Production-Spec New-Gen Kia Seltos 2026 Spied with Unique DRLs and Final Body Panels

Kia is actively testing the new generation Seltos SUV in India as well in foreign soil. The SUV will be launched in multiple markets, including India, America and Korea in 2026. The 2026 Kia Seltos has been spotted with production body panels, revealing its final design. In fact, the latest test mule hasn’t been fully covered with several exposed body parts and design elements. 

Production-Spec 2026 Kia Seltos Details

Most interesting part is the availability of orange colour DRLs complementing the uniquely styled headlamps in square-shape. Going by the spy images, it is visible that the SUV is unlikely to get the connected LED DRLs. 

The SUV has two part grille, which seems separated by a broad bar. It is also confirmed that the new-gen Seltos will come with 4-6 front parking sensors, while the RADAR module for ADAS is placed on the lower bumper. The SUV gets a boxier design and appears slightly bigger than the existing model. 

It comes with a slightly straighter front overhang, a flatter roof with prominent roof rails, bigger glass areas in rectangular shape, ORVMs with integrated blinkers and newly designed alloys. At the back, the SUV is likely to get newly styled tail-lamps with LED inserts and aggressive lower bumper that has strong black cladding. It gets a new tailgate that houses a 360-degree camera, while the licence plate is moved to lower bumper. 

New Seltos Interior Details

The interior details of the new Seltos are yet to be revealed, but it is expected to receive significant changes. The SUV is likely to get a more premium and feature-loaded cabin. It could get a newly designed dashboard layout dominated by a 30-inch Trinity Display. 

Dual 12.3-inch displays5-inch touchscreen for climate controlLeatherette seatsPanoramic sunroofFront and rear ventilated seatsElectrically adjustable driver and co-driver seatsDual-zone climate controlSliding and reclining function for the rear seatsLEVEL 2 ADAS tech360-degree surround view cameraFront and rear parking sensors

Hybrid Confirmed

Kia has officially announced that the next-gen Seltos will come with a hybrid powertrain. The global-spec model is expected to get a new 1.6-litre GDR hybrid powertrain with an e-AWD option. On the other hand, the India-spec model is likely to get a 1.5L naturally-aspirated petrol engine based hybrid tech. 

Other engine options are likely to include the existing 1.5-litre, naturally-aspirated petrol, a 1.5-litre turbo petrol and a 1.5-litre turbo diesel. Gearbox choices to include a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed torque converter automatic (diesel), a CVT with petrol and a 7-speed DCT with a turbo petrol. 

Launch Timeline and Competition

The new-gen Kia Seltos is most likely to be launched in the Indian market in early 2026, most probably in Q1. The hybrid version is rumoured to be launched in Q2, 2026 with production expected to commence in April. The SUV will take on the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder and the upcoming Tata Sierra and Renault Duster.

Also See - New Toyota SUV Likely to Slot Between Taisor and Hyryder - Based on Maruti Escudo

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