KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Few powerful new contenders, including Duster, Tekton, Taigun, and Kushaq
- Big tech upgrades incoming, including triple screens, Level 2 ADAS, hybrid options, and enhanced interiors
- Segment competition intensifies, promising better features and greater value for midsize SUV buyers
The 2026 Kia Seltos, which has just undergone a monumental refresh, is set to face an aggressive wave of competition in 2026, as multiple brands prepare feature-packed, next-gen SUVs aimed straight at the midsize segment leader. From the heavily updated Skoda Kushaq and Volkswagen Taigun facelifts to the all-new Renault Duster and Nissan Tekton, every challenger is stepping up with premium interiors, advanced safety tech, hybrid powertrains and bold new designs. With each model bringing segment-first features like triple-screen layouts, massaging seats, panoramic sunroofs and Level-2 ADAS, the 2026 lineup of upcoming Seltos rivals could redefine expectations in the compact and midsize SUV categories. Let's take a closer look at the line-up, but before that, make sure to join the 91wheels WhatsApp Community, specifically curated for petrolheads like us to keep up with the latest news and automotive updates.
Also Read- 2026 Kia Seltos Variant-wise Features Explained- A Big Step
1. Renault Duster
The upcoming 2026 Renault Duster, a strong upcoming rival to the Kia Seltos, has been spied testing again, this time revealing its most striking upgrade yet, a triple-screen dashboard layout. The test mule showcases a digital driver display, a central infotainment unit, and a dedicated passenger-side screen, a setup unheard of in the compact SUV segment and not even offered in the Duster's global versions. If this makes it to production, the new Duster could set a fresh benchmark for tech-forward interiors in this category. Internationally, the SUV already features dual-zone climate control, wireless smartphone connectivity, OTA updates, six airbags, ADAS functions, and a 360-degree camera, though its rugged cabin design may see India-specific soft-touch enhancements. Set for debut on January 26, 2026 with petrol and strong-hybrid powertrains, and an EV slated for 2027, the new-gen Duster seems poised to re-enter the Indian market with a far more premium, feature-heavy package, potentially shaking up the compact SUV competition once again.
2. Nissan Tekton
The upcoming Nissan Tekton has been previewed through new details, confirming the brand's strong comeback to India's compact SUV segment with a model tailored for both domestic sales and global exports. Inspired heavily by the flagship Nissan Patrol, the Tekton sports connected LED DRLs, C-shaped headlamps, bold SUV proportions, hidden rear door handles, and alloy wheels, giving it a premium, muscular stance. A teaser of the cabin shows a multi-layered dashboard with gloss-black and copper accents, hinting at a more upmarket interior than current Nissan offerings. Expected features include a large touchscreen, digital cluster, panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, wireless charging, and a full suite of safety tech including multiple airbags, a 360-degree camera, and Level 2 ADAS. Engine details remain under wraps, but multiple powertrain choices, including a hybrid, are likely, paired with manual and automatic options. With a launch expected by Q2 2026 and prices estimated to start around Rs 10.5 lakh, it could revive the brand sales in India.
3. Skoda Kushaq Facelift
The 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift is gearing up for a January launch with a host of major upgrades as it prepares to take on fresh rivals like the Tata Sierra in the midsize SUV segment. Spy shots confirm several premium additions, including a segment-first rear-seat massage function, a panoramic sunroof, refreshed digital instrument cluster graphics, updated touchscreen UI, and rear disc brakes for the 1.5 TSI variants. Skoda is also expected to introduce Level 2 ADAS and a 360-degree camera, along with improvements to the SUV's air-conditioning system. Exterior changes appear mild but targeted, with revised lighting clusters, a tweaked grille, redesigned bumpers, and new alloy wheels. Mechanically, the familiar 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre TSI engines will continue, though the smaller unit may receive a new 8-speed torque-converter automatic in place of the current 6-speed.
Also Read- Maruti Brezza Facelift Spied On Test Again- New Details Emerge!
4. VW Taigun Facelift
Fresh spy shots of the 2026 Volkswagen Taigun facelift reveal that the midsize SUV is set to receive subtle but meaningful updates, primarily focused on revised soft-plastic components rather than sheet-metal changes. The camouflaged SUV shows new headlamps inspired by Volkswagen's ID electric range, along with a reworked bumper and grille that appear simpler and more squared-off than before. Redesigned alloy wheels and updated tail-lamps are also expected at the rear. While the cabin hasn't been revealed yet, Volkswagen is likely to upgrade the feature list with additions such as Level 2 ADAS and rear massage seats like the Skoda Kushaq facelift to stay competitive. Under the hood, the familiar 1.0 TSI and 1.5 TSI turbo-petrol engines are expected to continue, though an India-localised 8-speed automatic transmission may eventually replace the current 6-speed torque converter for improved efficiency.
Verdict
With major SUVs gearing up for launch, 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most competitive years for the 2026 Kia Seltos. The updated Skoda Kushaq and Taigun facelifts bring meaningful upgrades, while the reborn Renault Duster and all-new Nissan Tekton promise fresh design direction and more advanced technology than ever before. Each of these upcoming Seltos rivals aims to raise the bar with stronger equipment lists, modernised cabins and improved efficiency. As the segment evolves rapidly, buyers will benefit the most, gaining wider choices, smarter features and more value-packed offerings across the board. The Seltos may remain the benchmark today, but 2026 is the year its challengers arrive fully prepared to rewrite the order.
