New-gen Kia Seltos Global Debut Set For December 10, India Launch Planned For 2026

The next-generation Kia Seltos is finally heading toward its global debut, which is now confirmed for December 10 in South Korea. Although the world premiere is just weeks away the new SUV will not appear in Indian showrooms before 2026. Test units have already been spotted on roads in both countries giving a clear idea of the changes coming in the updated model

Catch the latest launches and updates on CarOnPhone!

New-gen Kia Seltos Exterior- What The Spy Shots Reveal

Spy images of the new SUV have shown that this is a full generational change, not a mild upgrade

What’s Changing On The Outside

• The upcoming model gets new square-like LED headlamp clusters
• A fresh grille design and vertical LED DRLs, similar to the global Telluride
• A more upright and boxy profile, which makes the SUV look bigger
• Slight growth in size is expected based on earlier test sightings
• Larger rear quarter glass gives it a more spacious design feel
• New alloy wheel designs have been noted on multiple test units
• Some models were seen with dual-tone ORVMs, showing more premium detailing

Rear End Changes

International spy shots show major updates at the back-

• Sharp C shaped LED tail lamps
• Diagonal turn indicators placed in the cluster
• A central bulge on the tailgate, likely to connect both tail lamps with a light bar

New-gen Kia Seltos Interior- Major Cabin Shift Expected

Early cabin leaks indicate a much more modern and cleaner layout compared to the current model

Cabin Design Observations

• The interior theme appears inspired by the Kia Syros SUV
• Seat and upholstery patterns resemble the EV9 and Syros
• Though the dashboard was not fully uncovered, reports suggest a triple-screen setup

Possible Screen Layout

Just like the Syros, the new SUV may get-

• Two 12.3 inch screens (instrument cluster + infotainment)
• A 5 inch climate control display placed below

This setup points toward a minimal and connected cabin design with fewer physical buttons

Expected Features On The New-gen Kia Seltos

While official features are still under wraps, several items are expected based on Kia’s usual equipment list and spy images

Possible Comfort and Tech Features

• Dual 12.3 inch screens (cluster + infotainment)
• 5-inch climate control display
• Connected car tech, likely limited to higher variants but kept updated as per Kia’s new initiative
• Panoramic sunroof
• Dual-zone climate control with rear vents
• Wireless phone charger
• Powered front seats with ventilation
• Premium audio system

Expected Safety Add-Ons

• Multiple airbags
• 360 degree camera
• Electronic parking brake with auto hold
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
• Level-2 ADAS, featuring-
• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane-keep assist
• Forward collision warning

These upgrades show that the brand is aiming to make the SUV more future ready

New-gen Kia Seltos Engine And Powertrain Options

The India bound version is expected to keep the same engines currently offered

Expected Engine Choices

1.5 liter petrol

• Power- 115 PS
• Torque- 144 Nm
• Gearboxes- 6 speed manual / CVT

1.5 liter turbo petrol

• Power- 160 PS
• Torque- 253 Nm
• Gearboxes- 6 speed iMT / 7-speed DCT

1.5 liter diesel

• Power- 116 PS
• Torque- 250 Nm
• Gearboxes- 6 speed manual / 6-speed automatic

Possible Additions

There are reports of a hybrid powertrain being under study. If it arrives, it could stand against strong hybrid rivals like the Maruti Grand Vitara and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder.
There is also talk of an optional all wheel drive system for the new model though this is not confirmed for India

Driving Modes

The SUV may continue offering multiple drive and traction modes, similar to the current model

New-gen Kia Seltos India Launch Timeline And Expected Price

The second-gen SUV is expected to reach India in 2026. Prices will likely increase over the current range of Rs 10.79 lakh to Rs 19.81 lakh (ex showroom) due to new features and design upgrades

The new model will continue to compete with-

• Maruti Grand Vitara
• Hyundai Creta
• Honda Elevate
• Toyota Hyryder
• Volkswagen Taigun
• Skoda Kushaq
• Upcoming Tata Sierra