UPDATE: The highly anticipated new Kia Seltos is set to hit the market in 2026, boasting significant upgrades and a hybrid option for the first time. Unveiled this week in South Korea, the revamped subcompact SUV aims to combine affordability with enhanced features, promising to excite both new and returning customers.
The new Seltos has grown in size, measuring 174.4 inches in length, which is 1.8 inches longer than the outgoing model. The vehicle also features a longer wheelbase of 105.9 inches and increased width of 72 inches, while height decreases slightly by 0.6 inches to create a sportier profile. With these changes, Kia aims to provide more passenger and cargo space, addressing customer demands for improved connectivity and safety features.
Kia confirmed that the starting price for the new Seltos will be $23,690, keeping it competitive against rivals like the Chevrolet Trailblazer and Honda HR-V. The automaker has ambitious sales targets, expecting to sell 430,000 units annually, built on Kia’s new K3 platform and assembled in India, South Korea, and China.
In a notable twist, the new Seltos will introduce a hybrid variant, although it won’t be available until later in 2026. While there are no plans for an electric version, Kia is betting on the hybrid to attract environmentally conscious consumers. The Seltos will be equipped with three gasoline engine options producing between 149 and 193 horsepower, ensuring a variety of performance choices.
Kia’s latest model will also feature advanced technology, including a ChatGPT-powered virtual assistant for navigation and various controls. This AI integration marks a significant step in enhancing user experience, making it easier for drivers to access information and manage vehicle functions. The Seltos will come with a panoramic sunroof, a range of tire sizes from 16 to 19 inches, and an impressive 12-inch head-up display.
The exterior design of the new Seltos echoes the popular Telluride and EV9 models, with a broad grille and distinctive running lights that enhance its size and appeal. Inside, the vehicle will feature dual 12.3-inch screens flanking a 5-inch touch screen for seamless control over most functions, complemented by a selection of physical buttons for essential operations like volume adjustment.
Kia’s commitment to innovation extends to improved interior acoustics, with enhanced insulation and thicker glass to minimize noise. The Seltos will offer both front- and all-wheel drive options, catering to diverse driving conditions and preferences. With these enhancements, Kia is poised to redefine the subcompact SUV market, aiming to replicate the success of its larger models.
As the launch date approaches, further details on fuel economy and specific features will be released. Kia enthusiasts and potential buyers should stay tuned for more updates as the countdown to the 2026 release begins.
This latest iteration of the Seltos represents a strategic move for Kia, focusing on expanding its footprint in various global markets, including Europe for the first time. With a blend of style, performance, and cutting-edge technology, the 2026 Kia Seltos is undoubtedly a model to watch in the coming years.
Stay updated with the latest developments as they unfold!
