The wait is over. Kia lifted the curtains on the Second Generation Kia Seltos, a vehicle they are calling “The Protagonist”. If you are in the market for an SUV that doesn’t just drive you but empowers you, the new Seltos claims to be the character that drives your story forward.

This isn’t just a facelift; it’s a comprehensive evolution. With a longer wheelbase, smarter tech, and the “Opposites United” design language, the new Seltos is bigger, bolder, and more “Badass” than ever before.

Whether you are a tech-savvy commuter or an adventure-seeking family, here is everything you need to know about the all-new Kia Seltos.

Kia has redesigned the Seltos with a stronger structure, a wider stance and a smarter cabin. It still fits into the subcompact SUV category, yet it aims to feel like a vehicle a class above. The theme behind the new model is “The Protagonist” – the idea that the car should help drivers live more freely and confidently.

At its core, the new Seltos is built on Kia’s updated K3 platform. This means better body rigidity for safety and comfort, improved noise insulation and chassis tuning that aims to reduce harshness on rough roads. The design follows Kia’s “Opposites United” philosophy, which blends rugged SUV cues with clean, modern surfaces.

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Design: Bolder Stance, Bigger Presence

The first thing you will notice is that the Seltos has grown up. It adopts Kia’s “Opposites United” design philosophy, which mixes rugged strength with modern refinement. Flush door handles improve aerodynamics and reduce wind noise.

Dominating Size: The new Seltos sits on a 2,690 mm wheelbase. This is a significant jump, translating directly to more cabin space. The overall length is now up to 4,460 mm (depending on the variant), giving it a commanding presence on the road.

Lighting Signature: The face is defined by the Star Map LED DRLs and Intense Ice Cube LED Projection Headlamps. These aren’t just lights; they perform a “Dynamic Welcome Light” sequence when you approach, making the car feel alive.

Rear Profile: The rear features Star Map LED Connected Tail Lamps that stretch across the tailgate, emphasizing the car’s width and stability.

The Look: Depending on the trim, you get different vibes. The X-Line features a “Kia Digital Tiger Face” with a Black High Glossy Grille and rugged skid plates, while the GT-Line sports body-colored inserts and neon brake calipers for a racy look.

The increased dimensions don’t just look good; they fix one of the compact SUV segment’s biggest complaints—rear legroom. The “Extended Wheelbase” creates a genuinely roomier cabin.

Boot space is another practical highlight. The global model offers 536 litres, while the India-specific version lists 447 litres (VDA) depending on variant and wheel size. Both numbers place it among the largest in its class, useful for families, travellers and anyone who carries bulkier items.

Dimensions:

• Length: 4,430 mm
• Width: 1,830 mm
• Height: 1,600 mm
• Wheelbase: 2,690 mm

Interior: A “Trinity” of Tech and Comfort

Step inside, and the “Badass” exterior gives way to a “Commanding Elegance”. The cabin is designed to be a lounge, using horizontal lines to create a sense of openness.

The Cockpit

The centerpiece is the Trinity Panoramic Display. This massive panel integrates:

• A 12.3-inch HD Touchscreen Navigation.
• A 12.3-inch Full Digital Instrument Cluster.
• Seamless integration with climate controls and vehicle settings.

Comfort Features

• Dual Pane Panoramic Sunroof: Floods the cabin with light, making the interior feel massive.
• Ventilated Seats: Both front seats are ventilated—a lifesaver in hot climates.
• Power Driver Seat: The driver gets an 10–way power-adjustable seat with a Relaxation Position and memory function.
• Ambient Lighting: Customize your mood with 64-color ambient lighting that syncs with the drive.

Technology & Safety: ADAS Level 2

Kia has doubled down on safety and automation. The new Seltos comes equipped with ADAS Level 2 (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) featuring 21 autonomous features.

Key ADAS Features Explained:

• Smart Cruise Control (SCC) with Stop & Go: The car maintains speed and distance from the vehicle ahead, even bringing itself to a complete stop in traffic.
• Front Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA): Detects cars, pedestrians, and cyclists, and brakes automatically if a collision is imminent.
• Blind Spot Collision Warning (BCW) & Avoidance Assist (BCA): Warns you of cars in your blind spot and can actively steer you back if you try to change lanes unsafely.
• Safe Exit Warning (SEW): Alerts passengers if they try to open the door when a vehicle is approaching from behind.

Additional Tech:

• Kia Connect 2.0: With OTA (Over-the-Air) updates, your car’s software improves over time without visiting a service center.
• 360-Degree Camera: Includes a “Blind View Monitor” that displays a camera feed of your blind spot directly in the instrument cluster when you use the turn signal.

Powertrain Options: Choose Your Muscle (Asia-Spec)

The Seltos offers a variety of engines to suit different driving styles.

The Efficiency King (Diesel)

• Engine: 1.5L CRDi VGT
• Power: 85 kW (approx. 114 hp)
• Torque: 250 Nm
• Transmission: 6-speed iMT (Clutchless Manual) or 6-speed Automatic
• Best For: High-mileage drivers and highway cruisers who want punchy torque and great fuel economy.

