New Gen Kia Seltos 2026 First Impressions
The second-generation Kia Seltos has finally arrived, and this time it looks more premium, more aggressive and more feature-loaded than ever. The model shown here is the X-Line, which sits at the top of the range and comes with exclusive styling and equipment.
This article organises all the real-world information into a clean, easy-to-read format so that buyers can quickly understand what has changed, what remains the same, and what to expect from the new Seltos.
Design and Exterior Updates
The biggest change in the new Seltos is the exterior design. It looks larger, wider and more SUV-like than before.
Key exterior highlights
Flush, pop-out door handles that extend when you approach the car
Fully blacked-out alloy wheels
X-Line badging at the rear
Floating roof effect
Functional roof rails
Inspired by the Kia Telluride design language
Connected LED tail lamps
Tiger nose digital grille
Neon-finished front brake calipers (segment-first)
Fog lamps with new DRL signature
Dimensions changes compared to previous model
The new Seltos has grown in size, which improves cabin and boot space.
| Parameter | Increase |
|---|---|
| Length | +95 mm |
| Wheelbase | +80 mm |
| Width | +30 mm |
Wheel and tyre details
Wheel size: 18-inch (top variant)
Tyre size: 215/55 R18
Gloss-finished alloys (look premium but are scratch prone)
Platform and Safety
The new-generation Seltos is based on Kia’s K3 platform, which promises better body rigidity and improved crash safety.
ADAS and safety hardware
Level 2 ADAS with around 22–23 functions
Front camera for lane keep assist
6 parking sensors at the front
6 parking sensors at the rear
360-degree camera system
Blind view monitor
Front dash cam (factory fitted)
Rear dash cam (factory fitted)
Rain sensor
This is one of the very few cars in the segment to offer factory-fitted front and rear dash cameras without loose cables.
Engine and Gearbox Options
The mechanicals largely remain unchanged, which is actually a good thing because the engines are proven and reliable.
Petrol Turbo
Engine: 1.5L Turbo Petrol
Power: 160 PS
Torque: 23 kgm
Gearbox: 7-speed DCT automatic
Petrol NA
Engine: 1.5L Naturally Aspirated Petrol
Power: 113–114 hp
Torque: 144–145 Nm
Diesel
Engine: 1.5L Diesel
Power: 113–114 hp
Torque: 250 Nm
Fuel Tank Capacity
There is an unusual difference in fuel tank sizes across engines.
| Engine Type | Fuel Tank Capacity |
|---|---|
| 1.5 NA Petrol | 47 litres |
| 1.5 Diesel | 47 litres |
| 1.5 Turbo Petrol | 50 litres |
Interior Design and Cabin Quality
The cabin has received a major upgrade in design, materials, and technology.
X-Line interior theme
Greenish-black seat highlights
X-Line branding on seats
Unique dashboard colour inserts
Net-style headrest design at front
Hard seats, slightly on the firmer side
Ambient lighting with 64 colour options
Screens and displays
| Screen | Size |
|---|---|
| Digital instrument cluster | 12.3 inches |
| Touchscreen infotainment | 12.3 inches |
| Climate control display | 5 inches |
Heads-up display, available only on X-Line
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Infotainment and Connected Tech
The system is smoother, faster and more feature-rich compared to the earlier model.
Key infotainment features
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
In-built navigation
Weather updates
Valet mode
Voice memo
Sports calendar
Vehicle diagnostics
OTA updates via Kia Connect
Car wash mode
Carrier mode to disable parking sensors when using a cycle carrier
Drive Modes and Terrain Modes
The car now gets both drive and terrain modes.
Drive modes
Eco
Normal
Sport
Terrain modes
Snow
Mud
Sand
Ambient lighting can be linked to these modes so cabin colours change with the driving setting.
Driver’s Seat and Front Cabin Features
The driver-focused area gets a lot of premium upgrades.
Key driver-side features
10-way power-adjustable driver seat
Memory function for driver seat
Seat ventilation
Electric parking brake
Auto hold
Traction control button
Headlight leveller
Large door pockets
Seat-mounted window controls with one-touch up/down
Ambient lighting
Steering wheel and mirrors
Asymmetrical Kia logo steering wheel
Reach and rake adjustment
Auto-dimming IRVM
Kia Connect and SOS buttons
Blind view monitor display
Rear Seat Comfort
The rear seat experience is better than before due to the increased wheelbase.
Rear seat features
Flat rear floor
Good legroom and knee room
Rear AC vents
USB Type-C charging ports (mounted on the sides)
Magazine pockets
ISOFIX child seat mounts
Rear headrests
Sun blind
What’s missing
No rear seat ventilation (available in Kia Syros, not in Seltos)
No dedicated phone pocket like the smaller Kia SUVs
Boot Space and Practicality
Boot space has improved slightly over the previous model.
| Parameter | Old Model | New Model |
|---|---|---|
| Boot Space | 433 litres | 447 litres |
Boot highlights
Boot lamp
Subwoofer placement
60:40 split rear seats
Sliding rear seat function
15-inch spare wheel (not full size)
Variant Line-up Explained
Main variant families
Tech Line (H series)
GT Line
X-Line
GT Line offers sportier styling and more features, while X-Line focuses on exclusive design and luxury.
Expected Price
Due to the added size, new platform and extra technology, prices are expected to rise.
Expected top-end on-road price in Mumbai: around ₹26 lakh
Real-World Verdict
The new-generation Seltos feels far more premium than before.
What has improved
Design looks more SUV-like and mature
Better cabin quality and technology
Bigger dimensions and improved space
Factory-fitted front and rear dash cams
Wireless smartphone connectivity
Things that could have been better
No rear seat ventilation
HUD limited only to X-Line
Ride quality still expected to be on the firmer side
No truly unique segment-first feature anymore
Final Thoughts
The new Kia Seltos is no longer just a feature-packed compact SUV. It has grown up in design, size and road presence. It may not feel as revolutionary as the first-generation model, but it still remains one of the most desirable SUVs in the segment due to strong brand value, loyal fan base and balanced overall package.
It looks much better in real life than in photos and definitely gives a mini-Telluride vibe. This is a car that focuses on looking premium, feeling loaded and delivering a dependable driving experience.
