2026 Kia Seltos launch: Major styling, interior and engine updates explained
GH News December 09, 2025 03:06 PM
Tomorrow is the global launch of the next-generation Kia Seltos and the pre-launch teasers we’ve seen so far indicate it will be a much more stylish feature-packed and ‘ambitious’ version of the compact SUV that has been a strong performer in its segment. Updated Look: Exterior Changes In terms of looks the 2026 Kia Seltos appears sharper and sportier. The new front fascia is highlighted by a two-piece LED DRL setup on both the left and right along with a redesigned bonnet and refreshed front bumper. Front Fog-light surrounds get new inserts there are also forward-facing parking sensors and a different rear treatment as well - reimagined LED tail lamps (triangular inserts in the light assembly) a twin-piece LED light bar on the tailgate and glossy black inserts at various parts around the outside further add to the car’s premium yet sporty appearance. The SUV also gets dynamic turn indicators roof rails a shark-fin antenna an integrated spoiler with a vertically mounted stop lamp and at least one new colour. Teaser hint: a matte-black finish used in the teaser images - something that is usually reserved only for the “X-Line” trim which means the sporty-looking trim will be offered at launch. Inside: Infotainment and Materials Inside the cabin of the new Seltos looks a lot more premium and up-to-date. As expected the likely “GT-Line” trim that we’ve seen in recent spy shots gets a dual-tone theme along with a flat-bottom three-spoke steering wheel with built-in controls. The big reveal here will likely be a dual-curved panoramic screen set-up merging the infotainment screen and the driver’s instrument cluster into one combined and flowing interface – indicative of how Kia is zeroing in on a more modern tech-focused design language. Other nice additions like updated storage cubbies metal-finish pedals redesigned HVAC controls and contrast-coloured stitching add to the cabin’s premium feel. Powertrain: Expectations and Speculations For powertrain nothing has been confirmed officially so far by the automaker. The good bet is that the same engines will be carried over - the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol 1.5-litre diesel and 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engines. However we’ve also been hearing rumblings of a hybrid powertrain - 1.6-litre engine mated to an electric motor and battery pack - something that could make the new Seltos sharper in terms of competition in an automotive segment that’s seeing a clear shift towards efficiency and electrification. What it could mean - and what to expect? On the whole it seems like the 2026 Seltos is set to redefine the compact SUV segment by offering an enviable mix of practicality and affordability with style and tech and potentially sporty electrified performance. If done right it could be one of the most attractive SUVs in this class. For buyers in India and other markets where the Seltos has emerged as the brand’s bestselling SUV the new-gen will also set a new standard for compact-to-mid size SUVs from Kia in this segment. Expect full details complete trim details and official confirmation of powertrain and pricing on the launch tomorrow.
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