2026 Kia Seltos Base HTE, HTE (O) Explained - Best Variants!

Kia will announce the prices of the new-gen Seltos on January 2, 2026. The company has already released the 2026 Kia Seltos brochure, which reveals the variant-wise features and engine options on offer. Going by the brochure details, we find the base HTE variant of the Seltos a great option to drive home. Its base variant is one of the most feature-loaded in its category, and has all the necessary features you want in a car. 

Key Features of Seltos HTE

The base variant gets LED lighting system, including LED headlamps, LED daytime running lamps, LED tail-lamps and LED high mount stop lamp. This model rides on 16-inch steel wheels. It comes with front and rear skid plates with silver finish, sharp fin antenna, integrated rear spoiler, dual-tone smoky black and grey interiors, height adjustable driver’s seat, and a multi-functional Double D-Cut steering. 

Even the base variant has a 10.25-inch HD touchscreen infotainment unit with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and 6-speakers sound system. It gets 12-inch LCD Cluster with 4.2-inch digital MID, 4 C-Type USB charger, keyless entry & central locking, all-4 power windows, and cruise control with manual speed limit assist. The base model gets manual air conditioner, rear AC vents, electrically adjustable ORVMs, and others. 

If you opt for the Seltos HTE (O) variant, you will have LED connected tail-lights, black roof rails, semi-leatherette seats, 60:40 split rear seats with rear centre armrest, height adjustable headrests for all 5 seats, driver window one touch Auto Up/Down with safety, and driver and passenger setback pocket. 

The Seltos HTE (O) automatic gets electric parking brake with auto hold, traction control modes (Sand/Mud/Snow), paddle shifters, and 3 drive modes - Eco, Normal and Sport. 

Engine Choices

The base HTE is available with 1.5L NA petrol and a 1.5L diesel engine options. While the former is good for 114bhp and 144Nm, the diesel engine produces 114bhp and 250Nm of torque. Both paired to a 6-speed manual gearbox. 

For automatic option, you can opt for the HTE (O) variant of the 2026 Kia Seltos. This engine is available with 4 different gearbox choices. The 1.5L NA is available with 6-speed manual and a CVT automatic, while the diesel is available with a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque converter automatic. It also gets a 157bhp/253NM, 1.5L turbo petrol engine with a 6-speed iMT (Intelligent Manual Transmission) option. 

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