Kia introduces the next-generation Seltos

2026 Kia Seltos
Photo: Kia Global

Kia has introduced the all-new Seltos, marking the second generation of its global subcompact SUV. The redesigned model features updated styling, improved practicality, and expanded technology, reinforcing its role as one of Kia’s strategic global products, as the first-generation model demonstrated.

2026 Kia Seltos
Photo: Kia Global

The new Seltos debuted with an online world premiere under the theme “The Protagonist,” highlighting how the SUV supports diverse lifestyles and personal goals. Kia President and CEO Ho Sung Song said the model continues its legacy of value with an enhanced feature set designed to meet diverse mobility needs.

2026 Kia Seltos
Photo: Kia Global

Developed under Kia’s Opposites United design philosophy, the latest Seltos adopts a broader stance and sharper, more structured lines. It features a larger grille with Kia’s star map lighting signature, flush door handles, and vertical tail lamps that stretch across the tailgate. The SUV measures 4,430 mm in length, 1,830 mm in width, and 1,600 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,690 mm. It comes with distinct trim options: the X-Line with rugged dark gunmetal accents and the GT-Line with a sportier, body-colored look. New exterior colors, including Iceberg Green, Gravity Gray, and matte Magma Red, expand its visual appeal.

2026 Kia Seltos
Photo: Kia Global

Inside, the Seltos offers a redesigned cabin with a low, horizontal dashboard that improves visibility and enhances the sense of space. The adoption of a column-type Shift-by-Wire system frees up the center console, contributing to a more open layout. The interior includes a panoramic sunroof, customizable 64-color ambient lighting, 24-degree reclining rear seats, and premium audio systems from Harman Kardon and Bose. The Kia Connect Store adds further personalization options, including entertainment features in collaboration with Disney and the NBA.

2026 Kia Seltos
Photo: Kia Global
2026 Kia Seltos
Photo: Kia Global
2026 Kia Seltos
Photo: Kia Global
2026 Kia Seltos
Photo: Kia Global
2026 Kia Seltos
Photo: Kia Global
2026 Kia Seltos
Photo: Kia Global
2026 Kia Seltos
Photo: Kia Global

Built on Kia’s latest K3 platform, the Seltos benefits from improved body rigidity, better noise insulation, and balanced chassis tuning. Powertrain options vary by market and include a 1.6-liter T-GDI turbocharged petrol engine with either 177 hp or up to 190 hp, as well as a 2.0-liter petrol engine rated at 147 hp. Transmission options include manual, dual-clutch, CVT, and automatic configurations. Optional all-wheel drive paired with a multi-link rear suspension and Terrain Mode enhances capability in Snow, Mud, and Sand conditions. Drive Mode Select offers Eco, Normal, and Sport settings. A hybrid variant will arrive in 2026, adding greater efficiency, Smart Regenerative Braking System 3.0, and Vehicle-to-Load functionality.

2026 Kia Seltos
Photo: Kia Global
2026 Kia Seltos
Photo: Kia Global

The new Seltos integrates advanced safety features and structural improvements, including extensive use of ultra-high-strength steel. Its driver-assistance systems include Highway Driving Assist 2, Lane Following Assist 2, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2, Safe Exit Warning, Surround View Monitor, Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist-Reverse, and Parking Distance Warning on all sides. A head-up display, dual 12.3-inch screens, an AI Assistant powered by generative AI, Over-the-Air updates, and Digital Key 2 further enhance convenience and connectivity.

Photo: Kia Global

With a luggage capacity of 536 liters and a foldable dual-level cargo board, the Seltos offers strong practicality for daily and weekend use. Kia’s AddGear accessory system allows customers to attach modular storage accessories for better organization.

2026 Kia Seltos
Photo: Kia Global
2026 Kia Seltos
Photo: Kia Global

Global production of the all-new Seltos begins in December 2025 in India, followed by market launches across Korea, North America, Europe, and China throughout 2026.

Written by
Carlos Miguel Divino

Carlos Miguel Divino

Senior Writer

Carlos has lived and breathed cars his entire life. His abundant wealth of knowledge, extensive seat time on the world's best driving roads, and unsatiable curiosity for anything with wheels all mesh together to produce works of passion. IG: @cmdrives.ph Email: [email protected]

View all posts by Carlos Miguel Divino →

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