2026 Kia Seltos New - FAQs and Their Answers

Kia is preparing the next-gen Seltos SUV that has been caught testing numerous times on the Indian roads. The 2026 Kia Seltos will come with significant design and interior changes along with some mechanical upgrades. Moreover, it will be more premium and feature-loaded compared to the existing model. Here, we answer the most frequently asked questions about the upcoming next-gen Kia Seltos - 

What is the expected launch date of the new-gen 2026 Kia Seltos?

Kia is yet to make an official announcement on the launch of the new Seltos; however, few media reports claim that it could debut sometime in late 2025. The Korean media reports that the next-gen Kia Seltos will debut in the first quarter of 2026. A possible debut in January 2026 can't be ignored. 

What New Features will the 2026 Kia Seltos have?

The next-gen Seltos will be more premium and feature-loaded compared to the existing model. It will come with LEVEL 2 ADAS tech with features like adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane assist, blind spot monitoring and others. Similar to the Syros, the new Seltos will get parking sensors all-around the body including the side sensors. 

The cabin is expected to receive a new dashboard layout and new central console. It will have a large 30-inch display that incorporates dual 12.3-inch displays for the infotainment and instrument console along with a 5-inch screen for the climate control system. It is expected to get a new two-spoke steering wheel, wireless charging pad for front and rear occupants, multi-colour ambient lighting, ventilated front and rear seats, rear seats with reclining and sliding functions, electrically adjustable driver and co-driver seats, a premium sound system. 

Will there be any changes to the engine options in the 2026 Kia Seltos?

The next-gen Kia Seltos will retain the existing powertrain options including a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder naturally-aspirated petrol, a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder turbo petrol and a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbo diesel. All engines will be offered with manual and automatic gearbox options (CVT, DCT and torque convertor). The turbo petrol with DCT will also come with paddle shifters.

Is Kia Launching a hybrid version of the Seltos?

Yes, Kia is testing the next-gen Seltos hybrid on the foreign soil. It is reported that the Seltos could be the first Kia to feature hybrid engine in India. The 2026 Kia Seltos is likely to be equipped with a 141bhp, 1.6-litre hybrid powertrain that is also available in Kona Hybrid and the Niro. 

Kia is also developing a dedicated electronic all-time four-wheel-drive (E-AWD) system for the Seltos hybrid. This hybrid system will be aimed at the European market.

What platform will the 2026 Kia Seltos be built on?

The next-generation Kia Seltos is most likely to be built on the modified version of the existing platform, which also underpins the Hyundai Creta. This platform is compatible with multiple powertrains including petrol, diesel, petrol-hybrid and electric.

Will the next-gen Seltos have an electric version?

Hyundai has already introduced the electric derivative of the Creta SUV in India. The second-gen Seltos will use the same platform that underpins the Hyundai's counterpart. Kia is yet to make an official announcement on the launch of the electric Seltos. Meanwhile, the Korean brand is preparing an electric MPV based on the Carens. This EV is expected to use the Creta's battery pack and electric motor. 

Will the interior of the new-gen Kia Seltos be updated?

Yes, the next-gen Seltos will come with an all-new interior with inspiration from new Syros and bigger Kia models including Carnival and EV9. The SUV will have bigger connected screen that incorporates bigger touchscreen, digital instrument console and a display for climate control system. Moreover, the SUV will be equipped with more features compared to the existing model.

What type of hybrid system will the new Kia Seltos Hybrid use?

The Seltos hybrid is likely to source its powertrain with the Hyundai Kona Hybrid. The SUV could feature a 1.6L 4-cylinder petrol engine combined with an electric motor, offering a combined power and torque output of 139hp and 265Nm, respectively. This engine is paired to a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. Kia is also testing the dedicated all-time four-wheel-drive (E-AWD) system for the Seltos hybrid.

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