I'm happy to choose either the Kia Seltos diesel or the Mahindra XUV 7XO diesel, as you suggested. However, I'm concerned about DPF issues. My usage is around 40km daily in Bangalore city, along with 3-5 highway trips every month.
With a 40km daily commute in Bangalore and 3-5 highway runs a month, you are actually in a good position for a modern diesel. The DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) issue is a concern mainly for cars that do only very short, stop-start city runs with no opportunity for the filter to regenerate. Your 3 to 5 highway runs every month should suffice in keeping the DPF clean; you would have long enough stretches for the car to reach operating temperature and allow passive regeneration to occur.
Between the Kia Seltos and the XUV 7XO diesel, the decision comes down to priorities. The Seltos diesel is the more refined and polished package, with a smoother engine and a more premium cabin experience. The Mahindra XUV 7XO diesel is the more powerful and more spacious car, with a stronger engine and a more commanding road presence. If you value refinement and a more premium feel, go for the Kia car. If you want more power, more space and a more rugged feel, go for the Mahindra car.
The key point is that with your usage pattern, the DPF should not be a deal-breaker. Both cars are strong diesel options, and your driving routine is well-suited to modern diesel ownership.

Kia Seltos
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@jayesh.n Go for Seltos
@jayesh.n Go for Seltos
@jayesh.n Go for XUV 7XO because powerful and spacious
To the editor. You make it obvious that you always promote Kia Hyundai between the lines as if Kia is some engineering marvel
Good recommendation 👍
Buy a nexon diesel, no DPF no worries
Bcz normally diesel engine is very good for long trip also its a beast view in automobile industry
Pet peeve - Skoda Kushaq, VW Taigun and Aircross X not available in Diesel. What a loss of torque !!
Both excellent vehicles chosen in their respective class. But considering the Seltos necessitates considering the Kia Carens Clavis diesel for 2 extra seats and attractive pricing.
@praveen_n_k Hyundia and kia is full of problems.
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Posted on: 18 Jul 2026
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