The mid-size SUV segment in India has seen numerous contenders over the years, but few have made as significant an impact as the Hyundai Creta. Since its launch in 2015, the Creta has become a household name, dominating the market with over 10 lakh units sold in just eight and a half years. Its impressive sales figures, combined with the claim that Hyundai sells a Creta every five minutes in India, underscore its popularity. However, maintaining top position in such a competitive segment is no small feat, and Hyundai has recently given the Creta a thorough makeover for 2024 to stay ahead of the game. Let’s See the battle of Hyundai Creta vs Kia Seltos 😁.
Hyundai Creta vs Kia Seltos
On the other side of this rivalry is the Kia Seltos, a sibling in the Hyundai-Kia family that competes directly with the Creta. Despite their shared underpinnings and similar engine options, the Creta and Seltos offer distinct experiences. Both have received updates recently, making it an ideal time to compare these two popular SUVs. Let’s delve into the details and see how they stack up against each other.
Design and Aesthetics
When it comes to design, both the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos present compelling arguments, but in different ways.
Hyundai Creta:
The 2024 Hyundai Creta has undergone a significant facelift that brings a fresh, modern look to this popular SUV. The new design features a more squared-off front end compared to the previous model, giving it a contemporary yet conventional appeal. At the rear, the updates include a seamless light bar that adds sophistication. The new Creta’s design is likely to attract a broader audience, thanks in part to its new dark green metallic paint, which is particularly striking in daylight.
Kia Seltos:
In contrast, the Kia Seltos stands out with its bold and aggressive design. It commands more attention on the road due to its sharper styling and more substantial proportions. The Seltos is marginally wider, taller, and longer than the Creta, which contributes to its imposing road presence. The top-trim GTX+ / X-Line variant features larger 18-inch alloys, enhancing its visual appeal. If aesthetics are your priority, the Seltos’ sporty and youthful design may give it the edge over the Creta.
Engine and Performance
Both SUVs offer a range of engine options, but there are subtle differences in their performance characteristics.
Hyundai Creta:
The Creta and Seltos share identical powertrains, including 1.5-litre naturally aspirated (NA) petrol, diesel, and turbo-petrol engines. The 1.5 NA petrol engine delivers 113 bhp and 144 Nm of torque, providing smooth and adequate power for daily driving. However, it tends to lose steam at higher RPMs. The turbocharged petrol engine, on the other hand, is a standout performer with 158 bhp and 253 Nm of torque. This engine, paired with a quick-shifting DCT gearbox, offers brisk performance and low NVH levels. However, it is relatively less fuel-efficient and comes with a premium price.
Kia Seltos:
The Seltos matches the Creta’s engine options but differentiates itself with a 6-speed iMT (clutch-pedal-less manual) transmission for the diesel and turbo-petrol variants, whereas the Creta offers a 6-speed manual unit. Performance-wise, both SUVs are comparable, but the Seltos’ turbocharged engine is equally capable, offering a strong mid-range and top-end performance.
Features and Equipment
When it comes to features, both the Creta and Seltos are well-equipped, but there are some notable differences.
Hyundai Creta:
The top-spec variants of the Creta include a dual-screen setup, dual-zone air conditioning, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, and a comprehensive ADAS suite. The Creta’s cabin feels more premium and spacious, with large, easy-to-use buttons and plush upholstery. However, it misses out on some features compared to the Seltos, such as fog lamps, a dynamic instrument cluster mode, and multi-color ambient lighting.
Kia Seltos:
The Seltos, particularly in the GTX+ and X-Line trims, offers additional features like a head-up display and rain-sensing wipers. Its interior is stylish and modern, with a variety of upholstery options and advanced technology like a larger touchscreen and a Bose sound system. The Seltos’ cabin design is sleek and appealing, although it may lack some of the practical touches found in the Creta.
Ride and Handling
The ride quality and handling characteristics of these SUVs differ significantly, which can influence your driving experience.
Hyundai Creta:
The Creta is known for its comfort-oriented suspension setup. Its soft suspension absorbs rough surfaces effortlessly, providing a smooth and pleasant ride. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize comfort over sporty driving dynamics.
Kia Seltos:
The Seltos, with its stiffer suspension and larger wheels, offers a more engaging driving experience. While it handles better around corners and feels more connected to the road, this comes at the expense of ride comfort. The Seltos can feel jittery on rough surfaces, making it less ideal for those who value a smooth ride.
Verdict
In the “Creta vs Seltos” showdown, choosing the right SUV depends on your preferences and priorities. The Hyundai Creta excels as an all-rounder, offering comfort, practicality, and a more premium-feeling interior. It remains a top choice for a wide range of buyers due to its well-rounded nature and Hyundai’s strong dealer network across India.
On the other hand, the Kia Seltos shines with its aggressive design, additional features, and sportier driving dynamics. If you’re looking for a more stylish and engaging driving experience, the Seltos is worth considering.
Ultimately, if you’re after an SUV that covers all bases effectively and offers great value, the Hyundai Creta is the more practical choice. However, for those who prioritize design and driving excitement, the Kia Seltos might be the better pick.
Both SUVs have their strengths and cater to different segments of the market. Whether you choose the Creta or the Seltos, you’re investing in a vehicle that brings both style and substance to the table.
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