The midsize SUV segment in India just got a lot more crowded. After months of teasers and spy shots, Kia India has finally pulled the trigger, launching the second-generation 2026 Seltos at an aggressive starting price of ₹10.99 lakh (ex-showroom).
But with the Hyundai Creta dominating the charts and the new Tata Sierra breathing down its neck, the real question for buyers isn't just about the price—it's about whether this "New-Gen" tag is just marketing fluff or a genuine reason to skip the rivals.
Why You Should Actually Care (Beyond the Brochure)
If you’ve been following the Seltos, you know it was starting to feel a bit cramped compared to the newer competition. Kia has fixed that by moving the 2026 model to the global K3 platform.
Here is the "Human" breakdown of what that actually means for you:
The "Knee" Test: It's 95mm longer now. In real-world terms, that means the person sitting behind a 6-foot driver won't be begging for a break after an hour.
The "Street Presence" Factor: It's 30mm wider and looks boxier. It no longer looks like a "large hatchback"; it finally has that "Baby Telluride" SUV stance that Indian buyers crave.
The "Trinity" Screen: While everyone is doing dual screens, Kia added a third 5-inch panel just for climate controls. Is it a gimmick? Maybe. Does it look like a ₹40 lakh car inside? Absolutely.
2026 Kia Seltos Price List: The "Sweet Spot"
Kia is launching with introductory pricing, which usually means these rates will jump by ₹30k–₹50k within three months.
| Variant | Starting Price | Key Features | Best For... |
| HTE | ₹10.99 Lakh | 12" Digital Cluster, 10.25" Screen, 6 Airbags | Budget-conscious status. |
| HTK | ₹13.09 Lakh | 17" Alloys (AT), Wireless CP/AA, Auto-fold ORVMs | The Practical Choice. |
| HTK (O) | ₹14.19 Lakh | Panoramic Sunroof, LED personal lamps | The "Sunroof-on-a-budget" buyer. |
| HTX | ₹15.59 Lakh | Dual-zone Climate, Bose Speakers, 12.3" Touchscreen | The Value King (Premium). |
| GTX / X-Line | ₹18.39 Lakh | Level 2 ADAS, 360° Camera, 160PS Turbo Engine | Enthusiasts & Tech-lovers. |
The Gamble: Engines vs. Tech
Kia made a bold move by not changing the engines. You still get the 1.5L Petrol, 1.5L Turbo, and the 1.5L Diesel.
Our Take: Some might call it lazy, but we think it’s smart. These engines are proven. Instead of chasing unproven hybrids, Kia spent that money on Level 2 ADAS (with 21 features) and motorized flush door handles. They are betting that Indian buyers prefer "Cool Gadgets" over "Complicated Engines"—and historically, Kia is usually right.
Should You Book One Today?
Bookings are open for ₹25,000. If you are looking for a midsize SUV, the 2026 Seltos is currently the most "future-proof" cabin you can buy for under ₹20 lakh.
However, if you prioritize heavy-duty off-roading or high-mileage hybrid efficiency, the Maruti Grand Vitara or the upcoming Mahindra models might still hold the edge.
MotorBrief Verdict: The 2026 Seltos isn't trying to be a different car; it's trying to be a more "grown-up" version of the car India already loved. At ₹10.99 lakh, the entry barrier is low enough to make the competition very nervous.