Kia Syros EV – Expected Exterior Design 

In terms of design, the Kia Syros EV shares its overall design with the ICE-powered Syros, with only a few EV-specific changes. At the front, it retains the vertically stacked split headlamps with LED DRLs, body-coloured aero inserts, a redesigned bumper, a slim upper air intake, a larger lower air intake and thick black cladding. The raised bonnet with embossed Kia lettering has also been carried over.

In profile, the Syros EV continues with the same 17-inch alloy wheels as the ICE model. It also features roof rails, flush-fitting door handles and blacked-out A-, C- and D-pillars that create a floating roof effect. The charging port is positioned on the front-left fender. At the rear, the Syros EV retains the low-mounted tail lamps above the wheel arches, along with secondary lighting elements integrated beside the rear windscreen. The body-coloured rear bumper, black cladding and flat tailgate with an integrated spoiler remain unchanged from the ICE version.

Kia Syros EV – Expected Interior Design

Moving inside, the Syros EV is expected to carry over the ICE model’s cabin layout, including the layered dashboard, leather inserts and a two-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel with mounted controls. Ventilated seats are also likely to be available for both front and rear passengers. Expected features include a 12.3-inch infotainment system, a 12.3-inch driver’s display, a 5-inch screen for climate control, with wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, an 8-speaker Harman sound system, ambient lighting, wireless charger, panoramic sunroof, I-Pedal and much more.

Safety features expected to be included are six airbags, a 360-degree camera, front, side and rear parking sensors, electronic stability control (ESC), a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), and an electronic parking brake (EPB).

Kia Syros EV – Expected Battery Pack and Range 

There’s no info on the battery pack options. The Syros EV is expected to get the same powertrain options as the Carens Clavis EV, including 42 kWh and 51.4 kWh battery packs with a range of 420 km and 520 km, respectively. It will come paired with a single PMSM electric motor placed on the front axle.

Kia Syros EV – Expected Market Positioning and Rivals

With an expected starting price of around Rs 13 lakh (ex showroom), the Kia Syros EV is likely to be positioned as a premium compact electric SUV, slotting below the upcoming Kia Seltos EV. The brand is also expected to introduce a Battery as a Service (BaaS) ownership model, which could significantly reduce the initial purchase cost and make the Syros EV more accessible to buyers. Once launched, it will rival the Tata Nexon EV, the Mahindra XUV 3XO EV and the MG Windsor EV. 

Disclaimer: The images have been enhanced using AI for improved visibility and are for representation purposes only.

Spyshot Image Credits: Reddit r/CarsIndia

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Kia Seltos – Exterior Design

The Kia Seltos continues with its bold and modern styling inspired by the brand’s latest global SUV design language. The front fascia is dominated by a wide grille with vertical gunmetal finished elements that give the SUV a more upright appearance. On either side are box shaped LED headlamps, while the vertically stacked LED DRLs feature a distinctive lightning inspired signature that extends towards the bumper. The lower section of the bumper gets black cladding along with neatly integrated fog lamp surrounds.

In profile, the Seltos features pronounced character lines and prominent wheel arch cladding that add to its muscular stance. Flush fitting door handles give the SUV a cleaner look while also improving aerodynamics. Towards the rear, the signature window line merges into a black trim element that visually extends the rear glass into the tailgate, giving the SUV a more premium appearance.

Kia Seltos – New Variants Explained

The biggest highlight of the new top-spec GTX(O) and X Line(O) variants is the introduction of Kia’s ADAS F+ package, which now offers 28 advanced driver assistance features. These include Front Collision Avoidance Assist Junction Crossing, Front Collision Avoidance Assist Lane Change Oncoming, Front Collision Avoidance Assist Lane Change Side, Front Collision Avoidance Assist with Evasive Steering Assist, Navigation Based Smart Cruise Control Zone, Navigation Based Smart Cruise Control Curve, and Highway Driving Assist.

Apart from the enhanced safety package, both variants also receive several premium convenience features. These include the Connected Car Navigation Cockpit, Kia Connect 2.0 with more than 85 connected features, voice enabled controls supporting multiple regional languages, Digital Key, Head Up Display with windshield projection, Smart Air Purifier with AQI display, rain sensing wipers, Smart Dashcam with front and rear cameras that can be accessed through a mobile application, and one touch auto up and down function with safety protection for all four power windows.

