2026 Kia Seltos (Second Generation) Debuts In India – Bookings Open At Midnight
Kia has chosen India for the global premiere of the second-generation Seltos, marking a major milestone for the brand’s most successful SUV. Unlike a facelift, this is a fully redesigned model built on a new platform with significant upgrades to design, cabin experience, technology and features. Bookings open at midnight for a token amount of ₹25,000, with prices scheduled for announcement on January 2, 2026. Customer deliveries will begin by mid-January. The Seltos first launched in India in 2019 and has since become one of the brand’s strongest pillars in the country.
New K3 Platform & Larger Dimensions
The 2026 Seltos moves to Kia’s new-age K3 platform, a heavily reworked architecture that improves interior space, dynamics and refinement. The SUV is now significantly larger in every direction, measuring 4460 mm in length, 1890 mm in width and offering an extended 2690 mm wheelbase. Height has also increased slightly, and boot space grows by 14 litres. These dimensional updates make the Seltos visibly more substantial while improving comfort for both front and rear passengers.
Fresh Exterior Design With Premium SUV Character
The second-generation Seltos brings a bold new design language to India. The front fascia now features a wider Tigerface grille, an upright nose and a taller bonnet that together create a more confident stance. Vertical LED DRLs with stacked elements, new LED headlamps and a sculpted bumper add to its strong road presence.
From the side, the new Seltos gets flush door handles, redesigned mirrors, stylish roof rails and new 18-inch alloy wheels. The dual-pane panoramic sunroof enhances its premium appeal. At the rear, the SUV receives a connected LED tail-light bar, revised bumper styling and a hidden rear wiper for a cleaner look. Ten single-tone colours will be offered, including two new shades, and the SUV will be available in HTE, HTK, HTX and GTX trims with X-Line continuing as a design package.
Overhauled Interior With 30-inch Curved Display
Inside, the cabin has been completely reimagined with a more premium, modern layout. A single curved glass panel houses two 12.3-inch displays—one for the infotainment system and the other for the digital instrument cluster—along with a dedicated climate display. This 30-inch setup is inspired by Kia’s global models and elevates the interior dramatically.
The dashboard features softer materials and more refined textures. A new four-spoke steering wheel with an offset Kia logo, redesigned AC controls and a new centre console layout add sophistication. The gear shifter has been refreshed, while physical controls for volume and essential functions maintain ease of use. The second-row seats now fold completely flat, offering more flexibility for luggage and comfort.
Features, Tech & Safety Take a Big Leap
Kia has packed the new Seltos with a significantly enhanced feature list. Notable additions include dual-zone climate control, a 10-way powered driver seat with lumbar support and memory, ventilated front seats, rear sunshades, ambient lighting with 64 colour options, Type-C ports in both rows and an 8-speaker BOSE audio system.
Safety and technology also see a major step up. The Seltos now offers Level 2 ADAS, a 360-degree camera system, an electronic parking brake with auto hold and Kia Connect 2.0 with 91 connected features. Multi-language voice commands, a digital key and proximity-based door unlocking further enhance convenience. Six airbags, ESP and traction control are part of a standard safety package featuring 24 key elements.
Powertrain Lineup Remains Familiar
The engine lineup for India continues with three proven options. The 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol makes 114 hp and 144 Nm, paired with manual or CVT gearbox options. The 1.5-litre turbo-petrol produces 158 hp and 253 Nm and comes with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The 1.5-litre diesel unit generates 115 hp and 250 Nm and can be had with either a manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic.
These engines have been refined further for the new platform, offering a balance of performance, efficiency and everyday usability. All-wheel-drive and hybrid options are reserved for overseas markets.
Price, Bookings & Competition
Bookings open at midnight for ₹25,000, followed by an official price reveal on January 2, 2026. Customer deliveries will begin in mid-January. The new Seltos enters an intensely competitive midsize SUV segment, where it will face the Hyundai Creta, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Tata Curvv and Sierra, Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun, Honda Elevate and Citroen Aircross.
Verdict
With a new platform, larger dimensions, an upgraded cabin and extensive feature enhancements, the 2026 Kia Seltos arrives as a true second-generation SUV. It represents a major leap forward for Kia in India and aims to set new benchmarks in design, technology and value in the midsize SUV space.
