Kia cars in India (12)

autocar.india

•3h

If you like the Kia Seltos HTX IVT as a product but are not a fan of its looks, waiting for the next-generation Hyundai Creta could be a sensible option. The current Seltos and Creta are mechanically very similar, so the decision really comes down to design and personal preference. This next-generation Hyundai car is expected next year, so if you are not in a hurry, it is worth waiting for. If you need a car now, this Kia car remains a strong choice for your use case, thanks to its smooth CVT gearbox and comfortable cabin. Ultimately, if the Seltos’ design is a deal-breaker, waiting for the new Creta is the better decision.

Kia Seltos

autocar.india

•16h

Go for the Seltos HTK(O) IVT and spend the extra Rs 1.2 lakh. For a first-time driver who will predominantly drive in Mumbai and plans to keep the car for 8-10 years, the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol with IVT is a very sensible combination. The IVT is smooth and easy to drive in stop-go traffic, while the engine is refined and well suited to relaxed city driving.The extra equipment on the Seltos is also more than just a list of gimmicks. Ventilated seats, powered driver's seat and front parking sensors are features you can genuinely appreciate over a long ownership period, particularly in Mumbai. The larger infotainment screen and leatherette upholstery add to the everyday experience as well. The Seltos also has a slightly more spacious cabin and more premium feel.The Creta S(O) IVT remains a very good choice and saves Rs 1.2 lakh, but the price difference isn't large enough to justify choosing the lower-equipped car if you already value these features.

Kia Seltos

Hyundai Creta

autocar.india

•16h

At this price range, a hybrid is a good option, and there are two new options in that you should check out. On one hand is the just-launched new Kia Sorento, which is attractively priced between Rs 29.49 lakh to Rs 40.39 (ex-showroom) for the strong hybrid variant. It's a 3-row SUV with a generous features list and even the option of AWD in upper variants. While we are yet to review it, what you can expect is Kia quality, reliability and hassle-free ownership, as well as a smooth and efficient powertrain.The second option is the MG Hector Tomahawk, which is a bit smaller and positioned slightly lower, at Rs 25.7 lakh to Rs 27.8 lakh (ex-showroom), although deliveries are expected a little later than the Kia. If you don't need the added space, this could be a better option for you. The difference is, where the Kia is a self-charging strong hybrid, the MG is a plug-in hybrid or PHEV. This means it has a larger 20.5kWh battery that you can charge from a plug, and a much longer electric only range, leading to greater efficiency overall and the potential to run it as an EV only for city use. The disadvantage, of course, is having to charge it like an EV to get its full potential.

Kia Sorento

MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV

autocar.india

•22h

Wait for the Honda Elevate facelift if you are not in a hurry, as it is expected in the first week of October. The mechanical package is expected to remain unchanged - the proven 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with a CVT automatic. The important additions are likely to be a 360-degree camera, ventilated front seats, a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, revised styling and some ADAS updates.Given that you have owned Honda City automatics for 16 years, the Elevate is a natural choice. Its simple 1.5-litre petrol-CVT combination, comfortable ride, good visibility and proven mechanicals make it particularly well suited to long-term ownership.If you want to consider alternatives, the Toyota Hyryder/Maruti Victoris are worth looking at, particularly if fuel efficiency is important. The Kia Seltos is more spacious and feels more premium, while the Skoda Kushaq is the better choice if driving enjoyment matters.However, for your priorities and your long association with Honda, the Elevate remains one of the strongest choices.

Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder

Honda City

Maruti Suzuki Victoris

Kia Seltos

Skoda Kushaq