The Kia Seltos has been one of India’s best-selling compact SUVs since its debut in 2019. Known for its stylish design, premium interiors, and powerful engine options, it quickly became a favorite among urban buyers. Now, Kia is gearing up to take things a step further with the Kia Seltos 2026 New Variant (Facelift) — a more advanced, safer, and tech-loaded version of this popular SUV.
Expected to launch by early 2026, this updated model will introduce ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), refined turbo engine options, and fresh design updates while keeping the same winning DNA that made the Seltos such a success.
With an expected starting price of ₹12.5 lakh (ex-showroom), the 2026 Seltos facelift aims to once again set benchmarks in the compact SUV segment. Let’s dive deep into its features, performance, design, and what makes this new variant worth the wait.
🚗 1. Kia’s Evolution with the Seltos: A Quick Recap
Since its introduction, the Seltos has been Kia’s flagship model in India, combining aggressive styling, feature-loaded interiors, and multiple engine choices. It created a perfect balance between performance and practicality, and the recent 2023 facelift only strengthened its position with premium features like a panoramic sunroof, 10.25-inch displays, and new safety equipment.
The 2026 New Variant builds upon that foundation, offering more advanced technology, a bolder design refresh, and improved efficiency. Kia aims to keep the Seltos fresh against rising competition from models like the Hyundai Creta 2025, Maruti Grand Vitara, and Tata Curvv.
🧭 2. Exterior Design — Refined Yet Sporty
The Kia Seltos 2026 Facelift is expected to feature design upgrades inspired by Kia’s global design language, “Opposites United.” The styling will balance sophistication with sportiness, ensuring it looks distinct and modern on Indian roads.
Expected Exterior Highlights:
- Revised front fascia with a wider signature Tiger Nose grille.
- Full-width LED DRL strip integrated into the grille, adding futuristic appeal.
- Reprofiled headlamps and bumper design for a sharper, more muscular look.
- New dual-tone alloy wheels (17- or 18-inch options) with machine-cut finish.
- Updated rear design featuring a connected LED tail-light bar.
- Gloss black body cladding and skid plates for a rugged touch.
- Panoramic sunroof carried forward from the previous model.
Overall, the Seltos 2026 looks more premium and dynamic, with subtle styling cues giving it a fresh and bold presence.
🏠 3. Interior and Cabin Experience — Modern, Connected, and Premium
Kia is known for its class-leading interiors, and the new Seltos will continue to offer a rich cabin experience filled with comfort, convenience, and technology.
Interior Highlights:
- Dual 10.25-inch connected displays (infotainment + digital cluster).
- Soft-touch dashboard with new leatherette trims and contrast stitching.
- Ambient lighting with 64 customizable colors.
- Ventilated and powered front seats.
- Wireless phone charger and Type-C charging ports.
- Dual-zone automatic climate control with rear AC vents.
- BOSE 8-speaker premium sound system.
- Electric parking brake with auto-hold.
- Panoramic sunroof (standard in mid and top variants).
The dashboard layout and center console may also be revised for better ergonomics. Kia might introduce new upholstery options — possibly in tan and black combinations — to emphasize luxury.
⚙️ 4. Engine and Performance — Refined Power Meets Efficiency
The 2026 Seltos will likely carry forward the current powertrain lineup with subtle enhancements for improved performance and compliance with new emission standards. The highlight will be the 1.5L turbo-petrol engine, which delivers both power and efficiency.
Expected Engine Options:
- 1.5L Petrol Engine:
- Power: ~115 bhp
- Torque: ~144 Nm
- Gearbox: 6-speed manual / CVT (iVT)
- 1.5L Turbo-Petrol Engine (new-gen):
- Power: ~160 bhp
- Torque: ~253 Nm
- Gearbox: 6-speed iMT / 7-speed DCT
- Refined tuning for better throttle response.
- 1.5L Diesel Engine:
- Power: ~116 bhp
- Torque: ~250 Nm
- Gearbox: 6-speed manual / 6-speed torque converter automatic
These engines have already proven themselves in the Indian market. The turbo-petrol unit, in particular, delivers sporty performance and smooth DCT shifts, perfect for highway runs. Expect minor software tweaks and improved NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) levels in this facelift.
⛽ 5. Mileage and Efficiency
Kia is expected to fine-tune its engines for higher fuel efficiency and lower emissions, using lightweight materials and smarter aerodynamics.
Expected Mileage (ARAI Figures):
- 1.5 Petrol: 17–18 km/l
- 1.5 Turbo Petrol (DCT): 18–19 km/l
- 1.5 Diesel: 21–22 km/l
While EV and hybrid rivals may dominate the headlines, these numbers make the Seltos highly practical for daily use, ensuring low running costs without sacrificing performance.
