The mid-size SUV segment in India has never been more competitive. As new rivals step up the space, safety and technology levels, Kia has responded with the heavily updated 2026 Kia Seltos. This isn’t just a cosmetic update, it’s a more premium, safer and more balanced SUV built on a new platform that’s designed to top the segment.
But the big question remains: Is the new Kia Seltos 2025-26 worth buying?
Let’s break it down in detail and find out.
2026 Kia Seltos: What’s New? (Quick Overview)
- The new Kia comes with a global design language.
- Gets a longer body to improve rear seat space.
- Equipped with Level 2 ADAS safety features.
- Provides better ride comfort and steering feel.
- Premium interior quality has been upgraded.
- Gets the same reliable petrol and diesel engines.
Exterior design and road presence
The 2025-26 Kia Seltos introduces a new design language for Kia in India. At the front, it gets a bold new grille with sleek LED DRLs and a separate headlamp setup. Fortunately, Kia has eschewed connected headlamps, which helps give the car a cleaner and more premium look. LED fog lamps and six front parking sensors add to both style and convenience.
A first in the segment, the notable feature is the hydraulic bonnet, which makes under-hood access a lot easier.
Viewed from the side, the 2026 Seltos now measures around 4.4 metres in length, making it the longest SUV in its segment. It sits between the older Seltos and the Tata Harrier in terms of size. The SUV rides on 18-inch alloy wheels and offers 190 mm of ground clearance, making it apt for Indian road conditions.
At the rear, you get connected LED tail lamps, a sporty roof spoiler, flush door handles, roof rails and a manually opening tailgate. While boot space is generous, it is not significantly larger than the previous model. The spare wheel provided is a 17-inch unit.
Key exterior highlights include:
- Segment-first hydraulic bonnet
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- Flush door handles
- Panoramic sunroof
- Connected LED tail lamps
- Six front and rear parking sensors
- 190 mm ground clearance
Interior and Cabin Quality
Upgrades are immediately noticeable as soon as you step into the 2025-26 Kia Seltos. The cabin feels much more premium than before, easily rivaling SUVs that cost significantly more.
The dashboard layout feels modern, with a digital instrument cluster with decent customization options and a large touchscreen infotainment system. The user interface is simple and intuitive, though it is only available in a dark theme. Brightness could have been a bit better for sunny conditions.
You get both touch and physical controls for the air-conditioning, along with shortcut buttons and a volume knob in the button, which many users still prefer.
The infotainment UI is simple and intuitive, though limited to the dark theme. Brightness could be better in bright sunlight, but usability remains excellent.
Interior Highlights:
- Digital instrument cluster with customization
- Large touchscreen infotainment system
- Touch + physical AC controls
- Wireless charging
- Three Type-C charging ports
- Chunky, premium steering wheel
- Overall, the fit, finish, and material quality offer segment-leading.
One minor ergonomic issue is that the steering-mounted controls feel inverted due to the left-hand drive to right-hand drive conversion, but that’s something you’ll get used to over time.
Rear seat comfort and practicality
The rear seat is one of the biggest improvements in the new Seltos. Due to the increased length, three adults can sit comfortably. Knee and thigh support is also good, headroom is decent, and the seats are also reclined for extra comfort.
Amenities for rear passengers:
- Three adjustable headrests
- Rear AC vents
- Type-C charging port
- Manual sun blinds
The seatbacks feel sturdy and premium, adding to the overall upmarket feel.
Safety and ADAS (level 2) features
Safety is a key focus in the 2025-26 Seltos. It is equipped with:
- 6 airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Traction control
- Electronic stability control
Kia also offers Level 2 ADAS, which includes:
- Forward collision avoidance
- Lane keep assist
- Adaptive cruise control
- Blind spot monitoring
- Blind view monitor
- Rear cross-traffic alert
While Kia claims 21 ADAS features, some of them are divided into sub-categories. However, real-world performance is strong, especially on highways and expressways. The system feels a bit aggressive in Indian traffic but works well overall.
Engine Options & Driving Experience
The 2025 Kia Seltos continues with its proven engine lineup.
1.5L Petrol (Naturally Aspirated)
- Smooth and refined
- Ideal for city driving
- Best fuel efficiency with IVT gearbox
- Not too sporty
Best for: Daily city users and leisure drivers
1.5L Turbo Petrol
- Strong acceleration and performance
- Highway mileage similar to NA petrol
- City mileage drops to ~8–10 km/l
Best for: Buyers who enjoy spirited driving
1.5L Diesel
- Strong torque and clean power delivery
- Excellent long-distance efficiency
- Slightly noisier than older Kia diesels
Mileage:
- City (Manual): ~15–16 km/l
- Automatic: ~12–13 km/l
Best for: High-mileage users and highway commuters
Ride Quality, Handling & Steering
Kia has clearly worked on feedback from the previous Seltos:
- Softer suspension = better comfort on bad roads
- Improved steering feedback
- Confident high-speed stability
- Easy visibility and stress-free driving
Whether you’re upgrading from a hatchback or sedan, the Seltos feels easy to drive and confidence-inspiring.
Pros & Cons : Kia Seltos 2025-26
✅ Pros
✔ Premium interior quality
✔ Excellent rear seat space
✔ Level 2 ADAS safety
✔ Multiple engine & gearbox options
✔ Comfortable ride quality
✔ Strong brand reliability
❌ Cons
✘ No major engine upgrades
✘ Touchscreen brightness could be better
✘ Turbo petrol not very fuel-efficient in city
✘ Boot space not significantly larger than before
