Kia has officially teased the 2026 Kia Seltos, confirming the SUV’s biggest update since its original launch. The second-generation model will make its global debut on December 10, 2025, and the teaser reveals a completely redesigned exterior, a premium cabin, more technology, and possibly a strong-hybrid powertrain for India.
The new Seltos looks bigger, sharper, and far more premium than the current model.
Table of Contents
Bold New Design: Boxy, Premium, and More SUV-Like
The 2026 Kia Seltos shifts away from the curvier design of the outgoing model and adopts a more muscular, upright silhouette inspired by the Telluride and EV9.
Key Exterior Highlights from the Teaser
- Wider, rectangular Digital Tiger Face grille
- Vertical LED DRLs reaching the edges
- Split C-shaped LED headlamps with animations
- New alloy wheels (expected up to 20 inches globally)
- Flush-fitting door handles
- Panoramic sunroof (bigger than current model)
- Full-width LED tail-light bar
- More squared-off, rugged proportions
The updated styling makes the Seltos look more mature and premium, aligning it with Kia’s global SUV lineup.
Interior Upgrade: More Screens, More Tech, More Luxury
Kia is preparing a major interior overhaul for the 2026 Seltos, with more digital controls, premium finishes, and advanced connectivity.
Expected Interior Features
- Dual 12.3-inch curved displays
- Ventilated front seats
- Dual-zone climate control
- 8-speaker Bose audio system
- Powered co-driver seat with “Boss Mode”
- Ventilated second-row seats (expected)
- Powered tailgate
- Updated Kia Connect software
The new cabin layout will offer a more premium feel, with better ergonomics and richer materials.
Safety First: Upgraded ADAS & Standard Features
The 2026 Kia Seltos is expected to raise the segment benchmark with enhanced safety and ADAS features.
ADAS Level 2 Expected
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Keep Assist
- Forward Collision Avoidance
- Lane Centering
- Blind Spot Monitoring
Standard Safety Kit
- Six airbags
- Electronic Stability Control
- 360° camera
- All-wheel disc brakes
- Electronic parking brake with auto-hold
Kia is clearly focusing on improving the safety appeal of the Seltos.
Powertrain Options: Familiar Engines Plus a Hybrid Surprise
India will likely get the same engine lineup as the current Seltos, with one major addition — a strong-hybrid variant.
Expected India Engine Options
| Engine | Power | Torque | Gearbox |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5 NA Petrol | 115 PS | 144 Nm | 6MT / CVT |
| 1.5 Turbo-Petrol | 160 PS | 253 Nm | 6MT / 7DCT |
| 1.5 Diesel | 116 PS | 250 Nm | 6MT / 6AT |
| Strong Hybrid (Expected) | TBA | TBA | Automatic |
If introduced, the hybrid Seltos will compete directly with the Toyota Hyryder and Maruti Grand Vitara.
Pricing & Launch Timeline
- Global Reveal: December 10, 2025
- India Launch: Early 2026 (likely January)
- Expected Price: ₹11.30 lakh – ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom)
Expected Rivals
- Hyundai Creta
- Tata Sierra
- Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
- Toyota Hyryder
- Honda Elevate
- VW Taigun
- Skoda Kushaq
- MG Astor
The 2026 Seltos clearly aims to reclaim the top spot with its upgraded design, features, and hybrid tech.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Kia Seltos appears ready to set a new standard in the compact SUV segment. With a stronger design, premium interior, more features, and a possible hybrid variant, it brings a major leap over today’s model.
So, what do you think — will the 2026 Seltos outperform rivals like the Creta and Grand Vitara? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
