2026 Kia Seltos Diesel With 7-Speed AT Will Be Major Upgrade on the Horizon
The 2026 model of the Kia Seltos is expected to come with a significant upgrade in its diesel automatic transmission offering, according to insider sources. Kia is reportedly developing a 7-speed automatic transmission (AT) for the 1.5-litre diesel engine variant of the Seltos, marking a first-in-segment move that could enhance performance, refine the driving experience and improve efficiency.
What the Upgrade Means: Performance, Efficiency & Refinement
Currently, the Seltos diesel (1.5-litre) is offered with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic. That engine produces 116 PS and 250 Nm of torque. With the shift to a 7-speed AT, Kia aims to offer closer gear ratios, better mid-range response and lower engine speeds at cruising. The tighter spread of ratios in the key usable gears (3rd through 5th) can improve agility when overtaking or merging in traffic. Kia is reportedly tailoring this transmission for Indian conditions, including extreme weather and varied terrain, adding further relevance for the local market.
What to Expect & Market Implications
Kia’s decision to develop the 7-speed AT suggests the brand is confident about diesel’s relevance in India for the near term and is willing to invest in premium transmission technology to maintain competitive advantage. The improved gearbox could also help the diesel engine meet stricter upcoming emission norms by enabling lower RPM cruising and reduced engine load, thereby lowering both fuel consumption and emissions. As SUVs grow in popularity and buyers seek more automatic and refined driving experiences, this upgrade may appeal to those wanting diesel efficiency with near-premium automatic convenience.
Timing and Launch Considerations
According to speculations, this updated diesel automatic version of the 2026 Seltos is likely to debut alongside the next-generation model expected in early 2026 in India. While Kia has not officially confirmed the 7-speed AT yet, insider sources and spy-shots of test mules suggest that this development is under active testing and engineering.
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