The 2026 Kia Seltos offers something for every driver, from budget-conscious buyers to adventure seekers wanting the latest technology. With six distinct trim levels, this compact SUV lineup can feel overwhelming when you're trying to find the right fit. Each trim builds on the previous one, adding features and capabilities that appeal to different lifestyles and budgets.
Understanding what each trim offers helps you skip the confusion and focus on the Seltos that matches your needs. Whether you're a first-time SUV buyer or upgrading from a sedan, knowing these key differences saves time and helps you make a confident choice.
LX FWD: The Smart Starting Point
The LX FWD serves as the foundation of the Seltos lineup, proving that entry-level doesn't mean basic. This front-wheel drive model comes with 17" alloy wheels, automatic headlights, and halogen bi-function projection headlights. Inside, you'll find an 8" display audio system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a 4.2" TFT LCD instrument cluster.
Safety features include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist. The LX FWD uses a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine producing 147 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT). This combination delivers fuel economy ratings of 8.3/6.8/7.6 L/100km (city/highway/combined).
Climate control comes via manual air conditioning, while heated front seats and power windows with driver auto-down functionality add everyday convenience. The LX FWD targets buyers who want Seltos capability and style without premium features they won't use.
LX AWD: Adding All-Weather Confidence
The LX AWD builds on the FWD model by adding all-wheel drive with a locking differential, making it ideal for Ontario drivers who face snow, rain, and varying road conditions. This upgrade changes the fuel economy to 8.8/7.5/8.2 L/100km while maintaining the same 2.0L engine and IVT transmission.
All other features remain identical to the LX FWD, keeping the focus on essential capabilities rather than luxury touches. The AWD system automatically adjusts power distribution between front and rear wheels, providing better traction when needed while maintaining efficient FWD operation during normal driving.
For buyers who need year-round confidence but want to keep costs reasonable, the LX AWD strikes the right balance between capability and value.
EX AWD: Technology and Comfort Upgrades
The EX AWD represents a significant step up in refinement and technology. This trim adds 17" alloy wheels with machine finish and upgrades to a 10.25" multimedia interface with integrated navigation, HD radio, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The instrument cluster grows to a 10.25" TFT LCD Supervision display.
Comfort features include automatic climate control, power adjustable driver's seat with 2-way lumbar support, and driver's seat memory function. The front passenger also gets a power adjustable seat. Both front and rear seats receive heating, while air-cooled front seats help during hot summer drives.
Technology additions include a wireless phone charger, smart cruise control, electronic parking brake, and power liftgate. Advanced Forward Collision Avoidance Assist and Highway Driving Assist enhance the safety suite. The EX AWD maintains the 2.0L engine but adds practical features that make daily driving more comfortable and convenient.
EX Premium: Enhanced Refinement
The EX Premium takes the EX AWD foundation and adds premium touches that elevate the daily driving experience. Key upgrades include a cargo cover for privacy, ambient mood lighting throughout the cabin, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
This trim level focuses on the small details that make longer drives more pleasant, from improved lighting to thoughtful storage solutions. The EX Premium maintains all the technology and safety features of the EX AWD while adding these quality-of-life improvements.
SX: Performance and Style Leadership
The SX trim transforms the Seltos with a more powerful 1.6L 4-cylinder Turbo GDI engine producing 195 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. This engine pairs with an 8-speed automatic transmission and comes with standard all-wheel drive. The performance upgrade changes fuel economy to 9.7/8.6/9.2 L/100km.
Visual upgrades include 18" alloy wheels and rain sensing wipers, while the interior features a sport D-shaped steering wheel and Bose premium audio system. The SX adds a heads-up display system for key driving information and includes Digital Key 2 Touch functionality for smartphone-based vehicle access.
This trim appeals to drivers who want more power for highway merging and passing, along with premium technology features that enhance the driving experience.
X-Line: Adventure-Ready Attitude
The X-Line builds on the SX platform with distinctive styling that emphasizes outdoor capability. Exterior changes include 18" black alloy wheels, glossy black wheels, gun metal front grille, and gun metal front and rear skid plates. Black roof rails and lower side door garnishes complete the rugged transformation.
Inside, the X-Line features Sofino leather seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear shift knob. Additional convenience features include a sliding centre armrest, rear centre armrest with cupholder, and chrome finish interior door handles.
The X-Line maintains the SX's powerful 1.6L turbo engine and 8-speed automatic transmission, combining performance with adventure-ready styling for buyers who want their SUV to match an active lifestyle.
Choosing Your Ideal Seltos Configuration
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Trim
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Engine
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Drive
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Key Features
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LX FWD
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2.0L (147 hp)
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FWD
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Essential features, great value
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LX AWD
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2.0L (147 hp)
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AWD
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All-weather capability
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EX AWD
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2.0L (147 hp)
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AWD
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Premium tech, comfort features
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EX Premium
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2.0L (147 hp)
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AWD
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Refined details, ambient lighting
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SX
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1.6L Turbo (195 hp)
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AWD
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Performance focus, HUD display
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X-Line
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1.6L Turbo (195 hp)
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AWD
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Adventure styling, rugged appeal
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Each Seltos trim offers 50L fuel tank capacity and identical cargo space: 752L with rear seats up (cargo floor lowered) or 1,778L with rear seats folded. This consistency means your choice focuses on features and capabilities rather than basic utility.
The 2026 Seltos lineup ensures you can find the right balance of features, performance, and price for your specific needs. Stop by Cobourg Kia to explore these trim options and discover which Seltos configuration fits your driving style.
To learn more about the 2026 Kia Seltos, visit Kia.ca
