The 2026 Kia Seltos is an excellent choice for those seeking a compact, five-seat SUV on a budget. With its higher driving position, which Texas drivers prefer, and generous cargo space, it offers a practical alternative to larger models at a more affordable price. At Huffines Kia Corinth, we'll walk you through what's new, engine options, the spacious interior, safety features, and pricing comparisons — all essential information if you're shopping for an SUV in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Engine Performance and Powertrain Options
The Kia Seltos has two engine options. The LX, S, and EX feature a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard, with an available all-wheel drive (AWD) option. The FWD has a sprint time of 0 to 60 mph in 8.3 seconds, making it lively for daily driving.
The SX has a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with AWD. It generates 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 6.9 seconds. The Dynamax AWD uses sensors and a control unit to monitor driving conditions on winter-slick North Texas roads, while the Snow mode and 7-inch ground clearance easily handle light snowfalls.
Interior Design and Comfort Features
The 2026 Kia Seltos model maximizes space, boasting a total passenger volume of 99.6 cubic feet. The front legroom measures 41.4 inches, while the rear measures 38 inches, making both rows comfortable for adults. The refined interior of the EX and higher features SynTex seating, heated front seats, and a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, with an available power sunroof.
The cargo space is impressive, with 26.6 cubic feet that can accommodate eight carry-on bags. Fold the seats down to create 62.8 cubic feet of space for 20 suitcases. The dual-level cargo floor and wide opening make it easy to load gear, groceries, and weekend supplies for families in Corinth.
Technology and Infotainment Systems
The 2026 Seltos enhances connectivity with setups that vary by trim level. The base LX comes with an 8-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a six-speaker audio system, and three USB ports. The S and above get a larger 10.25-inch screen with built-in navigation.
Optional in the EX and SX models are twin displays — a digital gauge display and an infotainment touchscreen — in a glass panel that stretches across two-thirds of the dash. These trims include wireless phone charging, and the SX boasts an eight-speaker Bose system with a subwoofer for superior sound quality on long drives.
Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance
Kia's comprehensive safety tech includes forward collision-avoidance assist to avoid front crashes, lane-keeping assist to reduce drifting, and driver attention warning to alert you when you're becoming drowsy on those long Texas highways. The blind-spot collision warning detects hidden vehicles, while the rear cross-traffic collision helps you when backing out of tight spots. Highway driving assist combines navigation data with lane centering and cruise control, featuring stop-and-go functionality, to handle Dallas-Fort Worth rush hour confidently.
Crash tests prove the Seltos' safety record. The 2022 model earned six "good" ratings in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's tests, with the SX Turbo receiving a Top Safety Pick Award. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration awarded it four out of five stars overall in 2022 and a five-star rating in all categories as of 2025.
Pricing Structure and Trim Comparison
The Seltos price for the entry-level LX starts at $23,690 MSRP and includes 17-inch alloy wheels, remote keyless entry, and rear privacy glass. The S starts at $25,390 and adds a smart key with push-button start, SiriusXM, automated climate control, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
The EX has an MSRP starting at $26,390 and features the dual 10.25-inch screens, rear parking sensors, and wireless phone charging. The top-tier SX starts at $31,390 and adds 18-inch wheels, a power liftgate, and a Bose eight-speaker audio system with a connected mood lamp. We offer comprehensive financing options as well as a convenient online trade-in appraisal of your current vehicle.
How the 2026 Seltos Compares to Competitors
The Seltos surpasses rivals in space, with the Honda HR-V giving you a total cargo space of 55.1 cubic feet and the Subaru Crosstrek 54.7 cubic feet, compared to the Seltos' 62.8 cubic feet. Performance-wise, the Seltos base engine's 0-to-60 mph sprint time of 8.3 seconds is the same as the Subaru but exceeds the HR-V's 9.4-second time.
Price-wise, the Seltos LX undercuts both the 2026 base Crosstrek, which starts at $26,995, and the Honda HR-V, which starts at $26,200. The Seltos has twice won the Cars.com Affordable SUV Challenge, thanks to its combination of upscale feel, balanced handling, and standard safety features.
Warranty Coverage and Ownership Benefits
Kia dominates in warranty coverage, with only Hyundai offering a comparable match. In addition to the 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty that covers engine, transmission, and drivetrain, you get a five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a five-year/100,000-mile rust-through protection. The 10-year powertrain warranty isn't transferable — it reduces to five years or 60,000 miles if you sell your Seltos.
Roadside assistance includes five years or 60,000 miles of 24-hour towing, jump-starts, flat tire help, and lockout service. According to Kelley Blue Book, owners rate the Seltos 4.2 out of 5, with 72% recommending it to friends. People praise its looks, comfort, and fuel economy, which is achieved at an EPA-estimated 31 mpg combined for the most efficient model.
Experience the 2026 Kia Seltos at Huffines Kia Corinth
The Seltos strikes the ideal balance between price, practicality, and modern features if you're looking for a solid compact SUV in North Texas. The Kia Seltos 2026 release date has not been confirmed, but visit us to explore the models we currently have in stock. Our dedicated team is ready to assist you. Please contact us to inquire about our available stock or schedule a test drive to determine if this SUV suits your lifestyle.