Discover the Kia Seltos 2026—its larger size, bold design, upgraded interior and tech. Read our full review and see if it’s right for you!
Overview
The third‑generation Kia Seltos arrives in India with a clear mission: become one of the biggest and most refined B‑segment crossovers on the market. Built on Kia’s new K3 platform, the 2026 Seltos adds over 90 mm of length, a wider track and a longer wheelbase, nudging it closer to the C‑segment in presence and practicality.
Size and Design
Measuring 4,460 mm long, 1,830 mm wide and 1,635 mm tall with a 2,690 mm wheelbase, the Seltos 2026 feels substantially larger than its predecessor. The increased dimensions translate into a roomier cabin, a more commanding road stance and a higher ride height for better ground clearance.
Styling is more aggressive. A rectangular LED headlamp cluster, a vertical daytime running light strip and a sculpted front grille give the SUV a distinctive front‑end. Kia offers three exterior trims – Tech Line, GT Line and X Line – each with its own personality. The GT and X variants sport sportier wheel designs up to 18 inches and gloss‑black accents for an upscale feel.
Exterior Details
- Hidden automatic door handles that pop out when needed.
- Integrated rear‑window wiper and concealed rear‑washer nozzle.
- Hydraulic-powered front‑hood latch for smoother opening.
- LED welcome lighting that syncs with the front and rear lamp units.
Interior and Technology
Step inside and the jump in space is immediate. Kia introduces a new, seamless dashboard layout anchored by a 30‑inch “Trinity” display trio:
- 12.3‑inch infotainment screen with Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay.
- 12.3‑inch fully digital instrument cluster.
- 5‑inch touchscreen dedicated to climate‑control functions.
A Bose 8‑speaker sound system, wireless charging pad, and a centre console that houses an electronic parking brake, a rotary gear selector and a tidy cup‑holder slot round out the tech suite. Physical knobs remain for volume and AC, ensuring easy operation while driving.
Seating and Comfort
High‑quality soft‑touch materials line the dashboard and door panels, while the seats are upholstered in premium synthetic leather. Front occupants benefit from ventilated seats, a 10‑way power‑adjustable driver’s seat with memory, and auto‑dimming side mirrors that lower when reverse gear is selected.
The rear bench offers three individual headrests, dedicated AC vents, a USB‑C charging point and a sunshade for the windows. A panoramic roof floods the cabin with natural light, and the cargo area provides 447 litres of space with a flat load floor and a 60/40 split‑fold rear seat.
Powertrain Options
Kia continues to offer three 1.5‑litre engines for the 2026 Seltos:
- Naturally‑aspirated gasoline.
- Turbocharged gasoline – the most lively choice, compensating for the extra weight.
- Turbocharged diesel – tuned for smooth, fuel‑efficient cruising, though acceleration feels slightly subdued compared with the previous generation.
All variants feature a rear‑mount shift‑by‑wire lever, delivering crisp gear changes without a traditional clutch pedal.
Driving Dynamics
The revamped suspension, paired with Kia’s reinforced K3 chassis, handles rough road surfaces with confidence. It soaks up bumps, offers a comfortable ride, and maintains composure through corners despite a modest body roll. Braking is assured with four‑wheel disc brakes, and the chassis feels planted on highways.
Safety and Assistance
Standard safety equipment includes six airbags, ABS with EBD, and a rear‑view camera. Higher trims add a comprehensive driver‑assist package featuring:
- 360‑degree camera system.
- Blind‑spot monitoring.
- Lane‑keeping assist and autonomous emergency braking.
Verdict
The Kia Seltos 2026 marks a notable evolution for the model line. Its larger footprint, bold styling, premium‑grade interior and upgraded tech make it feel closer to a compact C‑segment SUV while retaining the affordability of a B‑segment vehicle. For buyers seeking a spacious, well‑equipped urban crossover, the new Seltos is a compelling choice.