2026 Kia Seltos Launched in India: Price, New K3 Platform, Trinity Display & Deep Review
The automotive landscape in India has just witnessed a monumental shift. As of January 2026, the Second-Generation Kia Seltos has officially arrived. Built on the revolutionary global K3 platform, this isn’t just an upgrade; it is a complete re-imagining of what a mid-size SUV can be. At carsinformation.in, we bring you the most in-depth analysis of the 2026 Seltos, covering everything from variant-wise pricing to futuristic tech.
1. Design Evolution: The “Digital Tiger Face”
The 2026 Kia Seltos design follows the ‘Opposites United’ philosophy, looking more aggressive and sophisticated. With a length of 4,460mm, it is now significantly larger than the previous generation, offering a massive road presence.
- Flush Door Handles: A segment-first feature that provides a seamless side profile and aerodynamic efficiency.
- Star Map LED Lighting: Futuristic interconnected DRLs and tail lamps that define the 2026 aesthetic.
- Increased Wheelbase: Providing more legroom for rear passengers, making it the perfect family SUV.
2. 2026 Kia Seltos Price List (Variant-Wise)
Kia has strategically priced the new Seltos to dominate the C-SUV segment. Here is the detailed ex-showroom price breakdown for Petrol and Diesel models.
Petrol Variants (1.5L NA & 1.5L Turbo T-GDi)
| Variant | Engine & Transmission | Price (Ex-Showroom) |
|---|---|---|
| HTE (Base) | 1.5L Petrol MT | ₹10.99 Lakh |
| HTK Plus | 1.5L Petrol iVT | ₹14.39 Lakh |
| HTX (Mid) | 1.5L Turbo iMT | ₹16.89 Lakh |
| GTX Plus | 1.5L Turbo 7-DCT | ₹19.99 Lakh |
| X-Line | 1.5L Turbo 7-DCT (Matte) | ₹20.15 Lakh |
Diesel Variants (1.5L CRDi VGT)
| Variant | Engine & Transmission | Price (Ex-Showroom) |
|---|---|---|
| HTE Diesel | 1.5L Diesel 6-MT | ₹12.59 Lakh |
| HTX Diesel | 1.5L Diesel 6-AT | ₹18.49 Lakh |
| GTX Plus Diesel | 1.5L Diesel 6-AT | ₹19.89 Lakh |
3. The Trinity Display & Futuristic Interior
Inside the cabin, the 2026 Seltos feels like a luxury spacecraft. The Trinity Panoramic Display is the star of the show. It consists of three integrated screens that span the dashboard, offering high-definition graphics and a seamless user interface.
“The cabin insulation and the quality of soft-touch materials used in the 2026 Seltos put many entry-level luxury cars to shame.”
Premium Tech Features:
- ADAS Level 2+: 21 autonomous features, including Highway Driving Assist and Evasive Steering Assist.
- Dual-Pane Sunroof: Panoramic view that enhances the sense of space.
- Bose Premium Sound: 8-speaker system with Active Sound Design (ASD).
- Dual Zone Climate Control: Allowing separate temperature settings for the driver and co-passenger.
4. Engine, Performance, and Mileage
The 2026 Kia Seltos engine options cater to every type of driver. The new K3 platform has reduced the overall weight, resulting in better mileage and improved handling dynamics.
- 1.5L Smartstream Petrol: Ideal for city commutes with smooth power delivery. (Estimated Mileage: 17.5 kmpl)
- 1.5L T-GDi Turbo Petrol: The powerhouse with 160 PS, mated to a lightning-fast 7-speed DCT. (Estimated Mileage: 16.2 kmpl)
- 1.5L CRDi Diesel: The torque king, perfect for highway cruising. (Estimated Mileage: 21.1 kmpl)
5. Verdict: Should You Buy the 2026 Kia Seltos?
The 2026 Seltos is a masterclass in automotive engineering. It balances price, performance, and features better than the Hyundai Creta or the Maruti Grand Vitara. If you want a tech-loaded, safe, and powerful SUV under ₹20 Lakh, the 2026 Seltos is the undisputed champion.
Frequently Asked Questions (AEO Optimized)
Q1: What is the top speed of the 2026 Kia Seltos Turbo?
A: The 2026 Kia Seltos 1.5L T-GDi Turbo Petrol variant can achieve a top speed of approximately 190 km/h under controlled conditions. This engine delivers a class-leading 160 PS of power and 253 Nm of torque. With the 7-speed DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission), it can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 8.9 seconds, making it one of the quickest SUVs in the C-SUV segment.
Q2: Has the 2026 Seltos received a 5-star safety rating?
A: The second-generation Seltos is built on the high-strength global K3 platform, which features reinforced crumple zones and increased use of high-tensile steel. Following the success of the Kia Syros, the 2026 Seltos is engineered specifically to target a 5-star Bharat NCAP safety rating. Standard safety equipment across all variants includes 6 Airbags, ESC, VSM, Hill-start Assist, and All-wheel Disc Brakes.
Q3: Is there a Hybrid variant of the Seltos available in 2026?
A: At launch, the 2026 Seltos is available with Smartstream Petrol and CRDi Diesel engines. However, Kia India is expected to introduce a Strong Hybrid Petrol variant by early 2027. This hybrid model aims to compete with the Maruti Grand Vitara and Toyota Hyryder, targeting a fuel efficiency of over 24-25 kmpl.
Q4: How much boot space and ground clearance does the 2026 Seltos offer?
A: Thanks to the increased length (+95mm) and wheelbase (+80mm), the 2026 Kia Seltos boot space has increased to 447 liters, which is 14 liters more than the previous model. The SUV maintains a practical ground clearance of 190mm, making it well-suited for rough Indian road conditions and high speed breakers.
Q5: What are the new ADAS Level 2+ features in the 2026 model?
A: The Kia Drive Wise suite in the 2026 Seltos now includes 21 autonomous features. Key additions include Junction Turning Assist, which prevents collisions at intersections, and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, which is perfect for heavy city traffic. Other features include Lane Following Assist, Blind Spot Collision-Avoidance, and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.
Q6: How does the 2026 Seltos compare to the Hyundai Creta?
A: While both share engines, the 2026 Seltos offers a more tech-forward cabin with the Trinity Panoramic Display (3 screens) compared to the Creta’s dual-screen setup. The Seltos is also longer (4,460mm) and features unique automatic flush door handles, giving it a more premium, “mini-EV9” look. However, the Creta remains popular for its slightly softer, comfort-oriented suspension.
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