New Kia Seltos Diesel To Go Upmarket with 7-Speed Automatic: Details

Kia is preparing a big transmission upgrade for the next generation Seltos diesel. A report on Rushlane indicates that the company is developing a new 7-speed automatic for the 1.5-litre diesel. The plan is to launch it with the next-gen Seltos in early 2026. If it arrives as described, this would be a first-in-segment feature for a mid-size SUV diesel in this category. For buyers who prefer long-distance efficiency and an automatic, this is the key update to watch.

What is changing

The current Seltos diesel uses a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine with 116 PS and 250 Nm. Today it is sold with a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque converter automatic. The proposed 7-speed automatic would replace the existing 6-speed automatic.

The upgrade is aimed at giving the SUV tighter ratios in everyday use. Closer gearing in the middle of the rev band should help the Seltos respond better when you are overtaking, joining faster traffic, or pulling up a flyover with passengers and luggage.

Kia is also working on local testing and validation. The new transmission is being tuned for hot weather in the north and west, heavy monsoon conditions along the coasts, and mixed use that includes stop-go city traffic, fast expressways, and broken rural roads. The goal is predictable behavior and durability across typical Indian use cases.

Why a 7-speed matters

A seventh gear lets the engine turn at lower revs at cruising speeds. That usually means less cabin noise, better refinement, and potential gains in fuel economy. Lower engine speeds at 90 to 100 kmph also reduce mechanical stress over time. That can support long-term reliability, which is important for diesel buyers who cover high monthly mileage. Running at lighter loads should also help the powertrain stay aligned with stricter emission rules expected in the coming years.

The shift to a 7-speed automatic is a clear signal that Kia sees continued demand for diesel in this segment. Several brands have reduced diesel options due to the cost of compliance. Kia is choosing to keep that choice open for buyers who value range and efficiency. For those who want convenience without giving up diesel economy, a smarter gearbox is a straightforward draw.

Where it sits in the segment

The Seltos competes head-to-head with the Hyundai Creta. The Creta diesel currently offers a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. If Kia introduces a 7-speed automatic on the Seltos diesel, it gives the Kia a feature advantage against its closest rival on the diesel automatic front. Many other midsize SUVs either do not sell a diesel at all or provide fewer automatic choices, so this move would give the Seltos a simple talking point at the showroom.

Test mules of the next-generation Seltos have been seen on public roads. Exterior and interior updates are expected, but powertrain details on those cars have stayed under covers. The 7-speed automatic has not been widely reported until now, and it is expected to roll out on multiple variants. Whether every diesel automatic trim gets it or only higher-spec versions will be known closer to launch.

What it means

Multi-clutchautomatics have become common in premium cars. Bringing a 7-speed unit to a mass-market diesel SUV makes the Seltos feel more upmarket without changing the core formula. If the tuning delivers quick shifts and well-chosen ratios, owners should notice smoother progress in traffic, a quieter cruise, and the familiar diesel range that keeps fuel stops in check.

For manual buyers thinking about moving to an automatic, the 7-speed gives one more reason to switch. And for shoppers comparing the Seltos and Creta diesels, this could become a deciding factor if pricing and features remain close.

The launch timeline remains early 2026 with the next-generation Seltos. Expect Kia to position the 7-speed automatic as a key feature on the diesel lineup. If executed well, this single hardware change can lift day-to-day driveability, refinement, and perceived value without altering what diesel Seltos buyers already like: torque, range, and long-haul efficiency.