Launched in Hyderabad—the birthplace of the Seltos and home to Kia India’s R&D centre—the updated Kia Seltos arrived with quiet confidence rather than theatrical fanfare. And within moments, it became clear that this wasn’t a routine facelift. This is a carefully judged evolution, one that makes the Seltos bolder, bigger, and more sophisticated in almost every meaningful way. It feels more mature, more substantial, and more resolved—reinforcing its position as the backbone of Kia’s India strategy. Strengthening the proposition further is its aggressive pricing, ranging from ₹10.99 lakh to ₹19.99 lakh (ex-showroom).
The Seltos has always been Kia’s cornerstone in India—the model that transformed the brand from an unknown entrant into a serious trendsetter. Globally, Kia has long stood for value, but in India, the original Seltos rewrote expectations with its daring design, premium interiors and technology-first approach. For 2026, the Seltos sharpens that legacy, refining a winning formula rather than reinventing it. This is intelligent evolution, executed with intent.
Visually, the new Seltos makes an immediate statement. The design language has been tightened and strengthened, resulting in a front end that looks wider and more planted. The new ‘Digital Tiger Face’ grille is more prominent and intricately detailed, flanked by sleek Star Map LED DRLs and Ice Cube LED projectors. The effect is confident without being aggressive. In profile, the increase in length to a segment-leading 4,460mm gives the SUV a more balanced, elegant stance, eliminating any hint of compactness, further aided by the enhanced 1,830 mm width and a longer wheelbase at 2,690 mm. At the rear, connected Star Map LED tail-lamps and sculpted surfaces complete a design that doesn’t merely occupy road space—it commands it.
When you step inside using the first-in-segment Automatic Streamline Door Handles and Smart Key Proximity Unlock Function, you see that the promise of the exterior is fully realised. The cabin sets a new benchmark for design integration and in-car technology. Dominating the dashboard is a best-in-segment 75.18 cm Trinity Panoramic Display panel. The result is an immersive, driver-focused cockpit that feels lifted from a higher segment altogether. Graphics are sharp, responses are slick, and connectivity options are comprehensive.
Crucially, Kia resists the temptation to over-digitise. Physical controls for key functions such as climate control and volume return—solid, tactile, and beautifully damped. It’s a thoughtful decision that prioritises real-world usability over visual novelty. Ambient lighting, premium soft-touch materials and excellent fit-and-finish create an environment that feels both modern and welcoming. Technology here supports the driving experience rather than overwhelming it.
The biggest transformation, however, is felt on the move. From the driver’s seat—with the first-in-segment 10-way Adjustable, Welcome Retract Seat function, Power Lumbar Support, an Indulgent Relaxation function, and Integrated Memory Driver Seat with ORVM settings—the improvement in ride quality and dynamic stability is immediately apparent. Around town, the Seltos glides over broken surfaces with a newfound composure, ironing out imperfections with muted, controlled response. The suspension feels far more resolved, delivering a level of refinement that was missing earlier.
Out on the highway, the Seltos truly shines. High-speed stability is exceptional, with the SUV feeling planted and secure even during rapid lane changes or sustained cruising. Crosswinds barely register, and the body feels impressively rigid. Steering is precise and reassuring, making the larger footprint easy to place, while braking performance remains strong and confidence-inspiring. This isn’t just a suspension tweak—it’s a fundamental reworking of the driving experience.
Kia’s philosophy of choice remains intact. The Seltos continues to offer a broad range of engines, such as a 1.5-litre petrol, a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol and a 1.5-litre diesel, paired with multiple transmission options including 6-speed manual, 6-speed iMT, IVT, 7-speed dual-clutch automatic and a 6-speed automatic. The petrol engine stands out for its smoothness and eager response, equally comfortable in city traffic or on open highways. The diesel, meanwhile, delivers relaxed, torque-rich performance ideal for long-distance touring, all within a cabin that is now noticeably quieter thanks to improved insulation.
The increased dimensions translate directly into improved space and comfort. Rear-seat passengers benefit from generous legroom and headroom, while supportive seats front and rear make long journeys genuinely comfortable. A well-shaped 422-litre boot easily handles family luggage, reinforcing the Seltos’ credentials as a practical, all-round family SUV.
Safety underpins the entire package. Increased use of high-strength steel enhances structural rigidity thanks to Kia’s global K3 platform, complemented by a comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) L2 with 21 autonomous features, and a robust 24 standard safety pack with 6 airbags, ABS, hill-start assist and more. The result is a holistic safety approach focused on both prevention and protection.
The updated Kia Seltos is a confident, well-judged statement. It takes everything that made the original successful and elevates it—design, technology, comfort and driving maturity. In a fiercely competitive midsize SUV segment, the Seltos doesn’t merely participate. It reasserts itself, setting a renewed benchmark with calm authority. With its bigger size, a bolder design, a more progressive approach towards tech and safety, along with a wide array of choices—be it powertrain, features, variants, safety—strengthens the fact that Kia really nailed the new Seltos to be the perfect choice for any family.
