The wait is finally over for SUV lovers in India. Kia has officially launched the new 2026 Kia Seltos in India, and it is much more than just a simple facelift. With a bigger body, a brand-new interior, and advanced technology, Kia aims to reclaim the top spot in the mid-size SUV segment.

If you are planning to buy a new car this year, here is everything you need to know about the 2026 Kia Seltos, including its price, new features, and how it compares to the Hyundai Creta and Maruti Grand Vitara.

2026 Kia Seltos: Price in India

Kia has launched the new Seltos at a very aggressive starting price. The base model starts at ₹10.99 lakh, while the top-end variant goes up to ₹19.99 lakh (ex-showroom).

Despite the major upgrades, Kia has kept the pricing competitive. Here is the variant-wise price range:

• Base (HTE): ₹10.99 Lakh
• Mid-Range (HTK/HTK+): ₹13.09 Lakh – ₹15.49 Lakh
• Top-End (GTX/X-Line): ₹18.39 Lakh – ₹19.99 Lakh

Bookings are already open for a token amount of ₹25,000, and deliveries have started reaching customers across India as of mid-January 2026.

Bigger and Bolder Design

The biggest change in the 2026 model is its size. The new Seltos is built on the K3 platform, making it significantly larger than the previous version.

• Length: It is now 95mm longer, giving it a massive road presence.
• Wheelbase: The wheelbase has increased by 80mm, which means much more legroom for rear passengers.
• Exterior Looks: It features a new “Digital Tiger Face” grille, vertical LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), and a connected tail lamp at the back.
• Flush Door Handles: A segment-first feature, the door handles pop out automatically, giving the car a luxury feel similar to the Range Rover Velar or Mahindra XUV700.

Interior & New Features

Kia is known for loading its cars with tech, and the 2026 Seltos is no different. The cabin feels premium with a new dual-tone Black and White theme.

Read More: Skoda Kushaq Facelift

Top Features Include:

• Triple Screen Setup: A massive dashboard layout featuring two 12.3-inch screens (one for the driver, one for infotainment) and a dedicated 5-inch screen for climate control.
• Panoramic Sunroof: A large dual-pane sunroof that opens up the cabin.
• Ventilated Seats: Available for front passengers to beat the Indian summer heat.
• Level 2 ADAS: The car comes with 21 safety features, including Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Control.
• 360-Degree Camera: High-definition cameras to help parking in tight spots.

Engine and Performance

Under the hood, Kia has retained the reliable engine options from the outgoing model. It does not get a hybrid engine yet, which might disappoint some buyers looking for high mileage.

You can choose from three engine options:

1. 1.5L NA Petrol: Good for city driving (115 PS Power). Available with Manual and IVT (Automatic) gearbox.
2. 1.5L Turbo Petrol: For performance lovers (160 PS Power). Comes with iMT and 7-speed DCT.
3. 1.5L Diesel: The best choice for highway runners (116 PS Power). Available with Manual and Automatic transmission.

Missing Feature: No Hybrid Yet?

Many buyers were expecting a strong Hybrid engine (like the Grand Vitara or Hyryder) to improve fuel efficiency. However, Kia has confirmed that the Seltos Hybrid will likely launch in 2027. For now, if your priority is pure mileage (25+ kmpl), you might still look at Maruti or Toyota alternatives.

Comparison: Seltos vs. Rivals

The 2026 Kia Seltos competes directly with the Hyundai Creta, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, and Honda Elevate.

With its increased size, the Seltos is now one of the most spacious cars in this list. While the Grand Vitara wins on mileage, the Seltos wins on power, features, and premium appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)