The highly successful Kia Seltos is getting a new generation model. Completely redesigned for 2026, Kia’s latest subcompact crossover SUV dons a completely new design, upgraded tech, and an available hybrid variant for those who desire efficiency with electrified performance.
As with every new Kia, the new generation Seltos adopts the brand’s Opposite United design language. In this case, the Seltos features a wider grille flanked by Kia’s signature Star Map LED daytime running lights, while the headlight clusters themselves are embedded into the grille.
As we move towards the side, diagonal lines form a prominent profile, rising from the front wheel arches and then continuing towards the D-pillars. Diagonal lines have become a visual identity for the Kia branding, and cleverly adding it to the design of the Seltos helps this vehicle stand out even more. Finally, as we move towards the rear end, the Star Map pattern is mirrored in the vertical LED taillights, in which these are visually connected by a full-width LED light bar.
Depending on the markets where the Seltos will be sold, a rugged X-Line (black) variant and a sporty GT Line (silver) variant will be available. X-Line is characterized by rugged exterior touches, while GT Line features more body-colored trims.
Moving towards the interior of the 2026 Kia Seltos, you will see that it dons a completely reimagined dash design that features premium materials and striking lines. The predominantly horizontal dash motif features multi-layered materials and color schemes, depending on the markets it will be sold in.
Two 12.3-inch screens running the latest connected car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) operating system are fitted to most variants, along with a row of physical controls for the climate below it. Also, the gear selector is now electronic, and it has migrated towards the bottom of the steering column. A Bose or Harman Kardon sound system is fitted to higher variants as well, along with ambient LED lighting, a powered tailgate, and a panoramic sunroof.
Kia has also revealed the three initial engine choices for the new generation Seltos. The base engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 149 horsepower and 179 Nm of torque, and this is mated to a CVT (branded as Intelligent Variable Transmission).
The other engine choice is a 1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder in two power outputs. The standard output is 180 horsepower and 265 Nm of torque, and this is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic or a six-speed manual. The higher output version produces 193 horsepower and 265 Nm of torque, and this is solely paired to an eight-speed automatic.
Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard, but the optional all-wheel drive (AWD) also adds multi-link rear suspension. An upcoming hybrid variant is set to debut in 2026, and it comes with electric vehicle-like functions such as vehicle-to-load (V2L).
Production of the 2026 Kia Seltos will begin this month, starting in India, followed by launches in South Korea, North America, Europe, and China in 2026.
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