Kia Seltos 2026

Buying a new car in India is a big decision, isn't it? You think about your budget, how safe the car is for your family, the monthly maintenance costs, and of course, all the latest features. Not to forget, how good the company service is. Finding a vehicle that ticks all these boxes can be tricky, but today, we are going to dive deep into one car that aims to do just that – the new Kia Seltos 2026. Get ready, because the Seltos has always been a game-changer in the compact SUV segment, and the 2026 model promises to continue that legacy with even more flair, technology, and safety.

Engine Specifications

The Kia Seltos 2026 keeps its promise of offering something for everyone when it comes to powertrains. You get a range of refined engines designed for both performance and fuel efficiency.

• 1.5-litre Smartstream naturally aspirated petrol engine: Perfect for city drives and relaxed cruising, delivering smooth power.
• 1.5-litre Smartstream turbo petrol engine: For those who crave excitement, this engine offers a punchy performance with quick acceleration.
• 1.5-litre CRDi VGT diesel engine: Known for its robust torque and excellent fuel economy, ideal for long highway journeys.

Design Overview

The Seltos has always been a head-turner, and the 2026 model takes that up a notch with a design that's both muscular and elegant.

Exterior

• Sharp, futuristic LED headlamps and DRLs that extend into the grille.
• A bolder, more imposing signature 'Tiger Nose' grille design.
• Sporty front and rear bumpers with skid plates for an aggressive stance.
• Stylish alloy wheel designs, ranging from 17 to 18 inches, adding to its premium appeal.
• Connected LED taillights that give it a distinct signature, especially at night.

Interior

• A premium and spacious cabin with high-quality materials and soft-touch surfaces.
• Ergonomically designed dashboard focused on driver convenience.
• Dual-screen setup for infotainment and instrument cluster, creating a modern cockpit feel.
• Ventilated front seats (top variants) for ultimate comfort in India's climate.
• Ambient lighting to set the mood for every drive.

Key Features

The Kia Seltos 2026 is packed with technology and comfort features, making every drive enjoyable.

• Large Infotainment Screen: A stunning 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with crisp graphics.
• Kia Connect: Advanced connected car technology for remote operations, live tracking, and more.
• Panoramic Sunroof: Opens up the cabin, offering a bright and airy feel.
• 360-degree Camera: Makes parking and navigating tight spots incredibly easy.
• Wireless Phone Charging: Convenient charging for your compatible devices.
• Automatic Climate Control: Ensures optimal cabin temperature with minimal fuss.
• Head-Up Display: Projects vital information directly onto the windshield, keeping your eyes on the road.
• Power Adjustable Driver's Seat: For finding your perfect driving position.
• Bose Premium Sound System: Delivers an immersive audio experience.

Ground Clearance of Kia Seltos 2026

The Kia Seltos 2026 offers a very practical 190 mm of ground clearance. This is excellent for Indian roads, allowing you to confidently tackle speed breakers, potholes, and uneven terrain without worrying about scraping the underbody.

Boot Space of Kia Seltos 2026

With a generous 433 litres of boot space, the Seltos 2026 provides ample room for your luggage. Whether it's a weekend getaway or your weekly grocery run, you will find enough space to fit everything comfortably.

Dimensions of Kia Seltos 2026

The Seltos 2026 strikes a perfect balance between a commanding road presence and city maneuverability.

• Length: 4365 mm
• Width: 1800 mm
• Height: 1645 mm
• Wheelbase: 2610 mm

Powertrain Options

Beyond the engine choices, the Seltos 2026 offers a variety of transmission options to suit different driving preferences.

• 6-speed manual transmission (MT)
• IVT (Intelligent Variable Transmission) for the 1.5L NA petrol
• 7-speed DCT (Dual-Clutch Transmission) for the 1.5L turbo petrol
• 6-speed automatic transmission (AT) for the 1.5L diesel

Safety Features

Safety is paramount for Kia, and the Seltos 2026 comes loaded with advanced safety tech to protect you and your loved ones.

• Standard 6 airbags
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
• Hill-start Assist Control (HAC)
• Vehicle Stability Management (VSM)
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• All-wheel disc brakes
• ADAS Level 2: Advanced Driver Assistance Systems including features like Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keep Assist, Blind-spot Collision Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning, and Smart Cruise Control.

NCAP Rating Table

The Kia Seltos has significantly improved its safety credentials, offering peace of mind.

Rating Agency	Adult Occupant Protection	Child Occupant Protection
Bharat NCAP (2023 Model)	5 Stars	5 Stars
Global NCAP (Previous Gen)	3 Stars	3 Stars

Note: The 2026 model is expected to carry forward or improve upon the impressive 5-star Bharat NCAP rating achieved by the 2023 facelift model.

Rivals of Kia Seltos 2026

The Kia Seltos 2026 operates in a highly competitive segment. Its main rivals include:

• Hyundai Creta
• Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
• Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder
• Skoda Kushaq
• Volkswagen Taigun
• MG Astor

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Let's weigh the good against the not-so-good to help you make an informed choice for your next car purchase.

Pros

• Stunning Design: A true head-turner with a modern and aggressive look.
• Feature-Rich Cabin: Loaded with segment-leading technology and convenience features.
• Multiple Powertrain Options: Something for every driving style, from efficient to sporty.
• High Safety Rating: A solid 5-star Bharat NCAP rating provides immense confidence.
• Premium Interior Quality: Feels a segment above with excellent fit and finish.
• Strong Brand Value & Service: Kia has built a reputation for reliable service and an extensive network.

Cons

• Rear Seat Space: While adequate, it might feel a bit snug for three adults on longer journeys compared to some rivals.
• Ride Quality: Can be on the firmer side, especially at low speeds over broken roads.
• Top Variant Pricing: The fully loaded variants can be quite expensive, pushing it into a higher segment's territory.
• Fuel Economy (Turbo Petrol): While powerful, the turbo petrol can be a bit thirsty if driven enthusiastically.

Conclusion

The Kia Seltos 2026 stands out as a formidable contender in the compact SUV space. It perfectly blends eye-catching design, a feature-packed interior, diverse powertrain options, and now, a robust 5-star safety rating. While it has a few minor drawbacks like a slightly firm ride or premium pricing for top models, its overall package is incredibly compelling. If you are looking for an SUV that offers style, substance, and peace of mind, the Kia Seltos 2026 should definitely be high on your test drive list. It's not just a car; it's a statement, and a very practical one at that, designed for the modern Indian family. Go ahead, experience the future of driving with the Seltos!