Kia Seltos – New Variants Powertrain Options

The new GTX(O) and X Line(O) variants continue to be offered with both turbo petrol and diesel engine options. The 1.5 litre turbo petrol engine produces 160 hp and 253 Nm of torque and is paired with a seven speed dual clutch automatic transmission.

Customers opting for the diesel version get the 1.5 litre engine producing 116 hp and 250 Nm of torque. It is available with either a six speed manual gearbox or a six speed torque converter automatic transmission.

Kia Seltos – Interior Design and Features

The cabin of the Kia Seltos continues to offer a modern layout with a strong focus on technology and everyday usability. The dashboard is centred around dual 12.3 inch displays comprising the infotainment touchscreen and the fully digital instrument cluster. Below them sits a dedicated 5 inch display for the climate control system.

Kia also offers physical buttons and rotary controls for key functions, making the cabin practical to use while driving. The three spoke steering wheel, premium upholstery and well integrated technology continue to give the Seltos one of the more feature rich interiors in its segment.

Kia Seltos – Market Positioning and Rivals

With the addition of the new GTX(O) and X Line(O) variants, Kia aims to further strengthen the Seltos at the premium end of the midsize SUV segment. It will continue to rival the Hyundai Creta, Tata Sierra, Renault Duster, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Maruti Suzuki Victoris, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, Honda Elevate and MG Astor.

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Kia Carens Clavis EV – Exterior Design

On the outside, the Kia Carens Clavis EV continues with its familiar silhouette but now gains distinct styling elements depending on the variant. The newly introduced GTX trim adds a sportier touch with design highlights such as revised alloy wheels and lime coloured brake calipers that stand out. The X Line variant, on the other hand, leans towards a more rugged appearance with darker finishes and the addition of a new Dark Gun Metal shade. Standard variants also receive updated aero alloy wheels which enhance efficiency while maintaining a modern look. Overall, the design changes are subtle but effective in differentiating the variants within the range.

Kia Carens Clavis EV – Interior Design and Features 

The interior sees a stronger focus on comfort and technology. A major update is the introduction of the six seat configuration with second row captain seats. This layout is now available across trims such as HTX E, HTX, HTX Plus, GTX, GTX Plus, and X Line. The captain seats offer better personal space and improved comfort, especially for long journeys. The existing seven seat layout continues to be offered for buyers who need more seating capacity. The cabin also features a dual screen display setup, connected car technology with over eighty features, and a dual pane panoramic sunroof which adds to the premium experience.

The newly introduced GTX and GTX Plus variants bring additional features and a more engaging cabin environment. These trims include elements such as metal pedals and advanced technology features like Digital Key and battery heater functionality. The X Line variant focuses more on visual appeal with its darker theme while still offering similar feature levels. These additions ensure that buyers can choose between a sportier look or a more understated rugged design based on preference.

Kia Carens Clavis EV – Battery Pack and Range

Powering the Kia Carens Clavis EV are two battery pack options. The standard range model comes with a 42 kWh battery offering a claimed range of 404 km. The extended range version uses a larger 51.4 kWh battery with a claimed range of 490 km. The electric motor produces up to 126 kW of power with 255 Nm of torque, delivering smooth and consistent performance for city and highway driving. Fast charging capability allows the battery to charge from 10 percent to 80 percent in around 39 minutes.

Kia Carens Clavis EV – Safety Features 

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The diesel automatic range now starts at Rs 9.77 lakh, while the turbo petrol DCT range begins at Rs 9.89 lakh, ex showroom. With this update, the Sonet becomes the first vehicle in the segment to offer a diesel automatic transmission below Rs 10 lakh. It also becomes the first model in the segment to provide a seven speed dual clutch automatic below the Rs 10 lakh price point.

There are no major design changes for the 2026 model year. The update mainly focuses on expanding the variant lineup and improving accessibility to automatic powertrains. Kia has also introduced a new Magma Red exterior colour for this model year.

