The 2026 Kia Seltos gives Canadian compact SUV shoppers a choice between efficient everyday models and more powerful turbocharged configurations, along with available all-wheel drive, generous cargo space and a wide range of technology.
With six configurations ranging from the value-focused LX FWD to the turbocharged X-Line, the 2026 Seltos lineup makes it possible to choose the combination of performance, traction, comfort and features that best fits your driving.
2026 Kia Seltos at a Glance
| Specification |
2026 Kia Seltos |
| Seating |
5 passengers |
| Base Engine |
2.0L 4-cylinder |
| Base Output |
147 hp / 132 lb-ft |
| Available Engine |
1.6L Turbo GDI |
| Turbo Output |
195 hp / 195 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain |
FWD or AWD depending on trim |
| Maximum Cargo Capacity |
1,778 L with rear seats folded |
| Fuel |
Regular unleaded |
2026 Kia Seltos Trim Levels
The 2026 Kia Seltos lineup in Canada provides six main configurations:
- LX FWD
- LX AWD
- EX AWD
- EX Premium
- SX
- X-Line
The biggest decision is whether you want the efficient 2.0L engine or the stronger 1.6L turbo, followed by how much comfort, technology and styling equipment you want.
2026 Kia Seltos Engine Options
Canadian 2026 Seltos models offer two gasoline engines.
2.0L 4-Cylinder Engine
LX and EX-family models use a 2.0-litre four-cylinder MPI engine producing:
- 147 horsepower
- 132 lb-ft of torque
- Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT)
- Regular unleaded fuel
This engine is designed around everyday efficiency and is available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive depending on configuration.
1.6L Turbo Engine
Drivers looking for stronger acceleration can move to the 1.6-litre Turbo GDI four-cylinder.
- 195 horsepower
- 195 lb-ft of torque
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- All-wheel drive
- Regular unleaded fuel
The turbocharged powertrain is used by the SX and X-Line and provides a substantial increase in both horsepower and torque compared with the 2.0L engine.
Is the 2026 Kia Seltos AWD?
All-wheel drive is available on the 2026 Kia Seltos, but not every configuration uses AWD.
The LX is available in both FWD and AWD configurations, while higher trims in the Canadian lineup offer AWD.
Turbocharged SX and X-Line models use all-wheel drive as standard equipment.
For drivers around Cobourg and Northumberland County, AWD may be particularly appealing for winter driving, changing road conditions and travel on rural roads.
2026 Kia Seltos Fuel Economy
Fuel economy varies according to engine and drivetrain.
| Powertrain |
City |
Highway |
Combined |
| 2.0L FWD |
8.3 L/100 km |
6.8 L/100 km |
7.6 L/100 km |
| 2.0L AWD |
8.8 L/100 km |
7.5 L/100 km |
8.2 L/100 km |
Turbocharged models trade some fuel efficiency for considerably more power. Actual fuel consumption will vary with driving conditions, weather, vehicle load and driving habits.
2026 Kia Seltos LX FWD
LX FWD is the starting point of the Seltos lineup and is aimed at shoppers who want the versatility of a small SUV without paying for features they may not need.
It uses the 147-hp 2.0L engine with an IVT and front-wheel drive. Key equipment includes features such as:
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- 8-inch display audio system
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Heated front seats
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
2026 Kia Seltos LX AWD
The LX AWD keeps the value-focused equipment of LX while adding all-wheel drive.
It uses the same 147-hp 2.0L engine and IVT but provides additional traction for drivers who regularly encounter snow, rain or changing road conditions.
For many Ontario drivers, LX AWD can represent a practical balance between affordability and year-round capability.
2026 Kia Seltos EX AWD
EX AWD moves the Seltos further toward comfort and technology while retaining the efficient 2.0L powertrain.
Depending on equipment, EX-family features can include upgrades such as larger digital displays, additional driver-assistance technology, power seating, automatic climate control and additional convenience equipment.
EX is worth considering for shoppers who want more interior features without moving to the turbocharged powertrain.
2026 Kia Seltos EX Premium
EX Premium adds another level of refinement to the 2.0L AWD configuration.
It is aimed at drivers who prioritize technology and comfort while still preferring the fuel economy and character of the naturally aspirated 2.0L engine.
This makes EX Premium an interesting middle ground between the mainstream EX and the performance-oriented SX.
2026 Kia Seltos SX
The Seltos SX makes one of the biggest jumps in the lineup because it introduces the turbocharged engine.
Its 1.6L Turbo GDI produces 195 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD.
SX also adds premium technology and convenience equipment, making it a good fit for drivers who want stronger acceleration without giving up the Seltos's compact dimensions.
2026 Kia Seltos X-Line
X-Line combines the turbocharged powertrain with distinctive exterior and interior styling.
It uses the same 195-hp 1.6L turbo engine, eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD configuration while adding X-Line-specific design details.
These can include black exterior accents, unique wheels, roof rails and rugged-inspired trim details.
