Kia launched the Seltos for the 2021 model year, and the stylish little SUV earned plenty of fans thanks to its blend of features, performance from its optional turbocharged engine, available all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, and reasonable pricing. The subcompact sport utility vehicle was refreshed for the 2024 model year and rolls into 2026 with minor updates, ahead of an all-new model planned for 2027.
2026 Kia Seltos Pricing, Specs, and Release Date
- What’s New for the 2026 Kia Seltos
- Design
- Powertrain
- Interior
- Technology
- Safety
- Pricing and Release Date
- Further Research
What’s New for the 2026 Kia Seltos
The Kia Seltos LX gained a front-wheel-drive (FWD) variant for the 2026 model year, which effectively reduced its starting price. The base LX, S, and EX are available with FWD or AWD, and the top SX trim, which comes standard with a turbocharged engine, is offered only with AWD. An EX Sunroof Package is also new for 2026, featuring new 17-inch gloss-black wheels.
Design
The 2026 Kia Seltos is a handsome small crossover SUV. While not designed for hardcore off-road expeditions, its 7.3 inches of ground clearance are sufficient for the kind of rutted roads that often lead to the most desirable camping destinations. It comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, while 18-inch wheels are fitted to range-topping Seltos SX models.
Powertrain
Kia offers the 2026 Seltos with two powertrains. A 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower comes standard on LX, S, and EX models, and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) sends power to the front or, optionally, all four wheels. The SX AWD model features a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine with 190 horsepower and an eight-speed automatic transmission. While the turbocharged engine’s extra power results in quicker acceleration, the base four-cylinder and CVT deliver good fuel economy of 27 mpg in the city, 31 mpg on the highway, and 29 mpg combined for AWD models. That’s quite an improvement from the SX AWD’s figures of 24 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined.
Interior
The Seltos’ upright styling creates room inside, despite its subcompact exterior dimensions. The rear seats recline in all Seltos models, and the dual-level cargo floor offers multiple storage options. S models feature upgraded upholstery over the LX and optional heated front seats. The Seltos EX gains a power driver’s seat and standard heated front seats. Top-spec Seltos SX models offer optional ventilated front seats.
Technology
Base LX models feature a 4.2-inch instrument display and an 8-inch touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. Seltos S models get an upgraded 10.25-inch touchscreen display with built-in navigation, while EX models feature twin 10.25-inch displays arranged side-by-side on the dashboard. The Seltos SX adds an upgraded Bose audio system.
