The Kia Seltos has once again proven why it remains one of India’s favorite compact SUVs. Since its launch in 2019, the Seltos has consistently delivered strong sales numbers. Now, Kia has officially announced that the SUV has crossed 6 lakh unit sales in India.
That’s a massive achievement in a highly competitive segment. Even more interesting is the fact that the top two trims account for 29 percent of the total sales. This clearly shows that Indian buyers are increasingly choosing feature-loaded variants over base models.
Let’s take a closer look at how the Seltos reached this milestone and what makes it so popular.
Journey
Kia entered the Indian market in August 2019 with the first-generation Seltos. It was the brand’s first product in the country, and it quickly became a blockbuster.
Here’s how the sales milestones progressed:
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 2020 | 1 lakh units |
| 2022 | 3 lakh units |
| 2023 | 5 lakh units |
| 2026 | 6 lakh units |
Despite launching just before the COVID-19 slowdown, the SUV crossed 1 lakh sales within a year. That’s impressive for a new brand in a crowded market.
By August 2022, Kia had achieved 3 lakh cumulative sales. Then in June 2023, just ahead of the facelift launch, the Seltos crossed 5 lakh units. Now, with the second-generation model introduced in January 2026, the total sales have touched 6 lakh units.
The growth has been steady and consistent — a clear sign of sustained demand.
Demand
One of the most important highlights from Kia’s announcement is that 29 percent of total sales come from the top two trims.
This tells us something significant. Buyers are not just looking for affordability; they want premium features. Higher variants such as HTX, GTX, and their automatic versions are seeing strong demand.
Why are customers choosing top trims?
- Bigger dual screens
- Panoramic sunroof
- Ventilated seats
- Bose sound system
- Level-2 ADAS
It shows that Indian consumers are willing to pay more for technology, comfort, and safety. The compact SUV segment is no longer about just practicality — it’s about aspiration.
Design
The second-generation Seltos, launched in January 2026, brought noticeable updates to the design.
On the outside, it features:
- LED headlights with LED DRLs
- 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels
- Flush-type door handles
- Neon brake callipers
- Roof rails
- Connected LED tail lamps
The SUV looks sharper and more aggressive than before. The styling gives it a premium and sporty presence, helping it stand out on the road.
Interior
Inside, the Seltos feels modern and well-equipped. The layered dashboard layout and integrated screen setup add to the premium vibe.
Key features include:
- Dual 12.3-inch displays
- 5-inch climate control display
- Ventilated front seats
- Panoramic sunroof
- Dual-zone climate control
- 8-speaker Bose audio system
- 64-colour ambient lighting
The combination of digital displays and physical controls ensures convenience while driving. The cabin design makes the SUV feel more expensive than its price suggests.
Safety
Safety has become a key factor for Indian buyers, and Kia has addressed this well.
The Seltos comes with:
- Six airbags (standard across variants)
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
- Level-2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
Level-2 ADAS includes features such as adaptive cruise control and lane assist, making highway drives safer and more comfortable.
These features strengthen its appeal among families.
Engines
Kia offers three engine options with the Seltos:
| Engine | Power | Torque | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5L N/A Petrol | 115 PS | 144 Nm | 6MT, CVT |
| 1.5L Turbo Petrol | 160 PS | 253 Nm | 6iMT, 7DCT |
| 1.5L Diesel | 116 PS | 250 Nm | 6MT, 6AT |
The naturally aspirated petrol suits daily city driving. The turbo-petrol offers strong performance for enthusiastic drivers. Meanwhile, the diesel engine delivers good torque and fuel efficiency.
The SUV also features three drive modes — Eco, Normal, and Sport — and three terrain modes (Snow, Mud, Sand), available in automatic variants.
This variety ensures there’s a Seltos for almost every type of buyer.
Pricing
The 2026 Kia Seltos is priced between Rs 10.99 lakh and Rs 19.99 lakh (introductory ex-showroom, pan-India).
It competes with:
- Hyundai Creta
- Honda Elevate
- Tata Sierra
- Skoda Kushaq
- Toyota Hyryder
- Maruti Victoris
- Renault Duster (upcoming)
- Nissan Tekton
- Tata Curvv and Citroen Basalt
Despite tough competition, the Seltos continues to maintain strong sales momentum.
Crossing 6 lakh sales is a remarkable achievement for the Kia Seltos. From being a newcomer in 2019 to becoming one of the most trusted compact SUVs in India, its journey has been impressive.
The fact that nearly one-third of buyers choose top variants highlights the growing demand for premium features and advanced safety technology. With stylish design, multiple engine options, strong safety credentials, and competitive pricing, the Seltos continues to set benchmarks in its segment and shows no signs of slowing down.
FAQs
How many Seltos sold in India?
Over 6 lakh units have been sold.
What percent are top trims?
Top two trims account for 29%.
How many engines are offered?
Three engine options are available.
What is price range?
Rs 10.99 lakh to Rs 19.99 lakh.
Does it offer ADAS?
Yes, Level-2 ADAS is available.
