The 2026 Kia Seltos is growing up and the latest spy shots confirm what many had been hoping for – a proper SUV makeover. Gone is the rounded crossover body. In a significant departure from its predecessor, the new Seltos adopts a boxier, more upright stance clearly inspired by Kia’s flagship, the Telluride.

This is more than just a facelift. It’s a design statement to position the Seltos as a true compact SUV rather than a raised hatchback. For buyers, that means more road presence, a better view and a car that looks as bold as it is.

Design That Turns Heads

The most obvious change is up front. A flatter hood, upright nose and a wide Telluride-style grille dominates the face. Squared off headlamps with L-shaped LED DRLs give it a sharper look, while chunkier cladding around the arches and a flatter roofline makes it more SUV like. At the back, vertical tail lamps are Telluride inspired and give the Seltos a mini-flagship feel.

Inside: More Screens, More Tech

Kia isn’t holding back on the inside either. nside, the Seltos is set to receive a major tech overhaul. Spy shots reveal a new dashboard layout dominated by a seamless, panoramic display setup, with rumors of a ‘triple-screen’ configuration featuring dual 12.3-inch units and a separate touch panel for climate controls. Add in expected features like panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats and premium audio, the Seltos will be more than a match for its rivals.

Safety is also getting a boost. Expect Level 2 ADAS tech with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist and 360-degree camera. For buyers that means more confidence behind the wheel.

Under the Hood: Hybrid Joins the Party

Along with the familiar 1.5L petrol, turbo-petrol and diesel engines, Kia is introducing a 1.5L petrol-hybrid setup. This will improve fuel efficiency and position the Seltos directly against hybrid rivals like the Toyota Hyryder and Maruti Grand Vitara.

Price and Impact

With its new design and features, the 2026 Seltos will be slightly more expensive than the current model. But Kia’s value for money strategy remains intact. For compact SUV buyers, the new Seltos promises tougher looks, more tech and greener credentials – all in one package.

Conclusion

With a Telluride face and a hybrid heart, the 2026 Kia Seltos is looking to reset the compact SUV benchmark. Stylish, techy and now greener, it’s going to be one of Kia’s biggest launches yet.

FAQs

Will the 2026 Kia Seltos be hybrid?
Yes, a new 1.5L petrol-hybrid engine is coming, along with the current petrol and diesel options.

When will the new-gen Kia Seltos launch?
It will debut in late 2025 or early 2026 and go global shortly after.