Kia Sonet – Exterior Design

The exterior design of the Kia Sonet remains unchanged for the 2026 model year. The SUV continues to feature the brand’s modern design language with distinctive lighting elements and a compact yet muscular stance. At the front, the Sonet is equipped with L shaped headlamps along with matching daytime running lights. LED fog lamps are also integrated into the lower bumper design.

At the rear, the SUV gets vertically oriented LED tail lamps which are connected by a full width LED light bar. This design element visually increases the width of the vehicle and gives it a more premium appearance. In terms of dimensions, the Sonet measures 3995 mm in length, which places it in the sub four metre category. It has a width of 1790 mm and a height of 1610 mm. The wheelbase stands at 2500 mm. Ground clearance is rated at 205 mm, which is suitable for Indian road conditions.

Kia Sonet – Interior And Features

The new automatic variants of the Sonet are positioned between the HTE option and HTK Plus option trims. The overall cabin layout remains unchanged and continues to offer a modern design with a focus on technology and comfort.

Higher variants of the Kia Sonet are equipped with a dual screen setup which includes a touchscreen infotainment system and a fully digital instrument cluster. The SUV also offers features such as an electric sunroof, a ten way power adjustable driver seat, and a seven speaker Bose sound system. These features contribute to the premium positioning of the model within its segment.

Kia also offers a strong safety and connectivity package in the Sonet. The SUV is equipped with ten Level 1 ADAS features, fifteen standard safety features including six airbags, and seventeen connected technology functions through the brand’s connected car platform.

Kia Sonet – New Variants

For the diesel powertrain with the 1.5 litre engine and six speed automatic transmission, the lineup starts with the HTE Option variant priced at Rs 9,77,900. This is followed by the HTK Option variant priced at Rs 10,72,900. The HTK Plus variant is priced at Rs 11,08,900, while the HTK Plus Option variant is priced at Rs 11,56,900.

For the 1.0 litre turbo petrol engine paired with the seven speed dual clutch transmission, the HTK Option variant is priced at Rs 9,89,900. The higher HTK Plus Option variant is priced at Rs 10,83,900. All prices are ex showroom.

Kia Sonet – Powertrain

The Kia Sonet continues to offer multiple engine options in its lineup. The newly introduced automatic variants are available with the 1.5 litre turbo diesel engine and the 1.0 litre turbo petrol engine. The diesel unit produces 115 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque and is paired with a six speed automatic transmission that uses a torque converter setup. The turbo petrol automatic variants are powered by a 1.0 litre turbo petrol engine that produces 118 horsepower and 172 Nm of torque. This engine is paired with a seven speed dual clutch transmission.

These engines are offered specifically for the newly introduced automatic variants. Apart from these options, the Sonet lineup also continues to offer a 1.2 litre naturally aspirated petrol engine that produces 83 horsepower and 115 Nm of torque in the standard range.

Kia Sonet – Market Positioning And Rivals

The Kia Sonet competes in the sub four metre SUV segment in India. Its primary rivals include the Hyundai Venue, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Mahindra XUV 3XO, Tata Nexon, and the Skoda Kylaq.

“We have been closely listening to evolving customer needs, particularly the growing preference for the convenience of automatic driving in everyday conditions. With the model year 2026 update, we are expanding our automatic line-up with Diesel Automatic and Turbo Petrol 7DCT options at highly competitive price points, enabling more customers to experience the ease of automatic mobility while further strengthening Sonet’s leadership in the segment,” said Mr. Atul Sood, Senior Vice-President, Sales & Marketing, Kia India

With the addition of these new automatic variants, Kia aims to strengthen the Sonet’s value proposition and attract more buyers looking for automatic transmission options in the segment.

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At present, Kia’s electric portfolio in India includes the Kia Carens Clavis EV, followed by the Kia EV6 and the flagship Kia EV9. The Syros EV will sit below these models in terms of pricing and positioning. It will serve as an entry point into Kia’s electric range. The most recent launch from Kia in 2026 was the new generation Seltos, and the Syros EV is expected to further strengthen the brand’s presence in the mass market electric vehicle segment.

