Testing out both the 2026 Kia Seltos X-Pro and 2026 Kia Telluride X-Pro have led to a change in perception about the brand’s capabilities.

By Keith Griffin

Kia is not a brand associated with off-road capability. The X-Pro lineup, though, erases any doubt. Recent time with the 2026 Kia Seltos X-Pro, a potent sub-compact crossover, and the luxurious 2026 Kia Telluride X-Pro changes that perception.

The 2026 Kia Seltos X-Pro marks a bold second-generation transformation for the brand’s popular subcompact crossover. Borrowing the blocky, aggressive aesthetics of the midsize Telluride and blending them with the futuristic cues of Kia’s electric vehicle lineup, the new Seltos positions itself as a miniature trailblazer. While previous iterations focused heavily on urban agility, the all-new X-Pro trim is engineered to tackle rugged paths, offering an enticing option for drivers seeking adventurous capability in a compact footprint.

Rugged Design and Enhancements

The exterior leaves no doubt about its off-road intentions. The upgraded Trailready X-Pro kit adds heavy-duty 17-inch matte black alloy wheels wrapped in genuine all-terrain tires, giving the vehicle an aggressive stance and real grip. Chunky protective wheel arches and standard rugged black roof rails emphasize its trail-focused design, while increased ground clearance ensures it can clear rocks and uneven terrain more confidently than a standard crossover.

Powertrain and Performance Specs

Under the hood, the 2026 Seltos X-Pro benefits from a heavily revised 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. This powerplant delivers a robust 190 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. In a welcome move for off-road enthusiasts, Kia has ditched the previous dual-clutch transmission for a smooth 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission. Power is delivered through an active torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system with a locking center differential. When engaged, the lock mode splits power 50/50 between the front and rear wheels, providing optimal low-speed traction on slick or unpaved surfaces.

Interior and Technology

Inside the cabin quality punches well above its weight class, featuring premium soft-touch materials and a modern dashboard layout. It comes equipped with Kia’s latest connected infotainment system, featuring a highly intuitive integrated AI assistant. Safety is a Kia priority, packing the crossover with standard and available features like forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane-keep assist, and a 360-degree camera system for seamless navigation. Practicality is maintained with up to 62.8 cubic feet of cargo space when the reclining rear seats are folded flat.

Verdict and Estimated Pricing

The 2026 Kia Seltos X-Pro is a well-rounded vehicle that isn’t a mundane commuter car and delivers exceptional value. For those wanting an affordable, tech-forward daily driver that can comfortably transition into a weekend trail warrior, the Seltos X-Pro is a standout.

Telluride X-Pro

The 2026 Kia Telluride X-Pro cements its reputation as a class leader among three-row midsize SUVs. Building on the success of its predecessor, the redesigned second-generation model sharpens its looks with an EV9-inspired exterior and updates its power delivery to provide the perfect balance of rugged capability and upscale family comfort.

Performance and Trail Capability

The most substantial shift for 2026 is under the hood. Kia has replaced the traditional naturally aspirated V6 with a 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, delivering 274 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a smooth 8-speed automatic transmission, the turbocharger provides robust low-end torque that makes accelerating with a full cabin effortless.

While other trims emphasize efficiency, the X-Pro trim is purpose-built for the trail. It comes standard with a robust All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system and exclusive off-road hardware. It gains an elevated 8.4 inches of ground clearance (a 0.4-inch lift) to clear rugged ruts and obstacles. Riding on 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in factory all-terrain tires, the X-Pro delivers impressive mechanical grip through sand, mud, and snow. Thanks to specialized heavy-duty cooling, its maximum towing capacity is boosted to 5,500 pounds, out-hauling the standard Telluride by 500 pounds.

Cabin Luxury and Advanced Technology

Inside, the elongated wheelbase drastically expands third-row legroom and cargo capacity, making it a dream for long family road trips. The cockpit transforms into a digital powerhouse anchored by a seamless glass panel housing a dual 12.3-inch panoramic instrument and infotainment display. Standard acoustic glass ensures a whisper-quiet ride, isolating passengers from harsh road noise.

Opting for the top-tier SX-Prestige X-Pro elevates the cabin to near-luxury status. It features rich Nappa leather upholstery, a premium 14-speaker Meridian sound system, dual wireless charging pads, and massaging front relaxation seats.

Verdict and Value

With pricing ranging from approximately $55,235 for the SX X-Pro to $58,335 for the fully loaded SX-Prestige X-Pro, Kia continues to offer unmatched value. When you factor in the extensive safety suite – including a 360-degree off-road camera and Highway Driving Assist – alongside Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, the 2026 Telluride X-Pro is among the best of the three-row family segment.

Keith Griffin, a  West Hartford resident, is a longtime automotive journalist and past president of the New England Motor Press Association.

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