Kia Seltos HTE(O) commands a strong road presence with enhanced comfort, and contemporary feature-rich mid-range options
2026 Kia Seltos has been launched in India. Bookings are already open, while deliveries are set to commence from mid-January. With pricing starting from Rs 10.99 lakh and going up to Rs 19.99 lakh (ex-showroom), the new Seltos will rival the likes of Hyundai Creta, Maruti Grand Vitara, Victoris, Tata Sierra, and others in the highly competitive mid-size SUV segment.
2026 Kia Seltos HTE(O) – First Look
The new Seltos range is available in 4 variants of HTE, HTK, HTX and GTX. Here we detail the 2nd base variant HTE(O), which builds up on the base model with added features, giving it a more premium feel. Based on the new K3 platform, the new Seltos grows in dimensions over its earlier counterpart. Thanks to this new platform, you now get more space on the inside, ride quality has improved and so has the structural build.
Speaking specifically of the HTE(O) variant, this is trim which sits directly above the base HTE trim. Pricing starts off at an ex-showroom price of 12.09 lakh (base petrol manual). A walkaround video shared by Nishhh Reviews shows LED headlamps with halogen turn indicators and connected LED tail lamps.
Exterior Features
It gets a wide front grille, revised bumper with fiber finish and dual tone colour scheme while it rides on 16 inch wheels. Exterior colour options include Imperial Blue, Aurora Black Pearl, Gravity Grey, Morning Haze, Pewter Olive, Ivory Silver Gloss, Magma Red, Frost Blue and Glacier White Pearl.
The Seltos HTE(O) misses out on a sunroof, seen on the higher trims but receives spoiler, roof rails and body coloured bumpers along with a shark fin antenna. Flush door handles and hydraulic opening for the hood are also among its new features. Towards the rear, it gets a reverse parking camera from the base variant itself. Boot space has been increased thanks to the new K3 platform. It gets a boot lamp and spare wheel.
Interior Features
A look at the interiors sees enhanced space and added technology. Space is particularly at a premium at the rear with added knee room and adequate head room even for a taller passenger. Seats are semi leatherette with a central arm rest. The rear is also seen with AC vents.
Coming to the dashboard, the Seltos HTE(O) shows off a new digital driver display, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 12-inch driver’s display and 10.25-inch touchscreen. The steering wheel is adjustable and includes steering mounted controls with cruise control, audio control, etc. Driver seat is manually operated.
The mid-range HTE(O) trim shows off a host of safety equipment. These include a total of 6 airbags, ABS, EBD, hill start assist, TPMS and all wheel disc brakes. This trim does not get Level 2 ADAS features (offered only in higher trims), but receives over-speed warning, 3 point seat belt, child seat anchors and roll over sensor with impact sensing auto door lock.
2026 Kia Seltos HTE(O) – Engine Options
Seltos HTE(O) is powered by a 1.5 liter naturally aspirated petrol engine making 115 hp power and 144 Nm torque with manual and CVT. It also comes in with a 1.5 liter turbo petrol engine making 160 hp power and 253 Nm torque and a 1.5 liter diesel engine offering 116 hp power and 250 Nm torque.
Overall, despite the fact that the base HTE(O) variant misses out on some vital features offered on the higher variants, in itself it offers strong value proposition, bridging the gap between the base HTE trim and its more premium higher variants. It commands a strong road presence with its aggressive design and offers outstanding ride comforts.