Kia Syros EV – Expected Exterior Design

Although the test vehicle was heavily camouflaged, several design elements were visible. The overall silhouette appears very similar to the internal combustion version of the Syros. The upright stance and boxy proportions have been retained. The distinctive kink around the window line is also noticeable, suggesting that Kia has maintained design continuity between the petrol and electric versions.

One of the key indicators confirming that this is an electric vehicle is the presence of a charging port mounted on the front fender. This differentiates it from the internal combustion model. The spy images also reveal LED headlamps along with a visible daytime running light signature through the camouflage, similar to what is seen on the ICE version. The Syros EV appears to ride on 17 inch alloy wheels that look similar to those offered on the standard model.

Another important observation is the presence of what appears to be an ADAS module mounted on the vehicle. This suggests that the Syros EV could be equipped with advanced driver assistance systems. However, it is important to note that all these details can only be confirmed officially at the time of launch.

Kia Syros EV – Expected Interior and Features

The spy shots did not reveal the cabin of the Kia Syros EV. However, it is expected to closely mirror the layout and features of the internal combustion Syros. The regular model offers a dual 12.3 inch screen setup, with one screen serving as the digital instrument cluster and the other functioning as the infotainment touchscreen. A similar arrangement is likely to be carried over to the electric version.

Other expected features include a touch based climate control panel, a panoramic sunroof, a wireless phone charger, and ventilated seats for both front and rear passengers. The vehicle is also likely to offer connected car technology along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Multiple Type C charging ports are also expected to be part of the equipment list.

Kia Syros EV – Expected Safety Features

As noted earlier, the visible ADAS module suggests that the Kia Syros EV may offer advanced driver assistance features. In addition, the standard Syros comes equipped with features such as a 360 degree camera and six airbags. These features are expected to be carried over to the electric version as well. The internal combustion Syros has achieved a five star rating under Bharat NCAP. While official crash test results for the electric version will only be available when the car is launched and tested, similar structural performance can be anticipated.

Kia Syros EV- Expected Battery Pack and Range

The Syros EV is expected to share its underpinnings with the Hyundai Inster EV, which is based on the K1 platform. The Inster EV is offered globally with 42 kWh and 49 kWh battery pack options, delivering a claimed maximum range of up to 369 kilometres. Although Kia has not confirmed specifications, similar battery configurations may be offered on the Syros EV. A front wheel drive setup is expected.

Upon launch, the Kia Syros EV could be priced between Rs 11 lakh and Rs 16 lakh. It is likely to compete with models such as the Tata Nexon EV, the Mahindra XUV 3XO EV, and the MG Windsor EV. With this model, Kia aims to strengthen its foothold in the growing entry level electric vehicle segment in India.

Spy Image Credit: RasacL on Reddit

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The Kia Syros, which sits in the highly competitive sub-compact SUV segment, continues to be offered with multiple powertrain options and a feature spread that targets urban and semi-urban buyers. With the addition of the HTK EX variant, Kia is looking to address customers who seek a better-equipped model than the entry-level trims but do not necessarily want to move into higher, more expensive variants.

Kia Syros – Exterior Design

The exterior design of the Kia Syros remains unchanged with the introduction of the HTK EX variant. The compact SUV continues to follow Kia’s contemporary design language, featuring a bold front fascia, upright stance and compact proportions.

Key styling elements include the brand’s signature grille, sculpted bumper design and neatly integrated headlamps. The side profile is defined by pronounced wheel arches and a relatively flat beltline, contributing to a robust visual stance. At the rear, the Kia Syros carries a clean tailgate layout with modern lighting elements integrated into the bumper design.

The HTK EX variant introduces new cosmetic enhancements over the lower trims such as LED DRLs, LED headlamps and tailamps, 16-inch alloy wheels and streamlined door handles.

Kia Syros – Interior Design and Features

Inside, the Kia Syros continues with a practical and straightforward cabin layout. The dashboard design is modern, with clearly laid-out controls and a functional centre console. The HTK EX variant adds to the feature list by offering a more comprehensive equipment package compared to lower trims. This includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, sunroof, rear view camera with sensors, electrically adjustable and foldable ORVMs, steering-mounted controls, multiple USB charging points.

Seating and cabin space remain unchanged, with the Kia Syros offering seating for five occupants and a boot capacity of 465 liters.

