For the Indian market, the 2026 Seltos will likely carry forward the familiar 1.5 litre petrol, 1.5 litre turbo petrol and 1.5 litre diesel engines. Recent reports mention power outputs of around 115 PS for the base 1.5 NA petrol, 160 PS for the turbo petrol, and about 116 PS for the diesel. Transmission options are expected to include a 6 speed manual or CVT for petrol, and manual or automatic for diesel. Alongside these, Kia plans to introduce a hybrid variant globally, combining the 1.5 litre petrol with electric assistance for better efficiency.

Inside, the 2026 Seltos is expected to get a major overhaul. Reports suggest a new dashboard layout, likely combining digital instrumentation and infotainment in a sleeker package, along with upgraded materials and better fit and finish. Comfort features could include ventilated seats, improved seat materials, dual-zone AC, a panoramic sunroof in higher trims, wireless smartphone integration and possibly wireless charging. The redesign and improved dimensions should also translate into better rear legroom and a more spacious cabin overall.

Spy images and reports show the new Seltos embraces a taller, more upright stance, following Kia’s Opposites United design language. The front end gets a bold grille and vertically stacked LED headlamps, along with sleek LED DRLs. From the side, the Seltos looks more SUV-like thanks to a boxier silhouette, distinct wheel arches and fresh alloy-wheel designs. At the rear, expect a connected light bar or DRL strip across the tailgate, giving it a more modern and striking presence.

The next gen Seltos is expected to come with a significantly upgraded safety and driver assist package. Spy reports and leaks suggest six airbags as standard, plus systems like parking sensors, tyre pressure monitoring, electronic stability control, and likely disc brakes on all wheels. On the advanced side, the 2026 model may offer Level 2 ADAS, including features such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist and possibly collision warnings. This would bring the Seltos in line with more premium SUVs in terms of safety technology.

With these upgrades, the 2026 Seltos will compete strongly against other compact and mid size SUVs like Hyundai Creta, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder and MG Astor. Its expected hybrid variant could also challenge efficiency focused rivals such as the Grand Vitara and Hyryder. With improved cabin space, stronger presence and modern features, Kia seems to be elevating the Seltos to stand shoulder to shoulder with premium value SUVs in the Indian market.