Kia just unveiled the all-new Seltos today with bookings now open across India. If you’re planning to buy this SUV, here’s everything confirmed: prices drop on January 2, 2026, deliveries start mid-January, and booking amount is Rs. 25,000. The new model arrives bigger, tech-loaded, and safer than before.
How Much Bigger Is The New Seltos?
The 2026 Seltos now measures 4,460 mm long and 1,830 mm wide (making it the longest SUV in its segment this week). I noticed the wheelbase stretches to 2,690 mm, giving you more legroom than the outgoing version. Both height and width have increased too, so expect better interior space for families.
Outside, you get Kia’s Digital Tiger Face with a black glossy grille, projection LED headlamps with dynamic welcome lights, and connected LED tail lamps. The 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels come with neon-painted brake calipers (a sporty touch you don’t see often in this price range).
What New Features Should You Expect Inside?
| Specification | New Kia Seltos 2026 |
|---|---|
| Length | 4,460 mm |
| Width | 1,830 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,690 mm |
| Booking Amount | Rs. 25,000 |
| Price Announcement | January 2, 2026 |
| Delivery Start | Mid-January 2026 |
| Engine Options | 1.5L Petrol, 1.5L Turbo Petrol, 1.5L Diesel |
| Safety Rating | Level 2 ADAS with 21 features |
| Display Size | 30-inch panoramic |
The cabin feels premium now with a massive 30-inch panoramic display combining your instrument cluster and touchscreen. This is fresh tech for midsize SUVs in India. The black-and-white interior uses leatherette seats with ventilation up front.
Here’s what stands out: the driver seat offers 10-way power adjustment with memory function synced to your mirrors. There’s a relaxation mode and automatic seat retraction when you enter or exit. Rear passengers get split-recline seats, dual Type-C ports, and sunshade curtains under the dual-pane panoramic sunroof.
For entertainment, Kia installed a Bose 8-speaker system with 64-colour ambient lighting. You also get wireless smartphone charging, proximity-based keyless entry, and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The updated Kia Connect 2.0 system now handles remote functions, live vehicle tracking, and over-the-air updates (meaning software upgrades happen without dealership visits).
How Safe Is This New Generation?
Standard equipment includes six airbags, ESC, ABS, hill-start assist, and rear occupant alert.
The Level 2 ADAS package brings 21 autonomous safety features—forward collision warning with auto-braking, lane keeping assist, smart cruise control with stop-and-go capability, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera. These driver-assist systems work well for highway driving and tight parking situations.
Which Engine and Transmission Should You Choose?
Kia retained three proven engines: a 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol (115 PS/144 Nm), a 1.5L turbocharged petrol (160 PS/253 Nm), and a 1.5L diesel (116 PS/250 Nm). Transmission options vary by engine—you can pick from manual, intelligent manual, CVT, 7-speed DCT, or 6-speed automatic.
Four trim levels arrive: HTE, HTK, HTX, and GTX. Option packs include Convenience, Premium, ADAS, and the exclusive X-Line styling package. The GTX(A) and X-Line(A) variants get the most advanced features.
My Take on Value and Competition
The new Seltos positions itself above competitors with segment-leading dimensions and tech like that 30-inch screen. I think the K3 platform and comprehensive ADAS suite justify any price increase. However, you should wait for January 2 pricing before deciding (Hyundai Creta and other rivals might respond with offers).
Also read: Kia Seltos Hybrid: What You Need To Know Before It Launches
Should You Book Now?
If you want early delivery by mid-January, booking today makes sense. The Rs. 25,000 amount is refundable at most dealerships. I’d recommend waiting for the price announcement if you’re budget-conscious, but test drive the outgoing model now to understand what’s improved.
The 2026 Seltos delivers meaningful upgrades in size, safety, and technology. Combined with Kia’s warranty and service network, this SUV should appeal to families seeking premium features without luxury price tags.
Monojit Paul is the founder and editor of techautohub.com. He covers India’s automotive industry, focusing on new launches, cars, bikes, and market trends.