Kia Syros – Powertrain Options

The Kia Syros is offered with 2 engine engine options, catering to a wide range of buyers. These include petrol and diesel powertrains, paired with manual and automatic transmission choices depending on the variant. The 3-cylinder 1.0 turb-petro engine puts out 120 hp and 170 Nm of torque while the 1.5 turbo-diesel puts out 114 hp and 250 Nm of torque.

The HTK EX variant does not introduce any mechanical changes and continues with the same powertrain options available on the existing trims but only with a 6-speed manual transmission and it skips out on offering an automatic.

Kia Syros – HTK EX Price and Positioning

The newly introduced HTK EX variant is positioned between the lower and mid-spec trims of the Kia Syros lineup. Pricing has been structured to make this variant more accessible while offering additional features over the base versions.

By introducing the HTK EX, Kia is attempting to bridge the gap for customers who may have found the higher variants priced out of reach. The pricing strategy reflects a broader trend in the segment, where manufacturers are increasingly adding intermediary trims to capture a wider customer base.

Prices vary based on powertrain choice, ₹9.89 lakh for the petrol version and ₹10.64 lakh for the diesel version.

Kia Syros – Safety and Technology

Safety features on the Kia Syros remain consistent with segment standards. The vehicle continues to offer essential safety equipment including multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors and electronic stability aids. The Syros has also received a 5 star Bharat NCAP safety rating.

The HTK EX trim adds to the overall sense of value by offering a balanced mix of safety and convenience features without moving into premium territory. This ensures the Kia Syros remains competitive in a segment where safety expectations are steadily rising.

Kia Syros – Market Positioning and Rivals

The Kia Syros competes in one of the most crowded segments in the Indian automotive market. Its primary rivals include the Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Mahindra XUV 3XO, Skoda Kylaq and its sibling the Kia Sonet.

With the introduction of the HTK EX variant, Kia is strengthening the Syros’ position by targeting buyers who prioritise features and brand familiarity while remaining budget-conscious. The strategy is not about redefining the segment, but about staying relevant amid aggressive pricing and frequent updates from competitors.

“At Kia, customer insights guide every product decision we make. The introduction of the HTK (EX) trim for Syros reflects our constant focus on responding to customer feedback and delivering meaningful value,” said Mr. Atul Sood, Senior Vice President and National Head, Sales and Marketing, Kia India. “By expanding the lineup at an attractive price point, we aim to make our SUV more accessible while continuing to offer the features and quality that customers expect from Kia,” he added.

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For decades, global automotive players have viewed and, in some cases continue to view India as an evolving, price-sensitive market dominated by the “small” and “cheap” car. One global manufacturer, however, chose to think differently. In 2019, they took a giant leap of faith by launching a mid-size SUV loaded with features and technology, betting that Indian buyers were ready for more. That bet paid off. Big time.

The car went on to sell over 560,000 units in just six years. By now, you’ve probably figured out that the car I’m talking about is the Kia Seltos. These numbers clearly highlight just how crucial the Seltos has been for Kia India not just as a product, but as the cornerstone that shaped the brand’s image and influenced customer perception across Kia’s entire lineup.

Six years later, Kia has decided to give its blue-eyed boy a complete makeover, ushering in an all-new generation that will play a defining role in shaping the brand’s future in India. So, what’s changed and does the new Seltos still have what it takes? Let’s find out.

2^nd Gen Kia Seltos – Exterior Design

Start with the design and it is immediately clear that Kia has avoided a “playing it safe” design approach, and that decision works in the Seltos’ favour. This is not an evolution or a mild redesign. The new generation Seltos is a full reinvention. Park it next to the outgoing model and the resemblance is almost non-existent. The softer, more rounded surfaces of the old car are gone, replaced by a bolder, more upright and far more imposing design.

The front end sets the tone for the entire redesign. The grille is taller and squarer, finished with intricate vertical gunmetal elements that give the Seltos a much more serious face. Boxy LED headlamps sit on either side, with the vertical DRLs extending outward features a distinctive lightning bolt style signature. Combined with the wider stance, the Seltos looks closer in design to Kia’s larger global SUVs like the Telluride. The new Seltos feels like a scaled down global SUV.

