I am planning to buy the Kia Seltos Petrol Automatic, most likely the HTX (A) variant considering the availability of the 360-degree camera. However, I am confused between the IVT and DCT engine options. I like the performance of the turbo engine, but I am unsure about the suitability of the DCT gearbox in Bangalore traffic. On the other hand, while the IVT may be better suited for crawling traffic conditions, most video reviews mention that it feels underpowered. Please suggest which option would be better for my usage.

Autocar India

•50m

Both are excellent choices, but do bear in mind that the on-road prices of both SUVs would work out to over Rs 19 lakh. As for picking between the two, we would lean more towards the Kia Seltos HTX 1.5 IVT. It's the newer and more modern option with more advanced onboard tech, it is larger and has a far more spacious cabin with comfier seats and higher-quality materials, and its 1.5-litre petrol engine is more powerful than the Toyota's, which will come in handy both around town and on your occasional highway trips. Though the Hyryder is comfy enough, the new Seltos is comfier still and feels more stable at higher speeds too. In terms of long-term ownership, both SUVs should have good resale value, and Kia and Toyota offer a strong aftersales and service experience. What works in Urban Cruiser Hyryder's favour is, its slightly lower maintenance costs from the Maruti-sourced powertrain, and better fuel efficiency too. On balance, however, we feel the Kia Seltos is the better all rounder, and the one you should pick.

Kia Seltos

Autocar India

•1h

With a long city commute, some short highway runs, a Rs.10-17 lakh cap and a clear dislike for non‑turbo motors, the Kia Seltos 1.5 turbo petrol automatic suits you best. It gives you the strong low‑speed pull you want without any diesel DPF worries in stop‑go traffic. The front seats, steering reach and height make it easy for a 6‑foot driver to get comfy, and the cabin feels roomier than the Kylaq and Duster you found tight. It is also one of the nicer cars to drive in this price range, with direct steering and a calm, stable feel at speed, and it packs the safety features you’d expect.One thing to note: the DCT can hesitate a bit at slow speed. If that is an issue then consider the Sierra turbo petrol AT. It is also one of the roomiest in class so you should find it comfortable. Overall for your needs, the Seltos is a good fit.

Kia Seltos

Renault Duster

Skoda Kylaq

Tata Sierra

Autocar India

•7h

With a 50-50 city-highway mix, some 5-person trips, and a Rs. 16 lakh cap, the Kia Seltos HTK 1.5 petrol manual is the stronger fit than the Hyundai Venue 1.0 turbo with the automatic (DCT). It gives you more space for people and bags, and the smooth, linear power works well with your habit of downshifting for quick overtakes.Will the Seltos 1.5 manual feel underpowered when loaded? Yes, but this can be overcome by using the gears. At 70-100 kph, a shift to 4th gives enough pull for safe passes. It won’t jump forward like a turbo, so start the move a little earlier on hills or when fully loaded.Is the Seltos IVT capable? Yes for cruising and single-car passes, but with five on board, it will hold high revs and sound loud. It does the job, but responses are softer than the manual, so you may miss that direct control and pickup you enjoy.Over the long run, the Seltos 1.5 manual suits your use better. It avoids the low-speed lag you felt in the Venue, is less fussy in traffic than a DCT, and is simply the better 5-person car.

Kia Seltos

Hyundai Venue