Upcoming Rivals to the 2026 Kia Seltos: Duster, Tekton, Taigun and Kushaq
The refreshed 2026 Kia Seltos enters a market that is about to witness an unprecedented wave of competition. Major brands are preparing next‑gen SUVs with premium interiors, hybrid powertrains, bold design updates and advanced ADAS capabilities. These upcoming rivals are poised to challenge the Seltos more aggressively than ever, offering buyers smarter features and greater value.
Renault Duster (2026)
The 2026 Renault Duster is gearing up for a high‑profile India comeback with a triple‑screen dashboard layout. This setup includes a digital instrument cluster, a central infotainment display and a dedicated passenger‑side screen — a segment‑first feature likely to become one of its biggest draws. The new‑gen model will also feature dual‑zone climate control, wireless smartphone connectivity, OTA updates, six airbags, ADAS, and a 360‑degree camera. India‑specific cabin enhancements, including soft‑touch materials, are expected.
The SUV will debut on January 26, 2026 with petrol and strong‑hybrid powertrains, followed by a full‑electric version in 2027. With its rugged appeal and massive tech upgrades, the new Duster could dramatically alter the compact and midsize SUV landscape.
Nissan Tekton
The Nissan Tekton marks the brand’s renewed push into the Indian market, blending global styling inspiration from the Patrol with a package tailored for domestic buyers. Its bold design showcases connected LED DRLs, C‑shaped headlamps, muscular proportions and hidden rear door handles. Inside, the multi‑layered dashboard, gloss‑black inserts and copper accents elevate its premium feel.
Expected features include a large touchscreen, digital cluster, panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, wireless charging and a complete safety suite with multiple airbags, a 360‑degree camera and Level 2 ADAS. Hybrid powertrains are likely, along with manual and automatic gearbox options. A launch by Q2 2026 with pricing from around ₹10.5 lakh positions it as a strong volume contender.
Skoda Kushaq Facelift (2026)
The 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift brings meaningful upgrades as it prepares for its January launch. Spy shots highlight premium additions such as a rear‑seat massage function, a panoramic sunroof, updated touchscreen UI, new digital cluster graphics and rear disc brakes for the 1.5 TSI variants. Major improvements, including Level 2 ADAS and a 360‑degree camera, are expected to strengthen its appeal.
Exterior updates include revised lighting clusters, a refreshed grille, redesigned bumpers and new alloys. Under the hood, the 1.0‑litre and 1.5‑litre TSI engines continue, though the smaller unit may gain an 8‑speed torque‑converter automatic for smoother performance.
Volkswagen Taigun Facelift (2026)
The 2026 Volkswagen Taigun facelift focuses on refined enhancements with new soft‑touch components and ID‑inspired LED headlamps. The updated bumper and grille bring a cleaner, more squared‑off look, while redesigned alloys and tweaked tail‑lamps modernise the SUV further.
Interior updates are expected to include Level 2 ADAS and rear massage seats, mirroring the Kushaq’s upgrades. Power will continue to come from the 1.0 TSI and 1.5 TSI engines. Volkswagen may also adopt an India‑localised 8‑speed automatic transmission, replacing the current 6‑speed unit in select variants.
Verdict
With the Duster offering triple screens and hybrid tech, the Tekton introducing bold design and premium features, and the Kushaq and Taigun facelifts adding ADAS and luxury‑oriented upgrades, 2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year for midsize SUVs. The Kia Seltos may currently lead the pack, but its rivals are arriving with more sophistication, stronger features and higher value — setting the stage for one of the most competitive battles the segment has ever seen.
Credit: 91Wheels