From the side, the change in proportions becomes clearer. The new Seltos has grown by 95 mm in length and 30 mm in width and now measures 4,460 mm long, 1,830 mm wide and 1,635 mm tall. The wheelbase has been stretched to 2,690 mm, which is an 80 mm increase, and this visually gives the car a more planted stance while also promising gains in interior space, which we will get to later. The stronger shoulder line, more upright profile and chunkier cladding reinforce the sense that this is a more substantial SUV than before, moving away from a crossover look to something more solid and confident.

Kia has also increased the ground clearance to 200 mm, a figure that places it right in the thick of the segment and signals a more SUV first approach, though we will come back to how that translates in the real world later. That said, not every design decision lands perfectly. On a few variants, Kia has added neon coloured brake callipers, which feels like pushing things a bit too far. I have always welcomed newer and bolder design ideas, but neon callipers on a family SUV come across as more gimmicky than tasteful.

At the rear, the transformation is completed convincingly. The number plate has been repositioned lower onto the bumper, which cleans up the tailgate and makes the overall design look neater. The standout element, though, is the new inverted L themed LED lighting signature that stretches across the width of the rear, giving the Seltos a wider stance. Combined with the revised tailgate and cleaner bumper treatment, it brings the Seltos in line with Kia’s latest global design direction.

2^nd Gen Kia Seltos – Interior Design

Once you’re inside it is obvious that the biggest leap forward has happened inside. The cabin no longer feels like an upgrade of the old Seltos but a clean break from it, with a layout that is more contemporary, more premium and far more tech focused.

The dashboard adopts a layered design dominated by a wide digital layout. A 12.3 inch touchscreen handles infotainment duties, a matching 12.3 inch screen sits behind the steering wheel for instrumentation, and a separate 5.0 inch display manages climate controls. Even with this strong digital presence, Kia has resisted the temptation to go fully touch dependent, retaining physical buttons and knobs for key functions, which is something I genuinely appreciate. At a time when many manufacturers are deleting buttons altogether, having tactile controls you can operate without taking your eyes off the road still matters.

There is a clear improvement in perceived quality as well. The steering wheel is completely new, moving to a three spoke design and incorporating drive and traction mode selectors. On higher trims, the feature list is long and genuinely impressive, with ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, wireless phone charging, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a powered driver’s seat with memory, rear sunshades, dual tone upholstery, a 360-degree camera, an eight speaker Bose sound system, 64 colour ambient lighting, over the air updates, connected car tech and Level 2 ADAS.

The suspension setup on the new Seltos is a clear step forward over the older model and feels noticeably more polished in everyday driving. The new setup offers a nice balance between comfort and control. At city speeds, while there is still a hint of firmness over sharp bumps, the overall ride feels more settled and less nervous than before. As speeds rise, the improvements become more evident, with the SUV staying planted and composed even on uneven surfaces.

Out on the highway, the Seltos inspires confidence. It handles long undulations and broken patches with maturity, rarely feeling unsettled, and remains stable even with the larger 18-inch wheels. Through corners, body movements are well controlled and the suspension works in harmony with the chassis to deliver predictable handling. Overall, the updated suspension makes the new Seltos feel more comfortable, more stable, and better-rounded than its predecessor, especially for long-distance driving.

Complementing these engines is a significantly improved chassis setup. Suspension revisions have resulted in better control over body movements, with body roll now well contained through corners. The Seltos feels more composed when pushed, inspiring greater confidence than the older model. Direction changes are handled cleanly, and overall stability has improved, making it feel more secure and predictable, especially at higher speeds. Together, the refined engines and sorted handling give the Seltos facelift a more mature and capable driving character.

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Just days after the launch of the much-anticipated Tata Sierra, Kia India has just revealed the next-generation Kia Seltos. Built on the brand’s new K3 platform, the revamped Seltos debuts a completely redesigned exterior, a refreshed cabin layout and a host of modern, tech-rich features. The new Seltos continues to compete with the Hyundai Creta, Maruti Victoris, Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, Volkswagen  Taigun, Skoda Kushaq and also newly launched Tata Sierra.

