Seltos 2025 vs Seltos 2026: What’s Actually New in the All-New Seltos?
- Digital MKT Lexicon Group
- Dec 23, 2025
- 3 min read
The Kia Seltos has been one of India’s most popular mid-size SUVs since its debut, thanks to its bold styling, feature-rich cabin, and strong engine options. But with the arrival of the all new Seltos, buyers are asking an important question:
How different is it really from the outgoing model?
If you’re confused between Seltos 2025 and Seltos 2026, this detailed comparison breaks down what has genuinely changed—design, technology, safety, performance, and overall value—so you can make an informed decision.
A Quick Look at the Evolution
While the Kia Seltos 2025 already felt modern and well-equipped, the Kia Seltos 2026 represents more than just a cosmetic refresh. Kia has clearly aimed to push the Seltos into a more premium, tech-forward space, responding to increasing competition and rising customer expectations.
The result is a vehicle that feels familiar in character but significantly upgraded in execution.
Exterior Design: Familiar Shape, Sharper Presence
At first glance, the silhouette remains recognisably Seltos—but look closer and the differences become clear.
The Seltos 2025 featured a sporty yet safe design language, appealing to a broad audience. In contrast, the Seltos 2026 adopts Kia’s latest global design cues. The front fascia looks more aggressive, with redesigned LED headlamps, a bolder grille, and cleaner lines that give the SUV a more premium stance.
At the rear, the new connected LED tail lamps and revised bumper design make the all new Seltos look wider and more planted on the road. New alloy wheel designs and refreshed colour options further enhance its visual appeal.
Verdict: The design isn’t revolutionary, but it’s noticeably more sophisticated and future-ready in the 2026 version.
Interior & Technology: The Biggest Leap Forward
This is where the difference between Seltos 2025 vs Seltos 2026 becomes impossible to ignore.
The earlier model already offered a comfortable cabin with a digital instrument cluster and touchscreen infotainment system. However, the Kia Seltos 2026 raises the bar with its Command-Centric Trinity Panoramic Display, which integrates the driver’s display and infotainment into one seamless, wide visual interface.
Other notable interior upgrades include:
Dual-pane panoramic sunroof
Head-Up Display (HUD)
Enhanced ambient lighting
Premium upholstery with improved fit and finish
The cabin now feels more driver-focused and tech-oriented, aligning the Seltos with more premium SUVs in the segment.
Verdict: If interior technology matters to you, the Seltos 2026 is a clear winner.
Safety & ADAS: A Game-Changing Upgrade
Safety is one of the most important areas where the all new Seltos pulls ahead.
The Seltos 2025 came well-equipped with six airbags, ESC, hill-assist, and other essential safety features. The Kia Seltos 2026, however, introduces Level-2 ADAS, marking a major step forward.
Key advanced safety features include:
Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go
Lane keep assist and lane following assist
Forward collision avoidance
Blind-view monitoring
Parking collision avoidance
These systems are designed to reduce driver fatigue and enhance safety during both city commutes and highway drives.
Verdict: From a safety perspective, the jump from Seltos 2025 to Seltos 2026 is substantial and meaningful.
Engine & Performance: Familiar but Refined
Mechanically, Kia has chosen evolution over experimentation.
Both models offer similar engine options, including petrol and diesel powertrains, with manual and automatic gearbox choices. The Kia Seltos 2026 benefits from improved tuning, smoother transmission response, and enhanced driving modes on select variants.
While performance figures remain largely comparable, real-world drivability feels more polished in the newer model—especially in traffic and during highway cruising.
Verdict: No dramatic performance jump, but noticeable refinement in the Seltos 2026.
Driving Experience & Comfort
Ride comfort has always been a strength of the Seltos, and the new version builds on that foundation. Improved suspension tuning, better cabin insulation, and enhanced steering feedback make the all new Seltos feel more composed across varying road conditions.
Long drives feel less tiring, and city driving benefits from improved visibility and driver-assist features.
Value & Buyer Perspective
So, is the upgrade worth it?
Choose Seltos 2025 if | You’re getting a strong deal, prefer proven features, and don’t need advanced driver assistance systems. |
Choose Seltos 2026 if | You want the latest technology, enhanced safety, premium interiors, and better long-term value. |
For buyers planning to keep their SUV for several years, the Kia Seltos 2026 feels more future-proof.
Final Verdict: What’s Actually New?
The Kia Seltos 2026 sets a new benchmark in the mid-size SUV segment with its bold design, advanced technology, enhanced safety features, and refined driving experience. Whether you’re upgrading from an earlier model or stepping into the Seltos for the first time, the all new Seltos offers a future-ready package that perfectly balances style, comfort, and confidence on Indian roads.
To experience it firsthand, visit us at any one of our two showrooms
For enquiries, test drives, or to book your Kia Seltos 2026, call us at
Comments