Kia Seltos HTE Opt

Namaste car enthusiasts. Buying a new car in India is a big decision, is not it? We all want the perfect blend of style, safety, and performance without breaking the bank. Things like your budget, passenger safety, monthly maintenance costs, the latest features, and reliable company service play a huge role. Today, we are taking a close look at a car that promises to tick many of these boxes: the new Kia Seltos 2026 HTE Opt. Kia has truly made a mark in India, and the Seltos has been a segment leader. Let us see what this updated compact SUV brings to the table for prospective car buyers.

Main Highlights of Kia Seltos 2026 HTE Opt

Engine Specifications

The Kia Seltos 2026 HTE Opt continues to offer a range of refined engines known for their performance and efficiency. For the HTE Opt variant, you can expect power-packed options.

• 1.5L Smartstream Petrol Engine
  • Power: Around 115 PS
  • Torque: Around 144 Nm
  • Transmission: 6-speed Manual or IVT (Intelligent Variable Transmission)
  • Fuel Efficiency: Excellent for city and highway drives
• 1.5L CRDi Diesel Engine (Available in select trims and markets)
  • Power: Around 116 PS
  • Torque: Around 250 Nm
  • Transmission: 6-speed Manual
  • Fuel Efficiency: Top-tier for long journeys

Design Overview

The new Seltos maintains its bold and futuristic appeal, evolving further for 2026.

• Exterior Design
  • Sharp, aggressive front grille with Kia signature Star-Map LED DRLs
  • Redesigned bumper and sleek LED headlamps for a modern look
  • Sporty alloy wheels and body cladding enhancing its SUV stance
  • Integrated roof rails and a muscular bonnet giving it a commanding road presence
  • Crystal-cut LED tail lamps connected by a sleek light bar
• Interior Design
  • Premium and spacious cabin with high-quality materials
  • Dual-tone interior theme creating an airy feel
  • Ergonomically designed dashboard with easy-to-reach controls
  • Comfortable seating for five adults with ample legroom and headroom
  • Flat-bottom steering wheel for a sporty touch

Key Features

Even the HTE Opt variant of the Kia Seltos 2026 comes loaded with features to enhance your driving experience and comfort.

• Infotainment Screen Size: 10.25-inch HD Touchscreen Infotainment system
• Connectivity: Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Sunroof: Single-pane electric sunroof (a highly sought-after feature in India)
• Wireless Charging: Yes, for compatible smartphones
• Climate Control: Fully Automatic Temperature Control
• Rear AC Vents: Yes, for passenger comfort
• Rear Camera with Parking Sensors: For easy maneuvering
• Push Button Start Stop with Smart Key
• LED DRLs and Tail Lamps
• Cruise Control

Ground Clearance

The Kia Seltos 2026 HTE Opt offers a generous ground clearance of 190 mm, making it well-suited for varied Indian road conditions and mild off-roading.

Boot Space

With a practical boot space of 433 Litres, the Seltos HTE Opt can easily accommodate luggage for weekend getaways or regular shopping trips.

Dimensions

Here are the key dimensions of the new Seltos:

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

Powertrain Options

The Kia Seltos 2026 HTE Opt primarily comes with the efficient 1.5L Smartstream Petrol engine paired with either a 6-speed manual or IVT. The 1.5L CRDi Diesel with a 6-speed manual is available for those prioritizing maximum fuel efficiency and torque, making it a versatile compact SUV India can rely on.

Safety Features

Kia has made safety a priority in the 2026 Seltos HTE Opt, offering a strong suite of features:

• 6 Airbags (Front, Side, Curtain) as standard
• Anti-lock Braking System ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution EBD
• Electronic Stability Control ESC
• Vehicle Stability Management VSM
• Hill-start Assist Control HAC
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System TPMS
• All-wheel disc brakes
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts

NCAP Rating Table

Safety ratings are crucial for any family car. The Kia Seltos 2026 has been engineered to meet stringent safety standards.

Rating Body	Adult Occupant Protection	Child Occupant Protection
Bharat NCAP	5 Stars	5 Stars
Global NCAP	4 Stars	4 Stars

Rivals of Kia Seltos 2026 HTE Opt

The Kia Seltos competes in a hotly contested 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 and Cons

Pros of Kia Seltos 2026 HTE Opt

• Striking Design: Continues to be one of the best-looking SUVs in its class.
• Feature-Rich: Even the HTE Opt offers a good array of modern tech and comfort features.
• Multiple Powertrain Options: Cater to different driving preferences and fuel efficiency needs.
• High Safety Standards: Excellent NCAP ratings provide peace of mind for families.
• Premium Interior: The cabin feels upmarket and comfortable for all occupants.
• Good Ground Clearance: Handles Indian roads with ease.
• Kia Service Network: Growing presence and reliable after-sales support.

Cons of Kia Seltos 2026 HTE Opt

• Rear Seat Width: While spacious, it can feel a bit snug for three adults on very long journeys.
• Firm Ride at Low Speeds: Suspension can feel a bit firm over sharp bumps, though it improves at speed.
• No 360-Degree Camera in HTE Opt: This advanced feature is reserved for higher trims.
• Price Point: Can be slightly on the higher side compared to some rivals, but justified by features.

Conclusion

The Kia Seltos 2026 HTE Opt emerges as a highly compelling package for anyone looking for a modern, safe, and feature-packed compact SUV India. It balances aspirational design with practical utility, backed by robust engines and a strong commitment to safety. Whether you prioritize style, technology, or peace of mind, the new Seltos HTE Opt offers a well-rounded experience. It is a car that certainly deserves a spot on your test drive list. For its combination of premium feel, advanced features, and strong safety, the Seltos HTE Opt truly stands out as a smart choice in the competitive SUV market.