Interested customers of Tata Sierra can book the SUV online or by visiting their nearest Tata dealership from December 16, 2025, and deliveries will begin from January 15, 2026. The bookings for the new Seltos are already underway, booking amount is set at Rs 25,000. Price announcement will happen on January 2, 2026, with deliveries expected to begin from mid-January. In this article, let’s compare the new-gen Seltos with the Tata Sierra in terms of features, dimensions, specs, powertrain options and more.

2026 Kia Seltos vs Tata Sierra: Variants and Pricing

The new Sierra is offered in seven variants, namely – Smart Plus, Pure, Pure Plus, Adventure, Adventure Plus, Accomplished and Accomplished Plus. The company has announced prices for all the variants except the top spec Accomplished and Accomplished Plus trims. Prices for the new Sierra range from Rs 11.49 lakh to Rs 18.49 lakh for the Adventure Plus trim (both prices ex-showroom).

The prices for the new Kia Seltos have not been announced yet, but it’s offered with Tech Line, GT Line and X-Line trims. The Tech Line forms the core of the lineup with variants such as HTE, HTE (O), HTK, HTK (O), HTX and HTX (A). Sitting above them, the GT Line is offered in GTX and GTX (A) versions and adds a richer equipment list along with sportier styling cues. The X-Line package, characterised by its darker, more aggressive aesthetic remains exclusive to the GT Line trims.

2026 Kia Seltos vs Tata Sierra – Dimensions 

Comparing dimensions next, the Sierra measures 4340 mm in length, 1841 mm in width, 1715 mm in height and a wheelbase of 2730 mm. It has ground clearance of 205 mm, boot space of 622 litres and wheel size ranges from 17 to 19 inches. The Kia Seltos measures 4460 mm in length, 1830 mm in width, 1635 mm in height and a wheelbase of 2690 mm. It has a boot space of 447 litres and wheel size ranges from 16 to 18 inches.

2026 Kia Seltos vs Tata Sierra – Powertrain Options 

The new Sierra is offered with three engine options – a 1.5-litre Kryotec turbo diesel with 118 hp of power and 280 nm torque. Another two engines are the newly developed 1.5-litre NA petrol with 106 hp power and 145 nm torque and a 1.5-litre Hyperion turbo petrol engine with 160 hp power and 260 nm torque. Tata Motors also confirmed that the company will soon launch the AWD model.

The new Seltos too is offered with three engine options – a 1.5-litre NA petrol with 115hp/144Nm that’s offered with either a 6-speed MT or a CVT gearbox and a 1.5-litre turbo petrol with 160hp/253 nm that’s offered with an IMT or a 7-speed DCT. Another engine is a 1.5-litre turbo diesel with 116 hp/250 nm that gets a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic.

2026 Kia Seltos vs Tata Sierra – Features and Safety

In terms of features, the Sierra comes packed with four-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated logo and touch-based controls, iRA connected car technology with snapdragon chip and 5G connectivity, OTA updates, 12.3-inch passenger and centre screen display, 10.5-inch digital instrument cluster, 12 speaker JBL sound system with a sound bar and Dolby Atmos, 18 JBL sound modes, Arcade appstore, HypAR HUD display, dual zone automatic climate control, panoramic sunroof, mood lighting, a wireless charging pad, rear window sunshades, a 360-degree camera.

It also gets Level 2 ADAS, front parking sensors, six airbags, LED connected taillamps with headlamps with turbo boost function for high beam, an electronic parking brake with auto hold, connected car tech, ventilated and powered driver front seats with memory function, powered tailgate with gesture function, adjustable thigh support, boss mode, rear sunshade, two step reclining rear seats, EPB with auto hold, rear AC vents with Type-C chargers, cooled glove box and more.

Moving inside the new Kia Seltos, the cabin undergoes a major transformation while still echoing some familiar Kia design cues. The centrepiece is a panoramic digital layout made up of a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a matching 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a dedicated 5.0-inch climate-control display. The centre console retains a practical spread of physical buttons and rotary controls, but the steering wheel is all-new, sporting a three-spoke design with integrated drive and traction mode buttons.

