2026 Kia Seltos Spied

THE NEW SELTOS IS HUGE. AND IT MIGHT GET A GEARBOX CHANGE NO ONE EXPECTED.

The 2026 Kia Seltos Spied images are finally here, and they reveal a massive upgrade.

Kia is not just giving the Seltos a facelift; this is a brand-new generation. With a global debut set for December 10, the new SUV has been spotted testing in India, looking bigger, badder, and boxier.

But the biggest news isn’t just the looks. It’s what might be changing under the hood. Here is our simple expert analysis of the new Seltos.

Also Read –Is a Rugged New Kia Telluride Variant Coming to the LA Auto Show?

1. THE DESIGN: IT’S A “BABY TELLURIDE” NOW

The current Seltos is sporty. The new one? It’s a tank. The spy shots show a much more upright and boxy design, inspired by Kia’s massive Telluride SUV.

Bigger Dimensions: The new model (codenamed SP3i) looks longer and wider. This solves the current model’s rear-seat space issue.
New Face: Expect a flatter grille and a cleaner, more “American SUV” look.
New Wheels: The side profile reveals a fresh alloy wheel design that adds to the premium look.

2. THE INTERIOR: THE “TRIPLE SCREEN” REVOLUTION

Kia is borrowing the dashboard from its expensive EVs. The spy shots hint at a new Curved Dual-Screen Setup, likely similar to the new Hyundai Venue or even better—a triple-screen layout.

Screen 1: Digital Driver Display.
Screen 2: Infotainment Touchscreen.
Screen 3: A dedicated display for climate controls (like the Kia EV6).

This will likely be the most high-tech cabin in the segment, easily beating the Creta.

3. THE DIESEL SURPRISE: A NEW 7-SPEED AUTOMATIC?

This is the most interesting rumour for enthusiasts. Currently, the 1.5L Diesel Seltos uses a 6-speed Automatic (Torque Converter). Reports suggest the new 2026 model might upgrade to a 7-speed Automatic.

Why does this matter? A 7-speed box usually offers better mileage and smoother highway cruising than a 6-speed. If true, this would make the Seltos Diesel the best highway cruiser in its class.

Engine Options Expected:

1.5L NA Petrol: 115 PS
1.5L Turbo Petrol: 160 PS
1.5L Diesel: 116 PS (possibly with the new 7AT)

4. THE HYBRID WILDCARD

Internationally, the new Seltos is getting a Hybrid powertrain (1.6L Petrol + Electric Motor). While not confirmed for India immediately, this is Kia’s only answer to the Maruti Grand Vitara Hybrid. If Kia brings this 141 hp hybrid engine to India, it changes the game completely.

OUR EXPERT VERDICT

The 2026 Kia Seltos is growing up. It’s moving from a “sporty compact” to a “proper family SUV” size.

If Kia launches this with the triple-screen dash and the rumored 7-speed diesel auto, it will likely reclaim the Number 1 spot from the Hyundai Creta.

Launch Timeline: Global debut on Dec 10. India launch in early 2026.

What do you think? Do you like the new “boxy” look or the old sporty one? Share your thoughts below.

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