2026 Kia Seltos EX Test Drive: Full Review of Features, Tech, and Comfort

The compact SUV segment has a new contender that’s turning heads—meet the 2026 Kia Seltos EX. During our latest test drive, we took a deep dive into its features, tech, and all-around comfort, and this vehicle seriously impresses on all fronts.

Striking Design and Practical Touches

Starting with its eye-catching Snow White Pearl exterior, the 2026 Seltos EX is more than just aesthetically pleasing. The gloss black grille with chromatic accents, LED zig-zag daytime running lights, and fog lights give it a bold, upscale look. It rides on sleek 17-inch gloss black rims, and the lower protective cladding helps keep the paint scratch-free from road debris—practical for everyday driving.

Easy access is a theme throughout, with keyless entry and a power liftgate that can be opened from the fob or inside the car. The cargo area offers a ton of space, an underfloor spare tire, extra storage, and a tonneau cover for privacy.

Spacious and Comfortable Interior

Climb inside, and you’re greeted by black perforated SynTex leather seats with stylish stitching. The back seats are a standout: rear air vents (rare in this segment), USB-C charging, fold-down armrest with cupholders, hard plastic seatbacks that are easy to clean, and doors that open a full 90 degrees—making car seats or larger items easy to handle.

Cutting-Edge Tech and Convenience

Up front, the Seltos EX showcases a slick, seamless digital display with two 10.25-inch screens—one serving as the driver’s cluster and the other as the infotainment center. Built-in navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Kia Connect, and custom sound mood lamps let you personalize your drive. Handy features like quiet mode, voice memos, and wireless phone charging up the convenience factor.

Control is at your fingertips: there are customizable shortcut buttons, tactile controls for climate and media, a sunroof, and multiple charging ports (USB, USB-C, 12V, and wireless). Notably, both driver and passenger enjoy three-stage heated seats.

Performance and Driving Experience

The Seltos EX is powered by a 2.0L naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine—more than enough for daily driving or highway merging. It offers distinct drive modes (Normal, Sport, and Smart) that tweak performance and steering feel on the fly. Sport mode, in particular, tightens steering and changes the dash display for a sportier vibe.

Safety and handling are also front and center, with features like automatic headlights/high beams, lane keep assist, blind spot detection (with audible and visual alerts), and rear cross-traffic avoidance. The backup camera provides dynamic guidance lines, and the system will even automatically brake if an obstacle is detected when reversing.

Warranty and Real-World Driving

All Kia Seltos vehicles come with Kia’s impressive 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, plus a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. Maneuverability is superb with a tight turning radius, and the drive feels nimble yet substantial—perfect for both city streets and weekend adventures.

Shop for a 2026 Kia Seltos EX 

Final Thoughts

With a combination of smart tech, thoughtful comfort features, and strong safety credentials, the 2026 Kia Seltos EX is a value-packed option in the small SUV market. Whether you’re hauling family, friends, or gear, this model is equipped to handle it all.

Ready to see it in person? Check us out in Greensburg, PA and prepare to be impressed by the Seltos’ blend of style, comfort, and innovation!