The Kia Seltos, one of India’s most popular mid-size SUVs, is ready for its biggest update yet. The 2026 Kia Seltos will make its global debut tomorrow — December 10, 2025 — with an all-new design philosophy, upgraded interiors, advanced safety tech, and a possible strong-hybrid powertrain.
Here are the top five highlights you should know before the official unveiling.
Table of Contents
1. Bold New Exterior With an Upright, SUV-Inspired Design
Kia has given the next-gen Seltos a major design evolution. The SUV now follows the brand’s Opposites United theme, resulting in a more boxy, upright, and muscular stance — similar to global Kia SUVs like the Telluride.
Key Exterior Changes
- Wider, sharper Tiger Face grille
- Split LED headlamps with vertically stacked DRLs
- Star Map LED signature lighting
- Connected C-shaped LED taillights with a full-width light bar
- Flush door handles, a premium addition to the segment
- DRL welcome-light animation
With stronger proportions and heavier body cladding, the 2026 Seltos looks more rugged and premium than ever.
2. Dual 12.3-inch Curved Screens for a Full Digital Cabin
The interior sees the most dramatic transformation so far.
Interior Highlights
- Twin 12.3-inch curved displays (cluster + infotainment)
- Redesigned multi-layer dashboard
- Slim integrated AC vents
- Updated climate control switchgear
- Upgraded materials and soft-touch surfaces
- Ambient lighting across the cabin
This modern cockpit layout brings the Seltos closer to Kia’s global models in terms of luxury and digital sophistication.
3. Level 2 ADAS and a Panoramic Sunroof Confirmed
Kia is positioning the new Seltos as a premium, feature-loaded SUV.
Expected Feature Upgrades
- Level 2 ADAS with lane keep assist, adaptive cruise, and AEB
- Panoramic sunroof (upgrade from current single-pane)
- Ventilated front seats
- Ventilated rear seats (expected)
- Powered co-driver seat with Boss Mode
- Powered tailgate
- Electronic parking brake with Auto Hold
- 360-degree camera with ESC and multiple airbags
These additions ensure the new Seltos stands strong against modern rivals.
4. Strong-Hybrid Powertrain Likely to Join the Lineup
The current engines are expected to continue, but the biggest mechanical highlight is the likely introduction of a strong-hybrid powertrain.
Expected Engine Options
- 1.5L NA Petrol (115 PS / 144 Nm) – MT, CVT
- 1.5L Turbo-Petrol (160 PS / 253 Nm) – MT, DCT
- 1.5L Diesel (116 PS / 250 Nm) – MT, AT
- New Strong-Hybrid (Expected)
If introduced, the hybrid Seltos will compete directly with the Maruti Grand Vitara and Toyota Hyryder hybrid models.
5. Expected Price and Key Rivals
The next-gen Seltos is expected to be priced between:
₹11.30 lakh – ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom)
Main Competitors
- Hyundai Creta
- Maruti Grand Vitara
- Maruti Victoris
- Toyota Hyryder
- Honda Elevate
- Skoda Kushaq
- VW Taigun
- Tata Sierra
- Nissan Tekton (upcoming)
With fresh styling, dual curved screens, ADAS, and a potential hybrid option, the 2026 Seltos is preparing for a strong return in the mid-size SUV space.
Final Thoughts
The next-gen Kia Seltos looks set to push the segment forward with its bold design, premium cabin experience, advanced safety tech, and expanded powertrain options.
So, what do you think — will the new 2026 Kia Seltos set a new benchmark in the mid-size SUV segment? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
