The Indian compact SUV segment just got more exciting. Kia has officially launched the new 2026 Kia Seltos in India, with prices starting at Rs 10.99 lakh and going up to Rs 19.99 lakh (ex-showroom). At a time when competition is fiercer than ever, Kia’s timing and pricing strategy appear spot-on.
The second-generation Seltos doesn’t try to reinvent itself entirely. Instead, it builds on what already worked well while adding meaningful upgrades in design, features, and technology. The result is a more mature, premium-feeling SUV that still stays accessible to a wide range of buyers.
Pricing and engine options explained simply
The new Seltos is offered with three familiar powertrains: a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol, a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol, and a 1.5-litre diesel engine. Prices for the NA petrol start at Rs 10.99 lakh, while turbo-petrol variants begin at Rs 12.89 lakh. Diesel buyers can enter at Rs 12.59 lakh, making it a strong option for those prioritising torque and efficiency.
Manual variants range up to Rs 18.29 lakh, while automatic versions stretch from Rs 13.39 lakh to the top-end Rs 19.99 lakh. An important change this time is that Kia is offering the NA petrol engine across higher trims, though the top variants are available only with automatic transmissions.
Bookings, delivery and variants
Bookings for the new Seltos are already open at Kia dealerships and online for Rs 25,000. Deliveries are expected to begin from mid-January 2026. With 821 touchpoints in 369 cities, Kia’s network ensures accessibility nationwide.
The SUV is available in eight main variants: HTE, HTK, HTX and GTX, each paired with optional (O) or ADAS-enabled (A) trims. Buyers looking for a sportier appearance can opt for the X-Line package, which adds unique styling elements and an exclusive Matte Graphite colour.
Design, interiors and features
Visually, the Seltos looks bolder and more commanding. The new grille, LED lighting animations and muscular bumper give it strong road presence. Inside, the cabin feels more family-friendly and tech-focused, highlighted by a three-screen layout, dual 12.3-inch displays, and a dedicated touchscreen for climate controls.
Feature highlights include ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, a Bose audio system, 64-colour ambient lighting, connected-car tech, and Level-2 ADAS with a 360-degree camera. Safety has also been enhanced with six airbags and front- and rear-facing dashcams.
Where it stands in the segment
The Seltos enters a crowded battlefield, facing rivals like the Hyundai Creta, Maruti Vitara Brezza, Tata Sierra, Volkswagen Taigun, and Skoda Kushaq. Despite the competition, Kia’s sharp pricing and feature-loaded approach make the new Seltos a compelling choice.
In summary, the 2026 Kia Seltos feels like a well-thought-out upgrade rather than a risky overhaul. It offers strong value, a wide range of variants, and a premium experience that should appeal to both new buyers and existing Seltos fans.