Kia India is kicking off the 2026 automotive year with a major bang. The company has officially announced that the all-new, next-generation Kia Seltos will be launched in the Indian market on January 2, 2026. This strategic move marks the first car launch of the year, with Kia aiming to aggressively capture a larger share of the fiercely competitive Indian passenger vehicle market.
A Complete Overhaul: Design and Dimensions
The new-generation Seltos is not a mild refresh but a comprehensive overhaul. Its exterior sports a radically new and bold design language. The front profile is dominated by a fresh LED DRL signature, vertically stacked LED headlamps, and a completely redesigned radiator grille and bumpers. The muscular stance is further enhanced by new alloy wheels and redesigned LED taillights. A standout feature is the introduction of motorised flush-fitting door handles, a first for the Seltos, adding a premium, aerodynamic touch.
More than just looks, the 2026 Seltos has grown substantially in size. It is now a larger and wider vehicle compared to its predecessor, promising more cabin and boot space.
2026 Kia Seltos: Dimensional Upgrades
The SUV has become 95 mm longer and 30 mm wider, while its wheelbase has been stretched by a significant 80 mm. This should directly translate to improved legroom for passengers. Although the height is slightly reduced by 10 mm, the boot space has been increased by 14 litres, now totaling 447 litres. Furthermore, the ground clearance has been boosted by 10 mm to 200 mm, enhancing its capability over rough roads.
Tech and Comfort Take Center Stage
Inside the cabin, Kia has focused heavily on enhancing the digital and comfort experience. The dashboard now features an enhanced digital surface with a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, replacing the older 10.25-inch unit. It is complemented by a 12.3-inch fully digital driver's display. For climate control, a separate 5.0-inch touchscreen panel is integrated into the centre console.
A major comfort upgrade comes for the driver in the form of a 10-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat. This seat also includes powered lumbar support adjustment, allowing for a perfectly tailored and comfortable driving position on long journeys.
A Boon for Parking: Side Sensors Debut
Adding to its practicality and safety in urban environments, the new Seltos introduces side parking sensors. These sensors work alongside the front and rear parking aids to detect obstacles on the sides of the vehicle. This innovative feature is designed to make manoeuvring in tight spaces and parking spots considerably easier, reducing the risk of minor scrapes and dents.
Amplifying the Midsize SUV Battle
The midsize SUV segment, where the Seltos is a key player, is arguably the most hotly contested space in the Indian automotive industry. With this comprehensive update, Kia is not just launching a new car; it is raising the bar for competition. The combination of aggressive new styling, a more spacious interior, cutting-edge technology, and practical new features like side parking sensors positions the 2026 Seltos as a formidable contender.
Kia has already opened the order books for the new Seltos. Interested customers can book their vehicle both online and offline by paying a token amount of ₹25,000. All eyes are now on January 2, 2026, when the final pricing will be announced, revealing how competitively Kia has positioned this crucial new model in its portfolio.