Feature-wise, it gets ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, wireless charging, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a powered driver’s seat with memory, rear sunshades, dual-tone leatherette upholstery, a 360-degree camera, 64-colour ambient lighting, an eight-speaker Bose audio system, OTA updates, connected-car functions and Level 2 ADAS. Safety kit features include six airbags, ESC, all-wheel disc brakes, hill-start assist, ISOFIX mounts, tyre-pressure monitoring and a standard rear-view camera forming part of the equipment roster.

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New-Gen Kia Seltos – Exterior Design

The new Seltos has grown in every measurable direction. The SUV now stretches 4,460mm end to end, sits on a 2,690mm wheelbase, measures 1,830mm wide, and stands 1,635mm tall. The updated proportions, combined with the K3 platform, give it a more planted stance and improved interior space.

The styling direction takes clear cues from Kia’s newer global SUVs. The reworked front end is dominated by a broad, intricately detailed grille with vertical gunmetal elements, giving the SUV a more assertive face. Boxy LED headlamps sit on either side, and the DRLs extend vertically, enhanced by a distinctive lightning-bolt signature near the outer edges. The redesigned bumper incorporates black cladding and neatly sculpted surrounds for the fog lamps, adding toughness without clutter.

Along the flanks, stronger character lines and chunkier wheel-arch cladding give the Seltos a more muscular posture. Kia has switched to flush-fitting door handles for a cleaner profile. The familiar kink in the window line returns but now blends into a blacked-out trim piece that visually stretches the rear glass into the tailgate.

At the back, the number plate has shifted downward to the bumper, cleaning up the tailgate’s design. The standout element here is the new inverted L-themed LED signature that spans across the rear, giving the SUV a distinctive nighttime identity.

New-Gen Kia Seltos – Interior Design

Step inside and the change is even more dramatic. The dashboard layout has been completely modernised and is built around a widescreen digital setup: a 12.3-inch infotainment display, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a separate 5.0-inch panel for climate controls. Despite the tech-heavy approach, Kia has kept a healthy mix of physical buttons and knobs for essential functions. The steering wheel is brand-new as well, featuring a three-spoke look with drive and traction mode selectors.

New-Gen Kia Seltos – Features and Safety 

The equipment list, especially on the higher trims, is extensive. Highlights include ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, wireless smartphone charging, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a memory function for the powered driver’s seat, rear sunshades, dual-tone upholstery, a 360-degree camera, Bose’s eight-speaker audio setup, 64-colour ambient lighting, OTA updates, connected-car capabilities and Level 2 ADAS.

Standard safety features include six airbags, electronic stability control, disc brakes on all wheels, hill-start assist, ISOFIX child-seat mounts, a tyre-pressure monitoring system and a rear-view camera.

New-Gen Kia Seltos – Powertrain Options

Despite riding on the new K3 platform, the powertrain lineup is unchanged. The Seltos continues with three engines:

• 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol (115hp, 144Nm) paired with a 6-speed manual or CVT
• 1.5-litre turbo-petrol (160hp, 253Nm) available with an iMT or 7-speed DCT
• 1.5-litre turbo-diesel (116hp, 250Nm) offered with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed torque converter automatic

New-Gen Kia Seltos – Variants 

As before, the variant spread continues across three broad lines -Tech Line, GT Line and X-Line. The Tech Line remains the volume driver with six trims: HTE, HTE(O), HTK, HTK(O), HTX and HTX(A). Above this sits the GT Line, offered in GTX and GTX(A) versions, which adds a sportier appearance and a richer equipment list. The X-Line package, known for its darkened styling elements, remains exclusive to the GT Line range.

New-Gen Kia Seltos – Market Positioning and Rivals

Reservations have been open since December 11, with a booking fee of ₹25,000. Customers can secure their SUV online or by visiting any authorised Kia dealership. The company will announce prices on January 2, 2026, and deliveries are scheduled to begin around mid-January.

The new-gen Kia Seltos is positioned as a premium, feature-rich midsize SUV aimed at buyers who want bold design, advanced tech in a competitive segment. Upon launch it will challenge established rivals like the Hyundai Creta, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara & Victoris, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, Honda Elevate, MG Astor and the newest kid on the block, the Tata Sierra.

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