X-Line is therefore aimed at shoppers who want the stronger turbo performance along with a more adventurous appearance.
2026 Kia Seltos Cargo Space
One of the strengths of the Seltos is how much cargo space Kia fits into its relatively compact exterior.
The 2026 Seltos provides up to:
- 752 litres behind the rear seats with the cargo floor lowered
- 1,778 litres with the rear seats folded
That makes it practical for groceries, luggage, sports equipment, pets and weekend trips without requiring the larger footprint of a midsize SUV.
How Big Is the 2026 Kia Seltos?
The 2026 Seltos measures approximately:
- 4,385 mm long
- 1,800 mm wide
- 2,630 mm wheelbase
Its compact dimensions make it easy to use around town while still providing a useful amount of passenger and cargo room.
2026 Kia Seltos Interior and Technology
Technology varies considerably as you move through the Seltos lineup.
Available equipment includes features such as:
- 10.25-inch multimedia interface
- 10.25-inch digital instrument display
- Integrated navigation
- Wireless phone charging
- Available Bose premium audio
- Available head-up display
- Available Digital Key 2 Touch
- Available power liftgate
- Available driver memory seat
- Available heated rear seats
This range of equipment allows buyers to choose between a relatively straightforward small SUV and a much more technology-focused cabin.
2026 Kia Seltos Safety Features
The Seltos offers a broad selection of Kia driver-assistance technologies.
Depending on trim and equipment, features include:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Lane Following Assist
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Rear-view camera with dynamic parking guidelines
- Available Highway Driving Assist
- Available advanced collision-avoidance technology
2026 Kia Seltos vs Sportage: Which Is Bigger?
The Kia Sportage is larger than the Seltos.
The 2026 Seltos measures 4,385 mm long with a 2,630 mm wheelbase, while the 2026 Sportage measures 4,685 mm long with a 2,755 mm wheelbase.
That makes the Seltos easier to manoeuvre and park, while the Sportage provides additional rear-seat and cargo room.
Shoppers who don't need the extra size may find the Seltos offers a particularly useful balance between compact exterior dimensions and SUV versatility.
Can the 2026 Kia Seltos Tow?
Kia does not recommend the Seltos for trailer towing.
Drivers who need to tow a trailer should consider a larger Kia SUV with an appropriate published towing capacity rather than assuming the Seltos can tow based on engine output alone.
Which 2026 Kia Seltos Trim Should You Choose?
| Priority |
Consider |
| Lowest-cost entry into Seltos |
LX FWD |
| Value plus AWD |
LX AWD |
| More comfort and technology |
EX AWD |
| Premium features with 2.0L engine |
EX Premium |
| Turbo performance |
SX |
| Turbo performance plus rugged styling |
X-Line |
2026 Kia Seltos FAQs
What engine is in the 2026 Kia Seltos?
The 2026 Seltos offers a 2.0L four-cylinder producing 147 horsepower and an available 1.6L turbocharged four-cylinder producing 195 horsepower.
Does the 2026 Kia Seltos have AWD?
Yes. AWD is available on the Seltos, and it is standard with the turbocharged SX and X-Line configurations.
How much horsepower does the 2026 Kia Seltos have?
The 2.0L engine produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. The available 1.6L turbo produces 195 horsepower and 195 lb-ft.
Is the 2026 Kia Seltos turbocharged?
SX and X-Line models use a 1.6L turbocharged engine. Other Seltos configurations use the naturally aspirated 2.0L four-cylinder.
What transmission does the 2026 Kia Seltos have?
The 2.0L engine is paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), while the 1.6L turbo uses an eight-speed automatic.
How much cargo space does the Kia Seltos have?
The Seltos provides up to 752 litres behind the rear seats with the cargo floor lowered and up to 1,778 litres with the rear seats folded.
Does the 2026 Kia Seltos need premium gas?
No. Kia specifies regular unleaded fuel for both 2026 Seltos engine options.
Can the Kia Seltos tow a trailer?
Kia does not recommend the Seltos for trailer towing.
Is the Seltos smaller than the Sportage?
Yes. The Seltos is shorter and has a shorter wheelbase than the Sportage, making it the more compact of the two Kia SUVs.
Explore the 2026 Kia Seltos at Cobourg Kia
The 2026 Seltos gives shoppers several ways to configure Kia's compact SUV, from the efficient LX FWD to the more powerful turbocharged SX and X-Line.
The team at Cobourg Kia can help you compare available Seltos trims, AWD configurations, features and current inventory to determine which version best fits your driving needs.
Shop the 2026 Kia Seltos
Explore current Kia Seltos inventory available at Cobourg Kia.
VIEW NEW KIA INVENTORY
Vehicle specifications, equipment, fuel economy, trim availability and inventory are subject to change. Actual fuel consumption will vary based on driving habits and conditions. Contact Cobourg Kia or consult Kia Canada for current Canadian vehicle specifications and availability.
