2026 Kia Seltos Overview: Trims, Specs & Features

Expanding on its core attributes, the 2026 Kia Seltos presents a compelling package for today's discerning buyer. It offers a choice between two distinct engine options: a smooth and efficient 2.0-liter four-cylinder for balanced daily driving, and a potent 1.6-liter turbocharged engine for those who desire more spirited performance. The cabin is a showcase of modern innovation, featuring an available tech-forward design with large, immersive digital displays that create a seamless and futuristic command center. Furthermore, every Seltos is equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard driver-assistance features, underscoring Kia's commitment to safety and peace of mind.

What's New for the 2026 Model Year

Following a significant and well-received refresh in recent years, the 2026 Kia Seltos is primarily a carryover model, a testament to the strength and modernity of its current design and feature set. The key strengths that continue from the previous successful iteration include its assertive and updated exterior styling, characterized by revised front and rear fascias and signature LED lighting that commands attention. The powerful 190-horsepower turbocharged engine option also remains a cornerstone of the lineup, offering robust performance that stands out in the segment. For the 2026 model year, Kia has introduced a subtle yet stylish refinement: the EX trim's available Sunroof Package now includes a new 17-inch gloss black wheel design, adding a touch of exclusive flair to this popular configuration.

Leasing a 2026 Kia Seltos from Mike Kelly Kia is an intelligent way to experience this exceptional compact SUV. One of the most significant advantages of leasing is the potential for lower monthly payments compared to traditional financing, which can allow you to step into a higher trim level - like the comfort-oriented EX or the performance-packed SX - while staying comfortably within your budget. Leasing also provides the exciting opportunity to drive a brand-new vehicle every few years. This means you will consistently have access to the latest advancements in automotive technology, safety systems, and fuel efficiency that Kia has to offer. Furthermore, leasing offers invaluable peace of mind. A typical lease term aligns perfectly with Kia's industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile warranty program, meaning that most potential repairs are covered for the duration of your lease, minimizing unexpected out-of-pocket expenses. Contact the finance experts at Mike Kelly Kia today to explore personalized lease options and discover how easily you can get behind the wheel of a new 2026 Seltos.

The 2026 Kia Seltos is offered in a thoughtfully curated range of four distinct trim levels: LX, S, EX, and SX. This structure allows customers to easily identify and choose the perfect combination of features, performance, and value that precisely matches their individual needs and preferences, from essential capability to turbocharged excitement. It is important to note that the X-Line trim, which was available in previous model years, is not part of the official 2026 Seltos lineup, as Kia has streamlined its offerings to provide a clearer choice between the core models.

LX

The Seltos LX serves as the smart and accessible entry point to the lineup, delivering exceptional value without compromising on core features. It comes standard with the efficient 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower, paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT). While front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard, the confidence of torque-vectoring all-wheel drive (AWD) is readily available. Inside, the LX features a user-friendly 8-inch touchscreen display that includes the highly convenient wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration. Crucially, the LX establishes a strong safety foundation with standard Kia Drive Wise technologies, including Auto Emergency Braking Technology with Car, Pedestrian, and Cyclist Detection, as well as Lane Keeping and Following Technology.

S

The S trim represents a stylish and technological step up, designed for those who want enhanced aesthetics and connectivity. The exterior is distinguished by the addition of functional roof rails and 17-inch alloy wheels with a machined finish. Inside, the infotainment system is upgraded to a large 10.25-inch touchscreen with integrated navigation and Kia Connect services. Convenience is elevated with the inclusion of a Smart Key with Push Button Start and Remote Start. The S trim also significantly expands the safety suite, adding critical systems like Blind-Spot Collision Warning and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, making it a well-rounded and compelling package.

EX

For those who prioritize premium comfort and amenities, the Seltos EX is the ideal choice. The seating is upgraded to premium SynTex trim, which is both durable and sophisticated, and the front seats are heated for cold-weather comfort. The driver benefits from a 10-way power-adjustable seat with 2-way power lumbar support, ensuring an optimal driving position. For 2026, the available EX Sunroof Package is made even more appealing with the inclusion of new, exclusive 17-inch gloss black alloy wheels, which perfectly complement the power sunroof.

SX

Positioned at the pinnacle of the lineup, the Seltos SX is the ultimate expression of performance, technology, and style. It is the only trim to feature the standard 1.6-liter turbocharged GDI engine, which delivers an impressive 190 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque through a responsive 8-speed automatic transmission. The SX boasts a full-fledged premium experience with an 18-inch machined-finish alloy wheels, a powerful Bose® premium audio system with sound-connected mood lighting, and a stunning 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster that creates a true panoramic display. It also comes equipped with the most comprehensive suite of Kia Drive Wise technologies, adding advanced features like Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go and Highway Driving Assist.

