Kia Seltos Features & Specs Page

 Kia Seltos on an open road

The 2026 Kia Seltos delivers a practical blend of capability, technology, and everyday versatility, with engine options offering up to 190 horsepower, available all-wheel drive with Lock Mode, and up to 62.8 cubic feet of cargo space. Inside, features like an available Dual Panoramic Display, wireless connectivity, and advanced driver-assistance systems help define a well-rounded compact SUV. From trim levels and technology to interior comfort and safety systems, every detail is designed to support confident, connected driving.

Archer Kia is proud to serve drivers in and around Houston, TX, with a wide selection of vehicles, including the Kia Seltos and Kia Sportage. Our team is here to assist with every step, from finding the right vehicle to ongoing service, genuine parts, and flexible financing options tailored to your needs. Visit us today or contact us to speak with a Kia expert and get started.

 

What Engine Options and Performance Features Does the 2026 Kia Seltos Offer?

Performance in the 2026 Kia Seltos is built around choice. Whether you are prioritizing efficiency for daily driving or looking for added power on the highway, the lineup gives you two distinct engine options that shape the overall driving experience. Many drivers in Texas are looking for that flexibility, and it shows up clearly in how this SUV is engineered.

 

Two Engine Options, Two Driving Experiences

The Kia Seltos offers a standard engine for balanced efficiency and an available turbocharged option for more responsive performance.

2.0L Inline 4-cylinder engine

  • 147 horsepower at 6,200 rpm
  • 132 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm
  • Paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT)

Available 1.6L Turbocharged Inline 4-cylinder engine

  • 190 horsepower at 6,000 rpm
  • 195 lb.-ft. of torque from 1,700 to 4,500 rpm
  • Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission

The difference becomes noticeable depending on how you drive. The standard engine supports steady, efficient commuting, while the turbocharged option delivers stronger acceleration when merging or passing.

 

How Do 2026 Kia Seltos Trim Levels and Technology Compare?

Understanding Kia Seltos trim levels and technology starts with recognizing how each option builds on the last. The 2026 Kia Seltos lineup is structured to give drivers flexibility, whether the priority is essential features or a more connected, feature-rich driving experience. Each trim introduces meaningful upgrades without overcomplicating the decision.

 

What Trim Levels Are Available?

The Kia Seltos is offered in four primary trims:

LX

  • 2.0L 4-cylinder engine (147 hp) with CVT
  • 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™
  • 17-inch alloy wheels + cloth seating
  • Standard safety suite (lane keep assist, forward collision avoidance)
  • Available AWD

S

  • Adds 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation
  • Keyless entry + push-button start
  • Heated front seats (with AWD) + upgraded interior materials
  • Blind-spot monitoring + rear cross-traffic alert
  • Roof rails + LED lighting accents

EX

  • Synthetic leather seating + power driver’s seat
  • Wireless phone charger + larger digital instrument cluster
  • Heated front seats standard
  • Hands-free power liftgate (with AWD)
  • Rear parking sensors + more comfort tech

SX

  • Turbocharged 1.6L engine (190 hp) + 8-speed automatic
  • Standard AWD + sportier handling
  • 18-inch wheels + full LED lighting
  • Bose® premium audio system
  • Advanced driver assist (adaptive cruise, highway driving assist)

Each trim shares the same core design and capability, but the technology, comfort, and convenience features evolve as you move up the lineup.

 

How Does Technology Progress Across Trims?

Technology is one of the clearest areas where differences appear. From simple, intuitive systems to more advanced displays and connectivity, the Seltos adapts to different driver preferences.

Display and Interface Options

  • Standard 8-inch touchscreen display
  • Available 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation
  • Up to a 10.25-inch instrument display

These larger displays create a more immersive and organized driving environment, especially when managing navigation, media, and vehicle information.

Audio and Entertainment

  • Standard 6-speaker audio system
  • Available Bose® premium audio system with 8 speakers

For drivers who spend a lot of time on the road, the upgraded audio system can noticeably enhance the in-cabin experience.

Connectivity and Convenience

  • Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ (availability varies by trim)
  • Kia Connect features
  • Available wireless phone charger
  • Bluetooth® multi-device connectivity
  • USB and USB-C charging ports for front and rear passengers

These features are designed to keep everyone connected without adding unnecessary complexity.

 

What is the cargo space and seating capacity of the 2026 Kia Seltos? 

The 2026 Kia Seltos seats 5 passengers and offers 26.6 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 62.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

 

What engine options are available in the 2026 Kia Seltos? 

The 2026 Kia Seltos offers a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower and an available 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder with 190 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque.

 

What safety tech is standard on the 2026 Kia Seltos? 

The 2026 Kia Seltos includes Auto Emergency Braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Driver Attention Warning, Rear Occupant Alert, Safe Exit Warning, plus ABS and Electronic Stability Control.

 

How does the Kia Seltos compare to other subcompact SUVs in 2026? 

The 2026 Kia Seltos stands out with more interior space, available all-wheel drive, advanced tech like a large display setup, and up to 62.8 cubic feet of cargo space, while compared to the Kia Sportage, it offers a more compact size and efficiency-focused design with many similar features.

 

Ready to Drive Home In a New Kia Seltos?

Finding the right SUV often comes down to how well it fits into your daily routine. The Kia Seltos offers a practical combination of performance, flexible cargo space, and advanced technology, while models like the Kia Sportage provide a larger alternative with expanded interior room and features. If you are still comparing options, take a closer look at how Kia Seltos features, specs, and trim differences align with your driving needs and preferences.

For drivers in Houston, TX, our team at Archer Kia is here to make the process straightforward. Our inventory includes the Kia Seltos and Kia Sportage, giving you multiple options to compare in person. Whether you are narrowing down trims, exploring technology features, or planning your next upgrade, we are ready to assist. Contact us today or visit our dealership to speak with our team and continue your search with confidence.


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