New Kia Seltos SUV Launching On January 2, 2026: Expected Prices & Key Features

South Korean auto manufacturer Kia will launch the 2026 Kia Seltos compact SUV in India on January 2, 2026. The new-generation Seltos features an updated exterior design, revamped interiors, and several premium features. Pricing will be revealed during the launch event, and the Seltos is one of the best-selling compact SUVs in India. Here's what we know so far.

2026 Kia Seltos: What we know so far

Global Design Language

The new Kia Seltos adopts a global design language inspired largely by international models such as the Telluride SUV. It features a larger and wider tiger-nose grille, vertically positioned LED headlamps with new DRLs, and refreshed tail lamps connected by a light bar. Overall, the new Seltos looks bigger and more muscular than the existing model.

New Kia Seltos SUV

Same Engine & Transmissions

The upcoming new-generation Kia Seltos will retain the same three powertrains as the outgoing model. It will be powered by the same 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 113 bhp and 144 Nm of torque, a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine delivering 158 bhp and 253 Nm of torque, and a 1.5-litre diesel engine generating 118 bhp and 260 Nm of torque.

A 6-speed manual transmission will be standard across all powertrains. A CVT gearbox will be offered with the 1.5-litre NA petrol engine, while the turbo petrol will get the 6-speed iMT and 7-speed DCT transmissions. The diesel variant will offer a 6-speed automatic transmission in addition to the manual gearbox.

New Kia Seltos SUV

More Advanced Features

Kia cars are known for their technology and exclusive features. This new model will offer automatic climate control, an 8-speaker Bose audio system, a panoramic sunroof, a HUD display, customizable 64-colour ambient lighting, connected car technology, rear seat recline function, dual panoramic glass roof, ventilated front seats, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Premium Level Safety

The 2026 Seltos SUV will be equipped with Level 2 ADAS with 21 autonomous safety features. It will offer six airbags as standard, a 360-degree camera with Blind View Monitor, front and rear parking sensors, TPMS, ABS, all-wheel disc brakes, ESC, BAS, VSM, HAC, a rollover sensor, and a rear-view camera with dynamic guidelines.

New Kia Seltos SUV

Pricing Expectations

The compact SUV category is one of the most competitive segments in the Indian car market, with models such as the segment leader Hyundai Creta, Maruti Suzuki Victoris, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, MG Hector, and Tata Harrier.

So, the pricing needs to be competitive and aggressive to gain market share. Considering the newly added features, we expect Kia to price the 2026 Seltos somewhere around 12 lakh (ex-showroom).

Article Published On: Thursday, January 1, 2026, 10:44 [IST]
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