2026 Kia Seltos HTE: Features, Pricing, and Engine Options Detailed

The 2026 Kia Seltos has arrived with significant updates, including revised styling, a refreshed interior, and a new variant lineup. The entry-level HTE variant now offers more features and a modern design, making it a strong option for buyers seeking value in the compact SUV segment. The Seltos HTE is available with both petrol and diesel engine options, and its pricing starts at Rs 10.99 lakh, going up to Rs 12.59 lakh (ex-showroom).

Key Highlights

• 2026 Kia Seltos HTE priced from Rs 10.99 lakh to Rs 12.59 lakh ex showroom
• Base HTE variant features LED headlamps 10.25 inch touchscreen and six airbags
• Available with 1.5 litre petrol and 1.5 litre diesel engines both with manual gearbox
• Interior includes dual tone cabin digital display and rear AC vents for passenger comfort

Exterior and Design Updates

The Seltos HTE stands out with LED headlamps and LED daytime running lights, giving it a contemporary look. The gloss black grille and silver-finished skid plate enhance the front design, while sharp lines and an upright stance add to its road presence. The SUV rides on 16-inch steel wheels, with alloy wheels reserved for higher trims. Flush-type door handles contribute to a cleaner design, though roof rails are not included in this variant. At the rear, the Seltos HTE features connected LED tail lamps, a rear spoiler, and a shark-fin antenna. The tailgate displays prominent ‘Seltos’ lettering, and a silver skid plate adds contrast to the bumper. Rear wipers are available only on higher variants.

Kia offers the HTE variant in several monotone exterior colours. Dual-tone shades with a black roof are exclusive to higher trims. The tall stance and strong shoulder lines maintain the SUV character across the range.

Interior Features and Comfort

Inside, the Seltos HTE has a dual-tone grey and black cabin theme. Hard plastics are used throughout, but grey accents on the dashboard, centre console, and gear lever area provide contrast. The seats feature fabric upholstery with grey inserts. Despite being the base variant, the HTE includes an infotainment system, digital driver’s display, multiple charging ports, and power windows for all doors. The air conditioning is manual, but rear passengers benefit from dedicated AC vents.

Key features include a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12-inch LCD digital instrument cluster, and a 4-inch colour TFT MID for climate control. The HTE also offers a 6-speaker sound system, type-C charging ports, keyless entry, cruise control, and electrically adjustable outside mirrors.

Engine Options and Safety

The Seltos HTE is available with a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine and a 1.5-litre diesel engine. Both engines come with a manual gearbox. Automatic transmission options are offered only in higher variants. Safety features include six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, ISOFIX child seat mounts, and rear parking sensors.

The Seltos HTE competes with compact SUVs such as the Hyundai Creta, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Honda Elevate, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, MG Astor, Renault Duster, and Tata Sierra. While the HTE lacks some premium features found in higher trims, it covers essential requirements and provides a modern driving experience at a lower price point.