Autocar India
4w

My daily running is around 10-15km, mostly in the city. I'm considering the Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta, Maruti Suzuki Victoris, and MG Windsor. I don't want a sunroof, but an automatic transmission, a 360-degree camera and low maintenance are my priorities. Please advise.

Verified
3w

Go for the Kia Seltos Petrol IVT if it fits your budget, with the Hyundai Creta Petrol CVT as an equally good alternative if you prefer its styling or have a better local dealer. With a running of just 10 to 15km a day and predominantly city driving, a petrol automatic is the most sensible choice. A strong hybrid like the Victoris will save some fuel in traffic, but at this mileage, it will take a long time to recover its higher purchase price. The MG Windsor also doesn't make financial sense unless you have reliable home charging and specifically want to switch to an EV.

The Seltos and Creta offer a very polished ownership experience with smooth, naturally aspirated petrol engines and reliable automatic gearboxes that are well-suited to stop-start traffic. They also have widespread service networks, good resale value and are likely to be easier and cheaper to own over the long term than newer alternatives.

Since you don't want a sunroof but do want an automatic and a 360-degree camera, look at the variant lineup carefully, as these features are often bundled together.

Kia Seltos

Kia Seltos

3w

@autocar.india if one can wait till 2027, should one buy the newer version of creta

3w

I agree with this 👍

3w

Crests Mileage

3w

Why is Honda Elevate not in your list of SUVs?

3w

Makes sense 👍

3w

Hi my running approx 50km in a day in the city which is the best suv for me in the range of 20 to 25L

3w

@bhushan.7 Best recommendation would be the Toyota Hyryder Strong Hybrid. It delivers excellent fuel efficiency in city traffic, offers proven reliability, a comfortable ride, and is one of the best long-term SUVs you can buy in the ₹20-25 lakh range.

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More questions on similar cars

5d

I've been driving a Maruti Ritz Diesel (190 Nm) for the last 5 years and am looking for an upgrade. My usage is 70% highway and 30% city, with a monthly running of only 500-750 km. I live in Bangalore and primarily use the car for weekend drives and highway trips. Cars tested: Honda Elevate MT/CVT: Reliable and comfortable, but the CVT felt dull, and I feel the naturally aspirated engine may not be exciting enough for highway driving. Kia Seltos Turbo DCT & Diesel AT: Feature-loaded, spacious, and family-friendly. The turbo-petrol feels quick, while the diesel AT feels effortless, but I am concerned about long-term DCT reliability and diesel DPF issues. Volkswagen Taigun/Skoda Kushaq 1.0 TSI AT: I loved the driving experience, stability, and engine performance. However, the cabin feels smaller compared to the Seltos. Volkswagen Taigun 1.5 DSG: I could not properly test its performance due to heavy city traffic. Volkswagen Virtus 1.0 TSI: This was the most confidence-inspiring car I drove, but my family is not keen on buying a sedan. Current concerns: My low annual running makes me question whether a diesel is the right choice due to DPF-related concerns. I am worried about the long-term reliability of turbo-petrol engines, DSG/DCT gearboxes, ethanol-blended fuel compatibility, and fuel economy. Naturally aspirated petrol engines seem more reliable, but I am concerned they may feel underpowered after driving a torquey diesel for years. Budget: Rs. 15-22 lakh on-road (Bangalore). The car will be purchased through my company lease program, so tax benefits will apply. Currently, my shortlist includes: Kia Seltos Turbo Petrol / Diesel AT Volkswagen Taigun 1.0 TSI AT (Highline or Topline) Considering my usage pattern and long-term ownership plans, which engine and powertrain would you recommend for the least-regret ownership experience?

Verified
7h

Given your usage and concerns, the Kia Seltos turbo-petrol DCT is the most sensible recommendation. Your 70% highway usage and weekend trips make diesel a good fit, and thIS Seltos diesel is a proven, reliable powertrain but the relatively short distance you cover over a month does not justify the premium you would pay for the diesel variant. The turbo-petrol has good punchy performance and is smooth to drive even in the city. Unlike the NA engine that is linear and laid back, the turbo-petrol feels lively and effortless. Yes, the efficiency won't be as good as diesel, but it is the nicer car to drive in comparison to others and with the uncertainty of diesel, it is the safer bet over a long term. Moreover, the cabin is refined, this Kia car offers good space and practicality and a more premium ownership experience than some of its rivals. The HTX trim will fit in your budget and gets a good amount of kit on offer.

VehicleKia Seltos

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Posted on: 13 Jul 2026