All-New Kia Seltos Unveiled Ahead of January 2 Launch in India

Kia has officially pulled the cover off the all-new generation Seltos, marking a major update for the ever-popular compact SUV that first arrived in India in 2019. After six years on the market, the redesigned Seltos returns with a bolder exterior, more space, an advanced interior, and a long list of technology and safety features, making it one of the most compelling entries in its class.

New Design

The new Seltos embraces a sharper and more assertive design language inspired by Kia’s larger global SUVs. The wider front grille, now flanked by vertically oriented elements, gives the SUV a stronger face, while the redesigned split LED headlamps and new DRL pattern add a more premium identity. The profile has been refined with flush-fitting door handles and newly designed 18-inch alloy wheels that improve both visual appeal and stance. At the rear, the connected L-shaped LED tail lamps stretch across the tailgate, complemented by a reshaped bumper and a sleeker roof spoiler.

Beyond the cosmetic changes, the SUV itself has grown. The new Seltos is 95 mm longer and 30 mm wider than before, and its wheelbase has been extended by 80 mm, resulting in noticeably better cabin space and giving the SUV a more planted, confident posture on the road.

New Interior

Inside, Kia has completely rethought the Seltos’ cabin, focusing on both simplicity and modernity. The dashboard is dominated by a twin-screen layout comprising a 12.3-inch infotainment system paired seamlessly with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, creating a clean, high-tech visual sweep. Just below it, a separate 5-inch display handles climate controls, enhancing both clarity and ease of use.

The new three-spoke steering wheel, upgraded materials, and well-executed ambient lighting help elevate the cabin ambiance. Rear passengers benefit from improved space thanks to the extended wheelbase, with reclining seats available in higher variants. The luggage area remains generous at around 447 litres, and convenience is boosted further by the inclusion of a powered tailgate.

New Features

Kia has equipped the new Seltos with an impressive suite of technology and comfort features to keep it ahead in a competitive segment. The panoramic sunroof enhances the sense of space, while ventilated front seats and a memory-function driver’s seat add genuine everyday comfort. The infotainment setup supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the cabin is enriched by a premium Bose audio system.

For parking and manoeuvring, the 360-degree camera system provides a comprehensive view of the surroundings. The SUV also supports over-the-air software updates and Kia’s latest connected-car functions. On the safety front, the Seltos continues to offer six airbags, electronic stability control, hill-start assist, disc brakes on all four wheels, ISOFIX mounts, rear parking sensors, and a tyre-pressure monitoring system as standard. The upper trims also come with a Level 2 ADAS package that brings additional layers of driver assistance.

Engine & Gearbox Options

Under the hood, the new-generation Seltos carries forward its familiar trio of engines. The 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine delivers around 115 hp and 144 Nm of torque and can be paired with either a 6-speed manual or a CVT. Those seeking more performance can opt for the 1.5-litre turbo-petrol motor, which produces approximately 160 hp and 253 Nm, available with an iMT or a 7-speed DCT. The 1.5-litre diesel engine remains part of the lineup as well, generating around 116 hp and 250 Nm, with a choice between a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic transmission.

A hybrid option has not been confirmed for the Indian market at launch, though Kia does offer hybrid powertrains in international versions of the Seltos.

Variants, Pricing & Rivals

The new Seltos will continue with Kia’s familiar trim structure, beginning with the Tech Line variants—HTE, HTK, and HTX—followed by the sportier GT Line represented by the GTX, and topped off by the X-Line, which adds unique cosmetic upgrades to the GT platform. Bookings opened on December 11, and prices will be officially announced on January 2, 2026. Market estimates suggest an expected range between INR12 lakh and INR20 lakh (ex-showroom), depending on variant and powertrain.

When it arrives in showrooms, the new-generation Seltos will go head-to-head with popular rivals like the Hyundai Creta, Honda Elevate, Tata Sierra, Maruti Suzuki Victoris, Toyota Hyryder, Skoda Kushaq, and Volkswagen Taigun—each strong in its own way, but none short of competition against the comprehensively updated Seltos.

Kia’s latest Seltos is not a reinvention but a thoughtful evolution of a formula that already worked. It is bigger, smarter, more feature-rich, and carries a design that feels both fresh and familiar. With its blend of style, space, performance, and technology, the new Seltos is well-positioned to continue its strong legacy and challenge the standards of the compact SUV segment as it heads into 2026.