The 2026 Kia Seltos in a Nutshell
Kia may be moving up in the world, but it hasn’t forgotten its budget roots at all. One proof of that is with the Seltos being one of the least expensive cars one can buy in America today. As average new car prices creep up, it’s nice to know that there are still decent options under $25,000 these days.
Yes, there’s an all-new model that’s already been revealed in South Korea, but we’re not expecting it in showrooms any time soon. We’re still with the first-generation model, and it’s seen a few updates throughout its production. Introduced in 2019, it didn’t reach American showrooms until 2021, and since then, it’s been given an update in 2024. With the redesigned model incoming, it carries over into 2026 with little to no changes apart from the price. It’s actually cheaper to buy this year.
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2026 Kia Seltos Lease Deals for January
One can choose among four leasing options for the Seltos this month. There are two with 24-month periods, and another two with the usual 36 months. It’s available for both LX FWD and AWD models, and all have a due at signing price of $3,499.
Starting with the 24-month leases, the LX FWD goes for $229 per month, while the AWD is $249 per month. As for the 36-month leases, it’s $239 and $259 for LX FWD and LX AWD, respectively. It’s $0.20 per mile over 10,000 miles per year, and the offer is valid until February 2, 2026.
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2026 Kia Seltos Highlights
For base prices, the 2026 Seltos starts at $23,790 to $31,490 with four trims available. The LX serves as the entry point for this subcompact crossover, followed by the S, EX, and SX. Regardless of trim, all come standard with advanced driver assists, wireless phone connectivity, rear air-conditioning vents, and rear privacy glass.
S models add roof rails, additional driver assists, a larger touchscreen, LED daytime running lights, automatic climate control, and a smart key. For EX, the dash gets a dual panoramic display, power driver’s seat, heated front seats, rear parking sensors, and wireless charging. At the top is the SX that throws in LED projector headlights, adaptive cruise control, power tailgate, 18-inch alloys, and a turbocharged engine paired with all-wheel drive.
From LX to EX, the Seltos uses a 2.0-liter engine that makes 146 hp and is mated to a CVT. The SX, on the other hand, uses a 1.6-liter turbo producing 190 hp and is paired with an eight-speed automatic. All-wheel drive is available from LX to EX and, as mentioned, standard in SX.
Final Thoughts
It may be cheap, but it’s far from bare. For those who put value above everything else, the Seltos is a safe bet. It’s well equipped even in base trim, and it’s spacious for its class. Sure, it won’t thrill, but what it does is provide you with years of faithful service without breaking the bank. Whether it’s for a first car or for someone looking for a value-packed vehicle, the Seltos is a worthwhile option.
Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. The information presented herein is based on manufacturer-provided lease offer information, which is subject to frequent change and may vary based on location, creditworthiness, and other factors. We are not a party to any lease agreements and assume no liability for the terms, conditions, availability, or accuracy of any lease offers mentioned. All terms, including but not limited to pricing, mileage allowances, and residual values, require direct verification with an authorized local OEM dealership. This article does not constitute financial advice or an endorsement of any particular lease or vehicle.
About the author
Anton Andres
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