🧠 6. ADAS & Safety — Smarter and Safer Than Ever
One of the biggest highlights of the Kia Seltos 2026 New Variant will be the introduction of ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) across more variants.
Expected Safety and ADAS Features:
- ADAS Level 2 features, including:
- Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
- Lane Keep Assist (LKA)
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
- Blind Spot Detection (BSD)
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA)
- Driver Attention Warning (DAW)
- 6 airbags standard across all trims.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Hill Start Assist (HSA).
- 360° Surround Camera with Parking Sensors.
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
- High-strength body structure using advanced steel.
Kia is also expected to aim for a 5-star Global NCAP safety rating, building on its commitment to offering safe cars for Indian buyers.
💡 7. Technology and Connectivity
The Kia Seltos 2026 will continue to set the benchmark in connected car technology.
Tech Highlights:
- Kia Connect (UVO 2.0) with 60+ smart features.
- OTA (Over-The-Air) updates for system and map enhancements.
- Smartphone connectivity for remote engine start/stop, AC control, and live tracking.
- Voice commands for navigation, sunroof, and media control.
- Digital key feature allowing smartphone-based key access.
- Heads-Up Display (HUD) for speed and safety alerts.
Kia is also expected to improve its infotainment UI/UX for smoother performance and better integration with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
🛣️ 8. Ride and Handling — Tuned for Indian Roads
The Seltos is already appreciated for its well-balanced suspension setup, and the 2026 facelift will further refine the driving experience.
Driving Dynamics:
- Improved suspension tuning for better ride comfort.
- Retuned steering system for improved feedback and cornering control.
- Multi-drive modes (Eco, Normal, Sport) for flexible performance.
- Enhanced noise insulation to improve cabin quietness.
Kia may also slightly increase ground clearance to handle rougher Indian road conditions while maintaining agility and ride quality.
💰 9. Price and EMI Details
The Kia Seltos 2026 New Variant will be priced competitively to retain its strong market position while offering premium upgrades.
Expected Price (Ex-Showroom, India):
- Base Variant (1.5 Petrol Manual): ₹12.5 lakh
- Mid Variant (Turbo Petrol iMT / Diesel MT): ₹14.5–₹16 lakh
- Top Variant (DCT / Diesel Auto with ADAS): ₹18–₹19 lakh
EMI Estimate:
For a ₹12.5 lakh car loan with 9% interest for 5 years, the EMI would be around ₹22,000 per month (approx.).
This makes the Seltos an attractive option for buyers seeking premium SUV experience within a reasonable monthly budget.
📅 10. Launch Timeline and Availability
The Kia Seltos 2026 New Variant is expected to debut globally by late 2025, followed by an India launch in early 2026. Production will continue at Kia’s Anantapur plant in Andhra Pradesh, which currently manufactures the Seltos for both domestic and export markets.
Bookings are likely to open a few weeks before launch, with deliveries beginning soon after. Kia will position the 2026 facelift as a premium upgrade, targeting both first-time SUV buyers and those upgrading from compact crossovers.
⚔️ 11. Key Rivals
When launched, the Kia Seltos 2026 will face stiff competition from a mix of petrol, diesel, and hybrid SUVs.
Main Rivals:
- Hyundai Creta 2025 Facelift
- Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
- Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder
- Honda Elevate
- Tata Curvv ICE (upcoming)
- MG Astor
With its powerful turbo engine, advanced ADAS suite, and feature-rich interiors, the Seltos will remain one of the most well-rounded choices in this segment.
🌟 12. Why the Kia Seltos 2026 Is Worth Waiting For
Here’s why the upcoming Seltos stands out:
✅ Fresh design with more aggressive styling and LED elements.
✅ Turbo-petrol powertrain with strong performance and efficiency.
✅ ADAS Level 2 safety tech — a segment-leading move.
✅ Premium interiors with dual screens and connected features.
✅ Excellent pricing starting at ₹12.5 lakh.
✅ Balanced ride and Kia reliability.
It’s a combination of technology, safety, and style, designed to appeal to both young professionals and family buyers alike.
Conclusion
The Kia Seltos 2026 New Variant is more than just a facelift — it represents Kia’s next leap in India’s SUV market. With a refreshed design, advanced ADAS features, 1.5L turbo-petrol engine, and a starting price of ₹12.5 lakh, the Seltos continues to deliver on its promise of offering premium luxury at an attainable price point.
This update will further strengthen the Seltos as a segment benchmark for technology, safety, and design — reaffirming Kia’s position as a leader in India’s compact SUV space.
If you’re planning to buy an SUV in 2026 that combines power, performance, and personality, the Kia Seltos 2026 New Variant might just be the perfect choice. 🚘✨