The Kia Seltos has become one of India’s most successful mid-size SUVs since its debut in 2019. Known for its stylish looks, feature-rich cabin, strong performance, and modern technology, the Seltos has consistently held a top spot in sales charts. Now, Kia is ready to take things to the next level with the new-generation Seltos, officially set to make its grand debut on 2 January 2026.
This upcoming model is one of the most anticipated SUV launches of the year, bringing major upgrades in design, features, technology, and safety. Based on leaks, teasers, and internal previews, here is a complete 1000-word guide on what the new-gen Seltos will offer.
🚘 A Big Leap in Design: Sharper, Bolder, More Premium
The 2026 Seltos will not just be a facelift—it is expected to be a full-fledged new generation update. Kia has worked on making the SUV look even more futuristic while retaining the identity that made it so popular.
🔸 Front-End Changes
The front profile will receive a redesigned:
- Larger tiger-nose grille
- Connected LED DRLs
- New LED projector headlamps
- Updated bumper with sportier air intakes
The connected DRL signature will give the Seltos a more premium, global-SUV appeal.
🔸 Side Profile Upgrades
While the silhouette will remain familiar, details will be new:
- Fresh set of alloy wheels (17 and 18-inch options)
- Sharper body lines
- More muscular wheel arches
- Updated GT Line design elements
Expect more dual-tone options as well.
🔸 Rear Design Enhancements
The rear will feature:
- New continuous LED taillight bar
- Revised bumper
- Dual exhaust-style finish (GT Line and X Line)
- Shark fin antenna
- Wider stance appearance
Overall, the SUV will look sportier, more modern, and more aggressive than the current version.
🛋 Interior: A More Luxurious & High-Tech Space
Kia is known for offering best-in-segment interiors, and the new-gen Seltos aims to push that boundary even further.
⭐ Major Interior Upgrades Include:
✔ Fully Redesigned Dashboard
The dashboard is expected to be minimalistic and more premium. High-quality soft-touch materials will be used more extensively.
✔ Curved Dual-Screen Layout
New-gen Seltos will likely feature:
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system
Both screens will appear as a single curved panel, similar to high-end Kia and Hyundai models.
✔ Advanced Connected Car Tech
With Kia Connect 2.0, the SUV will offer:
- 70+ connected features
- Remote climate control
- Car status monitoring
- Vehicle tracking & safety alerts
✔ New Steering Wheel and AC Controls
The steering wheel may adopt a multi-layer design seen in new Kia global models.
Touch-pad AC controls may replace traditional knobs.
✔ Larger Panoramic Sunroof
The Seltos will include a segment-leading panoramic glass roof for greater cabin openness.
✔ Premium Comfort Features
The new-gen model is expected to include:
- Ventilated front seats
- Powered driver seat
- Dual-zone climate control
- Ambient cabin lighting
- Wireless phone charging
- Premium leatherette upholstery
🔧 Improved Powertrain Options: Stronger & Smoother
Kia will continue to offer multiple engine options, but they are expected to be more refined and efficient in the 2026 model.
⚙ Expected Engine Options:
- 1.5L Naturally Aspirated Petrol – Smooth and reliable
- 1.5L Turbo-Petrol – Performance-focused, powerful
- 1.5L Diesel – High fuel efficiency
Transmissions will include:
- 6-speed manual
- IVT (Intelligent Variable Transmission)
- 7-speed DCT
- 6-speed automatic (diesel)
Rumours also suggest that Kia may bring a mild-hybrid technology to improve fuel economy.
🛡 Safety: Upgraded to Global Standards
Safety is expected to be one of the biggest improvements in the 2026 Seltos.
⭐ Key Safety Features May Include:
- ADAS Level 2 package
- Forward Collision Warning
- Lane Keep Assist
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- 6–8 airbags
- 360-degree camera
- Hill assist
- Electronic Stability Control
- Tyre pressure monitoring system
Kia aims to achieve five-star safety ratings for the new generation in international and Indian crash tests.
🧩 Variants and Expected Features
The new-gen Seltos is expected to offer variants similar to the current lineup, with enhancements:
🎯 Expected Variants:
- HTE (Base)
- HTK
- HTK+
- HTX
- GT Line
- X Line
⭐ HT Line
More elegant and family-oriented, focusing on comfort, premium features, and practicality.
⭐ GT Line
Sporty styling, red accents, aggressive bumpers, and a performance-focused appeal.
⭐ X Line
Matte paint options, exclusive wheels, and the most premium feature list.
🎨 Colour Options: More Variety Than Ever
Like the recently revealed palette, the new-gen Seltos may come with 12 bold and premium colours, including:
- Aurora Black Pearl
- Blizzard White
- Gravity Grey
- Steel Silver
- Sapphire Blue
- Orange Fusion (new)
- Matte Grey (X Line)
- Dual-tone options
These colours will enhance the SUV’s bold and futuristic design.
💰 Expected Price Range
Though Kia will announce official pricing at the launch, the new-gen Seltos is expected to cost slightly more due to major upgrades.
Estimated Price Range:
₹ 11.50 lakh – ₹ 20.50 lakh (ex-showroom)
Despite the increase, it will remain competitive in its segment.
🏁 Conclusion: A Game-Changing SUV for 2026
The new-generation Kia Seltos launching on 2 January 2026 is gearing up to redefine the mid-size SUV category once again. With major improvements in design, premium interiors, advanced technology, powerful engines, and enhanced safety, the SUV will attract both existing Kia fans and new buyers.
Kia has pushed boundaries with this model, making it one of the most awaited launches of 2026. Whether you’re looking for style, comfort, features, or performance, the new-gen Seltos promises to deliver everything in a more refined and futuristic package.
About the Author
