The 2026 Kia Seltos and Nissan Kicks are new compact SUVs for Indian buyers both suit families and weekend trips with stylish looks and easy driving Seltos gets a sharper design and upgraded tech launching in early 2026.
The Kicks expected to relaunch in India is bigger with all-wheel drive and smooth power both seat five, run fuel-efficient and have modern screens, the Seltos offers stronger torque for highways while the Kicks is more affordable. Prices start at ₹11.3 lakh for Seltos and about ₹10 lakh for Kicks with deliveries from mid-2026.
The 2026 Kia Seltos & Nissan Kicks Design: Bold and Boxy
The Kia Seltos looks bold and premium with its 4.4-meter length, wide grille and LED lights, it also has a panoramic sunroof that makes the cabin feel open, the dashboard uses soft-touch materials, seats can be adjusted and the 433L boot space can fold flat for luggage with 190mm ground clearance and 17-inch alloy wheels, it handles bumps smoothly and stays stable.
The Nissan Kicks is slightly smaller at 4.3 meters and has a boxy, urban design with slim LEDs, a floating roof and optional 19-inch wheels for a sporty look, the cabin feels cozy with cloth or leather seats and the cargo space can expand up to 1,700L when folded, it is easy to park and drive in tight spaces, while simple bars and mirrors give clear visibility both SUVs are built for comfortable rides during the day or at night.
Learn More: December SUV Surge: 4 Hot Launches Explained – Power, Green and Family Wins for India
Expected Price in India
The Kia Seltos has a starting price of ₹11.3 lakh (ex-showroom), while the Nissan Kicks is expected to cost around ₹10 lakh if it comes back to India.
In Delhi, buyers need to add about ₹50,000–₹80,000 for insurance and registration, this makes the on-road price about ₹11.8–12 lakh for the base Seltos and ₹10.5–11 lakh for the Kicks.
Compared to rivals:
- Hyundai Creta: Rs 11 lakh
- Maruti Grand Vitara: Rs 10.8 lakh
- Tata Nexon: Rs 8 lakh
Learn More: Shadow Hauler Elite: Isuzu S-Cab Z Dark Series – Stealthy Style for Heavy Duty
Key Specs: Power, Range, and Size
| Spec | 2026 Kia Seltos | 2026 Nissan Kicks |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L petrol/diesel/turbo | 2.0L petrol |
| Power | 115–160 hp | 141 hp |
| Torque | 144–250 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Mileage | 17–20 kmpl | 15–18 kmpl (28/35 mpg equiv) |
| Dimensions | 4.4×1.8×1.65 m, 2.6m wheelbase | 4.3×1.76×1.59 m, 2.62m wheelbase |
| Boot Space | 433L (1,334L folded) | 716L (1,697L folded) |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 170 km/h |
| Weight | 1,300–1,400 kg | 1,270–1,350 kg |
| Suspension | Front MacPherson, rear torsion | Front MacPherson, rear torsion |
| Brakes | Disc/drum with ABS | Disc/drum with ABS |
| Tyres | 215/60 R17 | 205/55 R17 |
Key Features: Tech and Comfort Clash
- Seltos Perks: Level 2 ADAS (lane keep, auto brake), 10.25-inch dual screens, wireless charging, ventilated seats, 360 camera.
- Kicks Wins: 12.3-inch touchscreen standard, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, AWD option, keyless entry, adaptive cruise.
- Shared Smarts: LED lights, auto AC, rear vents, 6 airbags, hill hold.
- Safety Boost: Seltos with more ADAS, Kicks with optional AWD for wet roads.
- Comfort Edge: Both have sunroofs and USB ports, but Seltos feels roomier up front.
Learn More: Skoda Octavia RS Launched in India at Rs 49.99 Lakh: Price, Specs, and Features
Why the 2026 Kia Seltos Edges in Compact SUVs
The Kia Seltos is well-suited for Indian roads with its diesel engine for strong torque and turbo engine for quick speed, it also comes with ADAS features that make family trips safer. The large boot space and sunroof add comfort for daily use while its mileage of about 20 kmpl helps save fuel costs.
The Nissan Kicks is expected to relaunch with new global technology but the Seltos matches India’s mix of city and highway driving more effectively. Kia also has a wider service network which makes ownership easier.
Both SUVs are fuel-efficient and may be exported in 2026 with a starting price of ₹11.3 lakh, the Seltos offers stronger value for buyers.
Comparison with Rivals: How Seltos & Kicks Stack Up
| SUV | Price (Rs lakh) | Power (hp) | Mileage (kmpl) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 Kia Seltos | 11.3–20 | 115–160 | 17–20 |
| 2026 Nissan Kicks | 10–15 | 141 | 15–18 |
| Hyundai Creta | 11–20 | 115–160 | 17–21 |
| Maruti Grand Vitara | 10.8–19.5 | 103–145 | 20–27 |
Learn More: New Hyundai Venue 2025: Book With ₹25,000 — Bolder Look, More Safety, Prices From ₹8 Lakh
Final Verdict: Why the 2026 Kia Seltos Takes the Win
The 2026 Kia Seltos (₹11.3–20 lakh) launches early 2026 with stronger engines, advanced safety and roomy interiors for Indian roads. The Nissan Kicks may return with affordable AWD and modern screens but the Seltos offers a more balanced package.
Full details arrive on December 10 with bookings for mid-2026 deliveries, the Seltos stands out as a stylish, practical compact SUV.
