Kia India has officially shaken the automotive market today, January 3, 2026, with the high-voltage launch of the second-generation Kia Seltos. With an entry price of Rs 10.99 lakh (ex-showroom), the new Seltos isn’t just another update; it’s a complete transformation built on the global K3 platform. This shift makes the SUV longer, wider, and significantly more spacious than its predecessor.
The 2026 model introduces the “Digital Tiger Face” design, featuring flush-fitting door handles and a massive 2690mm wheelbase. While the exterior is sharper, the real magic happens inside the cabin with the new Trinity Panoramic Display—a segment-first setup that integrates dual 12.3-inch screens with a 5-inch climate control panel.
2026 Kia Seltos: Full Price List (Ex-Showroom)
Kia has kept the pricing extremely competitive, with only a marginal hike of approximately Rs 20,000 over the 2025 model. This aggressive positioning is clearly a move to keep the newly launched Tata Sierra at bay. Figures may shift once official updates arrive regarding city-specific RTO and insurance costs.
- Tech Line (HTE, HTK, HTX): Starts at Rs 10.99 Lakh and goes up to Rs 18.49 Lakh.
- GT Line (GTX, GTX A): Aimed at enthusiasts, priced between Rs 18.39 Lakh and Rs 19.99 Lakh.
- X-Line (A): The flagship dark-themed variant is capped at Rs 19.99 Lakh.
Bookings, Colors and Delivery Timeline
For those ready to upgrade, bookings are now officially open across 821 touchpoints in India. You can secure your unit with a token amount of Rs 25,000. Kia has confirmed that deliveries will begin from mid-January 2026, ensuring buyers get their new cars shortly after the launch hype.
The SUV is available in 12 color options, including four brand-new shades: Ivory Silver Gloss, Morning Haze, Magma Red and Frost Blue. Buyers might feel a bit overwhelmed by the 40+ variant combinations, but the mid-tier HTK (O) is already emerging as the “Value King” in early dealership inquiries.
Key Features & Safety Tech
Kia has doubled down on its “feature-rich” identity. The 2026 Seltos now boasts Level 2 ADAS with 21 autonomous features, including front collision avoidance and a 360-degree camera with a blind-view monitor. Analysts might read this as Kia’s response to the rising safety standards set by Bharat NCAP.
- Trinity Display: 12.3-inch Infotainment + 12.3-inch Cluster + 5-inch HVAC touch panel.
- Luxury: 10-way powered driver seat with memory and a new “Relaxation Mode.”
- Safety: Six airbags, ESC and all-wheel disc brakes are now standard across the range.
- Boot Space: A healthy 447 litres, perfect for family weekend trips.
Seltos vs. Tata Sierra vs. Hyundai Creta
The rivalry is tighter than ever. While the Tata Sierra starts higher at Rs 11.49 lakh, it offers a larger boot and more width. However, the Seltos undercuts the Sierra by a massive Rs 1.3 lakh at the top end. Compared to the Hyundai Creta, the Seltos offers the same engine reliability but wins on “tech-appeal” with its futuristic dashboard layout. Historically, such aggressive entry pricing has helped Kia maintain a 10-12% market share in the mid-SUV segment.
What to do now?
If you are a city commuter, the HTE (O) IVT at Rs 13.39 lakh is the smartest choice for a smooth automatic experience. However, if you’re worried about future fuel costs, keep in mind that a Petrol-Hybrid version is confirmed for a 2027 release. For now, the 1.5L Turbo Petrol with the 7-speed DCT remains the performance benchmark for this class.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is the 2026 Kia Seltos available in a 7-seater version?
No, the 2026 Seltos remains a 5-seater SUV. For a 7-seater option, you may consider the Kia Carens or the upcoming Kia Syros.
2. Does the base HTE variant have a sunroof?
No, the panoramic sunroof is introduced from the HTK (O) variant onwards. The base HTE focused on essential safety and cabin space.
3. What is the booking amount and where can I book?
The booking amount is Rs 25,000. You can book through any authorized Kia dealership or via the Kia India official website.
Disclaimer: All prices mentioned are ex-showroom India. Final “on-road” prices will vary based on your city, insurance choice, and registration charges. Please visit an authorized Kia dealership for the most accurate quote.
Written by: Pravin Kumar – Automotive Journalist – Naukri Sarkari – https://www.naukri-sarkari.com/
