start, automatic headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, 360-degree camera and an electronic parking brake with auto-hold on automatic variants. These features make daily driving and parking in tight urban spaces much easier and safer.
Safety: Level-2 ADAS and strong basics
One of the biggest upgrades on the New Kia Seltos 2026 is the addition of Level-2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems. This suite brings features like lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control and navigation-based smart cruise control, helping reduce driver fatigue and enhancing highway safety.
Standard safety equipment across variants includes six airbags, electronic stability control, ABS with EBD, all-wheel disc brakes, hill-start assist and parking sensors on all sides. The SUV is built on a robust platform with a high proportion of ultra-high-strength steel and is engineered to target strong crash-test ratings from Global NCAP and Bharat NCAP.
Expected price and rivals
Current-generation Seltos prices start at around ₹10.8–11.2 lakh ex-showroom, and the New Seltos 2026 is expected to command a small premium depending on variant and GST changes. The wider feature list and added ADAS tech justify the likely increase while still keeping it competitive for the segment.
In India, the Seltos 2026 will compete with SUVs like Hyundai Creta, Tata Curvv, Tata Sierra, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and others in the C-segment space. Buyers now get one of the most feature-rich and safety-loaded packages in this crowded segment, especially in the higher trims.
Simple comparison table for buyers
| Point | New Kia Seltos 2026 | Current Seltos / Rivals |
|---|---|---|
| Safety tech | Level-2 ADAS, six airbags, ESC, all-disc brakes | Mostly basic ADAS or none, six airbags on higher trims |
| Interior & screens | Dual connected screens, HUD, Bose, ambient light | Single screen or smaller cluster, fewer premium touches |
| Engines | 1.5 NA petrol, 1.5 turbo-petrol, 1.5 diesel | Similar engine mix; some rivals lack diesel options |
| Launch timeline | India launch 2 January 2026 | Existing models already on sale |
Should you wait for the New Kia Seltos 2026?
If you are planning to buy a compact or mid-size SUV in early 2026, waiting for the New Kia Seltos makes sense because you get updated looks, a modern interior and Level-2 ADAS at launch. Existing Seltos owners who value advanced safety and tech may also consider upgrading, especially from pre-facelift models with fewer features.
For buyers on a tighter budget, the current Seltos and competitor models might offer discounts as the new model arrives, so it is worth comparing on-road deals before booking. Test-driving both the new Seltos and its key rivals will help you decide which SUV best matches your priorities for comfort, performance and safety.
Final tips for buyers in India
- Shortlist variants based on must-have features like sunroof, ADAS, automatic gearbox and ventilated seats so you do not overpay for features you will not use.
- Check waiting periods, extended warranty options and service network in your city because ownership experience is as important as the spec sheet.
- When the New Seltos 2026 reaches showrooms, take a detailed test drive on both city roads and highways to evaluate comfort, visibility, braking and ADAS behaviour.
Related links: Kia India Official | CarDekho Seltos Specs
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the launch date of New Kia Seltos 2026 in India?
A: Official launch is 2 January 2026 with prices announced same day.
Q: Does Kia Seltos 2026 have Level-2 ADAS?
A: Yes, it includes adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist and more in higher variants.
Q: What are the engine options in Seltos 2026?
A: 1.5L petrol, 1.5L turbo-petrol and 1.5L diesel with manual, iMT, CVT and DCT options.
Q: What is the expected price of New Seltos 2026?
A: Starting around ₹11-12 lakh ex-showroom, premium of ₹20-50k over current model.
Updated: 11 December 2025 | New Kia Seltos 2026 Launch India | Kia Seltos Facelift Features Price Specs
