I’m planning to buy a new car, and my annual running is around 40,000km, primarily involving highway drives and ghat sections. I have shortlisted the Kia Seltos Diesel HTX and the upcoming facelifted Toyota Innova Hycross ZX. I’m considering two approaches: either buy the Innova Hycross and keep it for the next 10 years, given its reputation for longevity and the expectation that its engine can last at least 4 lakh kilometres, or buy the Seltos, drive it for around 2 lakh kilometres over 4–5 years, sell it and upgrade to a brand-new Seltos or another car of a similar price and size. On paper, the Innova Hycross Hybrid seems like the better choice, considering its long-term reliability and features such as the Ottoman reclining seats. However, I’m concerned that I might get bored of it after four years or that it may start feeling outdated as newer technologies and features enter the market. This makes the second option appealing, as it would allow me to upgrade to a brand-new car every 4–5 years. Which approach would make more sense in the long run, considering my high annual running and ownership costs?

autocar.india

•1h

If you have the budget, the Kia Seltos IVT would be the best option for your needs. The Seltos' powertrain with the naturally aspirated engine and CVT gearbox is superb for the city and compared to the Honda Elevate it is a lot more feature-rich and practical. Space is good, seats are comfy and the engine is responsive too. The Elevate brings Honda's reliability but misses out on space, practicality and features compared to the Seltos. As a first car, the Seltos has easy to drive manners and will be a good choice for you.

Kia Seltos

Honda Elevate

autocar.india

•20h

Both models are good in their own meaning. However, it is the Kia Seltos that we'd recommend for your usage. It's built on a newer and superior platform that delivers a more refined experience with better noise insulation. Ride comfort is also better on the Seltos and there is ample space for five members of the family to sit in comfort. Further because it uses a new electronic architecture, it gets the latest software and hardware, including wireless connectivity for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, which is missing on the Carens Clavis. There is also some comfort in knowing that the new Kia Seltos is a five-star Bharat NCAP-rated car. The 160hp 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine and 7-speed dual-clutch transmission are common to the two so performance-wise there is not going to be much difference.The Carens Clavis makes more sense if you have a genuine need for a third row of seats or if you will be carrying more luggage. With the third row folded, the Clavis is more accommodating than the Seltos.

Kia Seltos

Kia Carens Clavis

autocar.india

•15h

The Kia Seltos is a strong choice given your requirements and budget. The Seltos in its GTX (A) guise is extremely well-equipped, with a proven powertrain: a 1.5-litre petrol engine and CVT gearbox. It is smooth and easy to drive in the city with no jerks usually seen on automatic gearboxes. Since you are used to good driving dynamics from the Ecosport, you will also enjoy the Seltos as it has good handling manners. The ride comfort is also very good, and the infotainment is one of the best in the segment. In its GTX guise, you get the expected safety suite of 6 airbags and electronics, but also Level 2 ADAS. Overall, as a package, the Seltos would be our top recommendation.

Kia Seltos