The Balanced Choice (Petrol)

• Engine: Smartstream G1.5 (Naturally Aspirated)
• Power: 84.4 kW (approx. 113 hp)
• Transmission: 6-speed Manual or IVT (Intelligent Variable Transmission)
• Best For: City driving, smoothness, and refined silence.

The Enthusiast’s Pick (Turbo Petrol)

• Engine: Smartstream G1.5 T-GDi
• Power: 117.5 kW (approx. 158 hp)
• Torque: 253 Nm
• Transmission: 6-speed iMT or 7-speed DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission)
• Best For: Those who want “Badass” performance. It’s fast, responsive, and fun.

(Note: International markets will get the 1.6L Turbo and 2.0L Petrol engine, along with a Hybrid powertrain which is coming in late 2026.)

1.6-litre T-GDi Turbo (High Output)

• Up to 193 PS, 265 Nm
• 8-speed automatic

This is aimed at performance-oriented drivers.

2.0-litre Petrol

• 149 PS, 179 Nm
  A smoother, efficiency-focused engine for calm everyday driving.

AWD (Optional)

Includes:

• Multi-link rear suspension
• Terrain Mode
  This improves traction on snow, mud and sand.

Hybrid (Coming 2026)

Will include:

• Vehicle-to-Load (V2L)
• Smart Regenerative Braking 3.0

Good for efficiency-driven users and tech enthusiasts.

2026 Kia Seltos Color Options

Monotone colors include: Morning Haze, Frost Blue, Imperial Blue, Glacier White Pearl, Ivory Silver Gloss, Gravity Gray, Aurora Black Pearl, Pewter Olive, Magma Red.

X-Line exclusive: Xclusive Matte Graphite, Aurora Black Pearl.

Dual-tone options: Magma Red / Aurora Black Pearl and Glacier White Pearl / Aurora Black Pearl

This range helps buyers tune the SUV’s personality to their taste, from subtle to bold.

Next Steps for You

The all-new Seltos has effectively raised the bar. It combines the practicality of a family mover with the tech of a luxury sedan and the looks of a rugged off-roader.

• If you prioritize safety: The standard 6 Airbags and available ADAS Level 2 make it a segment leader.
• If you prioritize tech: The Trinity Display and Voice-Controlled Panoramic Sunroof are showstoppers.
• If you prioritize drive: The 1.5L Turbo with DCT is the enthusiast’s choice.

Variants and Their Key Features (India-Spec)

These variants span from basic to highly equipped.

HTE

Best for buyers wanting a well-built, modern SUV without heavy tech.
Important equipment includes:

• LED lighting for better visibility
• 10.25-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone connectivity
• Manual AC with rear vents
• All-door power windows
• Cruise control

It strikes a functional balance for city-focused users.

HTE (O)

Adds safety and convenience like:

• Connected LED tail lamps
• 60:40 split rear seats
• Driver one-touch window

Automatic variants bring:

• Drive modes
• Terrain modes (Snow, Mud, Sand)
• Electronic parking brake

These make the SUV easier to handle in varied conditions.

HTK

Adds comfort touches:

• Auto-fold mirrors
• Smart key with push-start
• Rear sunshades
• Improved wheel options

Ideal for those who want a more premium feel without stretching their budget.

HTK (O)

Introduces upgrades such as:

• Dual-pane panoramic sunroof
• Wireless charger
• Front parking sensors
• Leatherette seats

Automatic trims include ventilated seats and powered driver seat, enhancing daily usability in hot climates.

HTX

A strong value choice with:

• 12.3-inch touchscreen
• Bose sound system
• Dual-zone climate control
• Leatherette interiors with accent colors
• Ambient lighting

This is where the Seltos starts to feel truly premium.

HTX (A)

Adds advanced safety:

• ADAS Level 2 (21 features)
• Blind View Monitor
• 360-degree camera
• Smart Cruise Control

Great for buyers who travel long distances or want the latest driver assistance systems.

GTX

Sport-leaning with:

• Ice Cube LED projection headlamps
• Neon brake calipers
• Premium seats with memory function
• 10-way power driver seat

Aimed at customers who appreciate styling and performance.

GTX (A)

Fully equipped with:

• ADAS Level 2
• Trinity Panoramic Display
• Smart Cruise Control
• Extra parking assistance features

Perfect for tech-focused enthusiasts.

X-Line and X-Line (A)

Adds:

• Exclusive matte colors
• Black alloys
• Hunter Green interior theme

Suited to buyers who want the boldest-looking Seltos.

Who Is the Seltos Best Suited For?

The updated Seltos is versatile enough to appeal to several kinds of buyers:

• Daily city drivers who want comfort, smoothness and tech
• High-mileage users who prefer the diesel for efficiency
• Families who value cabin space, safety and storage
• Enthusiasts who enjoy turbo performance and DCT responsiveness
• Tech lovers who want ADAS Level 2 and connected features
• Style-focused buyers drawn to GT-Line and X-Line trims

Final Thoughts

The all-new Kia Seltos feels like more than just a facelift. It carries forward the practicality and accessible pricing the model is known for but layers it with modern design, stronger safety tech and engine choices that cover a wide range of needs.

If you’re considering a compact SUV and value a mix of technology, space, and everyday usability, this generation of the Seltos delivers a thoughtful package that’s easy to live with and, in higher trims, surprisingly advanced.