Explorer

New Kia Seltos 2026 Petrol Review: Bigger, Smarter, And Better Than Before?

The new Seltos when seen up close for the first time looks massive because it is. It has grown quite clearly and the length hits you along with the longer wheelbase.

Show Quick Read
Key points generated by AI, verified by newsroom
  • New Kia Seltos boasts redesigned aggressive exterior and larger dimensions.
  • Updated interior features layered dashboard, enhanced tech, and improved space.
  • Petrol automatic offers refined engine, smoother ride, and easy handling.

The Seltos had put Kia on the map when the first generation model was introduced in 2019 but a lot has happened since then while Kia has also brought out the next gen model which is all new. By all new we really mean it with a new platform, new exterior and interior but with competition being sky high, can the new Seltos now bring back the same magic? Here is our first drive of the petrol automatic.


New Kia Seltos 2026 Petrol Review: Bigger, Smarter, And Better Than Before?

How does it look?

The new Seltos when seen up close for the first time looks massive because it is. It has grown quite clearly and the length hits you along with the longer wheelbase. It also looks more aggressive with the huge grille along with the vertical lighting. The sharp cuts and the lighting plus the EV like alloys further adds to the looks. It certainly gets your attention while build quality is excellent too.


New Kia Seltos 2026 Petrol Review: Bigger, Smarter, And Better Than Before?

What about the interior?

Inside, there is a jump in quality and technology with a layered dashboard along with a nice mix of physical buttons as well as screens. There are three though like the Syros although the new steering wheel is different along with buttons for drive and traction modes on it. The screen is crisp and easy to use with a clean layout. The 360 degree camera too has a nice quality display while the audio system scores top marks too.


New Kia Seltos 2026 Petrol Review: Bigger, Smarter, And Better Than Before?

Features list includes cooled seats, powered driver seat, ADAS, panoramic sunroof, 8 speaker audio system, dual zone climate control, 360 degree camera plus more. However, it misses out on some key features like a powered tailgate, boss mode or even rear ventilated seats which are there on the Syros. Space has increased for sure at the rear and it's more comfortable for three passengers too despite a central tunnel. Even the boot space has increased.

What about the driving experience?

The Seltos has a different platform now and that brings key changes in the ride and handling department. The low speed ride is better now and is more comfortable too. The larger steering maybe bulky in size but is easy to use along with being light. It does feel a bit bigger now but continues to be an easy going comfortable SUV. The petrol engine is a 1.5l turbo with 160bhp and we drive the DCT automatic version.


New Kia Seltos 2026 Petrol Review: Bigger, Smarter, And Better Than Before?

The engine is refined, smooth and linear with no turbo spike. It's quick too but at low speeds the gearbox has a slightly jerky drive but smoothens up. Drive it fast and the new Seltos is more softer now but it works because it's now a better rounded SUV. Efficiency is around 10-11 kmpl. 

Should you buy it?

The new Seltos has grown up, looks bigger and the interiors are a jump too. Yes, it lacks some features but it builds on the strengths of the previous Seltos and is an SUV which ticks many boxes. Petrol DCT will be the choice and it will appeal to those looking for a size, tech and more space.


New Kia Seltos 2026 Petrol Review: Bigger, Smarter, And Better Than Before?

About the author Somnath Chatterjee

Somnath Chatterjee has been working as an automobile journalist for the better part of a decade and is still in love with four wheels. Prefers being behind the wheel of a new car rather than a keyboard. He contributes expert Auto articles and guides for ABP Live English.

Read More

Top Headlines

Can JSW Motors Challenge Toyota, Mahindra In India’s SUV Battle?
Can JSW Motors Challenge Toyota, Mahindra In India’s SUV Battle?
Hyundai Ioniq 5 Facelift First Look: Now With More Range And Features
Hyundai Ioniq 5 Facelift First Look: Now With More Range And Features
Honda ZR-V Hybrid SUV Launch Soon With Near 1,000 km Range
Honda ZR-V Hybrid SUV Launch Soon With Near 1,000 km Range
Too Hot For A Convertible? BMW M440i Switches To Coupe In 18 Seconds
Too Hot For A Convertible? BMW M440i Switches To Coupe In 18 Seconds

Videos

Politics: Suvendu Adhikari Demands CRPF Deployment, Claims Attack During Booth Visit
Election Update: Allegations vs Denial as Bengal Poll Tension Escalates
Breaking: Suvendu Adhikari Claims Attack Near Kalighat, Urges EC Action
Flash: Heated Political Atmosphere in South 24 Parganas During Voting
LATEST BREAKING: TMC-BJP Clash Erupts in Kalighat as Suvendu Adhikari Faces Protest Crowd

Photo Gallery

25°C
New Delhi
Rain: 100mm
Humidity: 97%
Wind: WNW 47km/h
See Today's Weather
powered by
Accu Weather
Embed widget