Hyundai Creta

The 2024 Hyundai Creta SX (O) makes more sense. Both SUVs are mechanically identical and are powered by the same 115hp, 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine paired to a 6-speed manual gearbox. 

The 2026 Kia Seltos HTK (O) is also a good option, since it's a newer model and has slightly more interior space. But it is a lower variant and hence misses out on some features compared to the Creta SX (O). It includes dual-zone auto climate control, ambient lighting, 360-degree camera, auto-dimming IRVM, ventilated front seats and more.

With 75 percent of your usage in the city, we would recommend the more relaxed and smoother CVT in either the Kia Seltos or the Hyundai Creta (called IVT by both brands). Unless you specifically want the extra performance of the turbo petrol DCT, which comes at the cost of some smoothness and efficiency in slow traffic.

On paper, the Creta may appear to offer better value for money, but it is also worth considering that the Seltos is the newer car. It is slightly larger, offers more space, a bigger boot and has a noticeably more premium fit and finish. It also gets larger and more modern infotainment and digital instrument screens. 

In our view, the newer Seltos makes more sense today, especially as the Creta is expected to be replaced by an all-new generation early next year. It could make the current model feel dated sooner.

The Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara AT will prove to be more efficient, but the gap will not be all that large. Sure, the mild hybrid setup does help, assisting the engine and reducing load. But the bigger benefits come when the engine stop/start is also used. Engine stop/start automatically switches the engine off at long halts and restarts it when you are ready to move, in the interest of saving fuel. 

Trouble is, the AC compressor also goes off with the engine, so on a hot day, you'd rather leave the feature turned off. Do note, engine stop/start is a feature you'd find on the Hyundai Creta IVT too. 

The Grand Vitara should be more reasonable in terms of maintenance and service costs, though. 

Strictly speaking, on product attributes, the Creta IVT is a superior package. It's got a smoother gearbox, better performance and is also roomier than the Grand Vitara. The Creta IVT in base EX(O) trim is pricier than the base Grand Vitara AT Delta, but would still be our pick if you don't mind the stretch.  

 

The Hyundai Creta 1.5 MPI in base E trim and the Creta 1.5 diesel in base E trim are no different in features. Essentially, your question boils down to petrol versus diesel. 

Interestingly, both engines make the same 115hp of power, but it's the diesel's significantly higher 250Nm torque figure (versus the petrol's 145Nm) that makes all the difference. 

The diesel feels significantly stronger, and the difference is most felt on the highway or when you need to overtake in a hurry. The engine is also quite refined for a diesel and will deliver significantly better fuel economy than the petrol. The only catch is that modern diesels require longish drives at a steady pace every couple of weeks (say on a highway drive) to let the engine internals run optimally. 

If you can work this into your routine, the diesel is easily the better version to go for.   

The choice really comes down to what you are looking for from your car, and without knowing that its hard to pinpoint one. If you drive mainly in the city, we would rule out the Harrier. It is quite large, and though the steering on the petrol is light, on the whole, the car does not really feel nimble on its feet. 

It is best for highways and longer drives. Between the Tata Sierra and the Hyundai Creta, the Sierra has the advantage of newness and novelty value. You will also get more equipment, like a three-screen setup, a better-sounding audio system and a powered tailgate. However, you will have to pay more than Creta. Thus, if your budget is strict, then the Hyundai Creta will prove to be a very good all-rounder.