Trims and Powertrains

The 2026 Kia Seltos comes in a foursome of trims: LX, S, EX, and SX. Most have a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 147 horsepower, but the SX gets a boost with a 190-horsepower turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder. The LX, S, and EX have a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with standard front-wheel drive (FWD) or optional all-wheel drive (AWD). The SX is made strictly with AWD and an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

With FWD, the LX, S, and EX are all EPA-rated to achieve 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. This changes to 27 mpg around town and 31 mpg on the highway with AWD. The AWD-only Seltos SX returns 24 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

Standard Features and Options

The LX may be the entry-level Seltos, but it supplies a number of surprising extras, such as power side-view mirrors, rear air-conditioning vents, automatic-on/off projector-style headlights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, rear privacy glass, four USB ports, and a dual-level cargo floor. Remote keyless entry, fabric upholstery, cruise control, a 4.2-inch instrument display, and 17-inch alloy wheels round out the standard equipment list. The S introduces premium touches like upholstery in a combination of SynTex leatherette and cloth, automatic climate control, proximity keyless entry, remote start, fog lights, and LED taillights and daytime running lights. This trim also has roof rails, push-button start, heated side-view mirrors with integrated LED turn indicators, LED interior lighting, and an additional front USB port. Heated front seats and a power liftgate are optional on the S.

The EX gets full SynTex leatherette upholstery, heated front seats, a ten-way power driver's seat, a 10.25-inch digital instrument display, solar-reducing glass, and wireless device charging. Upscale is the best word to describe the SX, which has a power liftgate, LED headlights and fog lights, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, a rear cargo cover, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and 18-inch alloy wheels. It’s eligible for heated and ventilated front seats and a digital key as options. A power sunroof is optional for both the EX and SX.

Advanced Safety Technology

The 2026 Kia Seltos is equipped with numerous advanced driver-assistance features, including forward collision-avoidance assist (with pedestrian, cyclist, and car detection), lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-following assist, driver attention warning, and rear occupant alert. Every Seltos also has a set of airbags, anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, hill start assist control, and a rearview monitor. All but the base trim get blind-spot collision warning, rear cross-traffic avoidance assist, and safe exit warning. The EX and SX have rear parking sensors. Exclusive to the SX are upgraded forward collision-avoidance assist (with junction turning detection), adaptive cruise control, highway driving assist, and speed limit assist.

Infotainment and Connectivity

An 8-inch touchscreen takes care of infotainment in the Seltos LX, while the higher trims are upgraded to a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation. Both systems have Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (wireless on the LX) as well as Bluetooth. The S and above have SiriusXM satellite radio, voice recognition, and access to Kia Connect services. Most trims have a six-speaker audio system, while the SX gets upgraded to a Bose unit with eight speakers. The EX and SX also have a sound-connected mood lamp.