The automotive market has witnessed a recent surge in the crossover SUV segment, with Hyundai and Kia, two prominent Korean manufacturers, unveiling facelifted versions of their popular models, the Creta and Seltos. As of January 18, 2024, here's a comprehensive comparison to help potential buyers make an informed decision.
1. Design and Dimensions
Both the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos showcase distinctive designs, with subtle differences. Despite sharing the same platform, the Seltos appears longer and wider, while the Creta boasts a taller profile. Key dimensions include:
Kia Seltos:
- Length: 4365 mm
- Width: 1800 mm
- Height: 1645 mm
Hyundai Creta:
- Length: 4330 mm
- Width: 1790 mm
- Height: 1635 mm
The choice between the two might depend on individual preferences for design elements and dimensions. Additionally, the top-spec X-Line variant of the Seltos comes with larger 18-inch wheels compared to the Creta's top-spec SX(O) trim with 17-inch alloy wheels.
2. Interior Features
Both the Creta and Seltos offer a rich set of features, ensuring a comfortable and connected driving experience. Shared features include:
- Automatic LED headlights
- Connected LED DRLs with LED headlights
- 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment
- 10.25-inch fully digital display
- Wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- Connected car tech
- Panoramic sunroof
- 360-degree camera
- Ventilated front seats
- Ambient lighting
- 8-speaker Bose audio system
While the overall interior layout is similar, the Seltos gains an edge with a Head-up display in its top-spec X-Line trim.
3. Safety Features
In terms of safety, both the Creta and Seltos are well-equipped with standard features, including:
- 6 airbags
- Electronic stability program
- Front and rear parking sensors
- ISOFIX seat mounts
Higher variants of both models include advanced safety features such as a tyre pressure monitoring system, blind spot view monitor, and Level 2 ADAS suites with adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and lane change warning.
4. Powertrain Specs
The Creta and Seltos share identical engine options with the same power and torque outputs:
- 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine
- 1.5-litre diesel engine
- 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine
However, there are slight variations in transmission choices, with both manual and automatic options available. The diesel engine in the Seltos offers a 6-speed iMT and 6-speed torque converter automatic, while the Creta provides a 6-speed torque converter and a traditional manual transmission. The turbo petrol engine in the Creta exclusively pairs with a 7-speed DCT auto gearbox, while the Seltos has an additional option of the 6-speed iMT.
5. Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is a critical factor for many buyers, and both manufacturers claim competitive figures. Here's a quick comparison:
- 2024 Hyundai Creta:
- 1.5L Petrol MT: 17.4 kmpl
- 1.5L Petrol CVT: 17.7 kmpl
- 1.5L Turbo Petrol DCT: 18.4 kmpl
- 1.5L Diesel MT: 21.8 kmpl
- 1.5L Diesel AT: 19.1 kmpl
- Kia Seltos:
- 1.5L Petrol MT: 17 kmpl
- 1.5L Petrol CVT: 17.7 kmpl
- 1.5L Turbo Petrol iMT: 17.7 kmpl
- 1.5L Diesel iMT: 20.7 kmpl
- 1.5L Diesel AT: 19.1 kmpl
6. Price
Introductory ex-showroom prices reveal a competitive edge for the Seltos in terms of starting prices, while the Creta has a higher price for the top-spec trim. It's important to note that these are introductory prices for the Creta, subject to revision in the coming months.
- Kia Seltos: Rs 10.89 lakh to Rs 20.30 lakh
- 2024 Hyundai Creta: Rs 11 lakh to Rs 20.15 lakh
Choosing between the 2024 Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos depends on individual preferences, ranging from design aesthetics and interior features to powertrain options and pricing. This comprehensive comparison highlights the key aspects, aiding potential buyers in making an informed decision based on their specific needs and priorities.