The 2026 Kia Seltos presents a bold and contemporary exterior design that confidently stands out from the crowd. Its assertive presence begins at the front with the signature Kia grille, which is intricately detailed and flanked by sleek, modern headlight designs that create a distinctive face. The vehicle's advanced lighting technology is a key design element, with available LED projector headlights on the SX trim providing superior illumination, and signature LED taillights creating an unmistakable and premium look, both day and night. The body of the Seltos features sculpted lines and a confident stance, giving it a dynamic and athletic profile that suggests motion even when standing still. The top-tier SX trim asserts its performance credentials with larger, more aggressive 18-inch machined-finish alloy wheels. Practical yet stylish elements like roof rails, which come standard on the S, EX, and SX trims, add to the SUV's rugged appeal. For those seeking maximum visual impact, optional two-tone roof color schemes are available on the S and SX trims, offering a custom look that enhances the Seltos's modern aesthetic.

The 2026 Kia Seltos offers two distinct powertrain choices, allowing drivers to prioritize either efficiency or exhilarating performance to suit their driving style.

Powertrain Choices

The standard engine, found in the LX, S, and EX trims, is a dependable 2.0-liter 4-cylinder Multi-Port Injection (MPI) engine. It produces a capable 147 horsepower and 132 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine is paired with a smooth and efficient Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), a combination that is expertly optimized for refined daily driving and excellent fuel economy. For those who crave a more dynamic and responsive driving experience, the SX trim comes standard with a potent 1.6-liter 4-cylinder Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) turbocharged engine. This advanced powertrain delivers a robust 190 horsepower and a substantial 195 lb.-ft. of torque across a broad rev range.

Handling and Capability

The Seltos is engineered to deliver confident handling and a comfortable ride, making it an agile and easy-to-manage vehicle in urban environments while remaining stable and composed during long highway journeys. Its true capability is unlocked with the available torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. This intelligent system constantly monitors road conditions and distributes power to the wheels with the most grip, enhancing traction and control in inclement weather. A key feature that sets the Seltos apart is its standard center-locking differential on AWD models. When activated by the driver, this feature splits power $50/50$ between the front and rear axles, providing maximum low-speed traction in challenging conditions such as deep snow or mud.

Safety is a cornerstone of the 2026 Kia Seltos, which is equipped with the comprehensive "Kia Drive Wise" suite of advanced driver-assistance systems designed to provide confidence and peace of mind on every journey. Standard features include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Car, Pedestrian, and Cyclist Detection, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, and Driver Attention Warning. As you move up the trim ladder, the Seltos offers an even more extensive array of advanced systems. The S, EX, and SX trims all come standard with Blind-Spot Collision Warning and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist. The top-tier SX trim is equipped with the most advanced technologies in the lineup, featuring Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go and Highway Driving Assist.

The cabin of the 2026 Kia Seltos is a hub of advanced technology and seamless connectivity, designed to be both intuitive and impressive. The centerpiece of the interior is the available dual 10.25-inch panoramic display. This feature, standard on the EX and SX trims, merges a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster (exclusive to the SX) with a 10.25-inch central touchscreen with navigation (standard on S, EX, and SX) to create a single, expansive, and high-tech command center. The LX trim comes standard with a responsive 8-inch touchscreen that features the convenience of wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. An important distinction is that the S, EX, and SX trims, equipped with the larger 10.25-inch navigation screen, utilize a wired connection for Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. For a truly premium auditory experience, the SX trim comes standard with a Bose® premium audio system featuring 8 speakers and dynamic, sound-connected mood lighting that pulses with the music.

The interior of the 2026 Kia Seltos is thoughtfully designed to be a spacious, comfortable, and highly versatile environment for both drivers and passengers.

Interior Design

Despite its classification as a compact SUV, the Seltos offers a surprisingly generous amount of interior space, with ample headroom and legroom for occupants in both the front and rear seats, making it comfortable for long journeys. The cabin is appointed with high-quality materials that elevate the driving experience. The LX trim features durable and comfortable cloth seats, while the EX and SX trims are upgraded to premium SynTex seating trim.

Practical Features and Versatility

The Seltos excels in practicality, with a flexible interior designed to adapt to your changing needs. The standard $60/40$ split-folding and reclining rear seats are a key feature, allowing for a versatile combination of passenger seating and cargo hauling. Convenience is woven throughout the cabin with available features like a Smart Power Liftgate (optional on the EX AWD trim) for hands-free access to the cargo area.

The 2026 Kia Seltos stands out as a complete and compelling package in the compact SUV class. It successfully blends head-turning modern style, a choice between efficient and powerful turbocharged performance, a cabin filled with advanced, user-friendly technology, a comprehensive suite of safety features, and a practical, versatile interior ready for any adventure. The best way to truly appreciate everything the 2026 Kia Seltos has to offer is to experience it firsthand. We invite you to visit us at Mike Kelly Kia to explore the different trim levels and discover the quality and innovation built into every model. Our knowledgeable and friendly sales team is here to answer all your questions and help you find the perfect Seltos that fits your lifestyle and budget.