What are some of the best budget cars, or value for money cars in India? Let’s look at the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Kia Seltos 2023 to compare their variants for budget-conscious buyers.
In this article, we will discuss
- What a budget-conscious buyer looks for in a car
- Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara vs Kia Seltos 2023 – a comprehensive analysis of their variants, features, affordability, and fuel efficiency
- How to pick the right car for you
So, can these cars be considered the best budget mid-size SUVs? What affordable car options do they have in their lineup? Read on.
What a Budget-conscious Buyer Looks for in a Car
A budget-conscious buyer should look for these in a car:
- Affordability – a car should be affordable, and have low maintenance costs
- Fuel efficiency – The car shouldn’t guzzle fuel
- Safety features – Essential safety features are a must in a car
- Brand perception – Is the brand of the car known for its wide service network, after sales service, etc.
- Resale value – The car should fetch good resale rates
Budget-conscious car buyers prioritize vehicles that offer maximum value for their investment. They seek cars with affordable pricing, low running and maintenance costs, reliable performance, and good fuel efficiency. Safety features such as airbags and ABS are non-negotiable, as are basic comfort amenities like air conditioning and power steering.
They often prefer vehicles with good resale value, ensuring a financially sound purchase. Aesthetic appeal, while appreciated, is usually secondary to practicality and cost-effectiveness in their decision-making process.
Why Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Kia Seltos 2023 are Popular
Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Kia Seltos have gained popularity among budget-conscious buyers for their blend of affordability, functionality, and style.
The Grand Vitara is renowned for its excellent fuel efficiency, low maintenance costs, and reliable performance, making it a cost-effective option. Additionally, Maruti’s extensive service network adds to its appeal, ensuring easy and affordable upkeep.
On the other hand, the Kia Seltos stands out with its modern design, robust build quality, and well-appointed interiors. It offers a range of features that provide comfort and convenience without significantly inflating the price, making it an attractive choice for buyers seeking value for money.
Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Kia Seltos 2023 Variants Shortlist in Rs 10-12 Lakh Range
For Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 16 January 2024 |
| Sigma | ₹10,70,000 |
For Kia Seltos 2023, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 16 January 2024 |
| HTE | ₹10,90,000 |
| HTE Diesel iMT | ₹12,00,000 |
Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Sigma
The Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Sigma, priced at INR 10,70,000, is an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers. It offers essential safety features, decent engine power, and is known for its remarkable fuel efficiency. Its competitive pricing and Maruti’s reputation for affordability in maintenance make it a practical and economical option. If you’re looking for your first car, you can check out our comparison of the Grand Vitara with Honda Elevate.
Kia Seltos HTE
Kia Seltos HTE, with a price of INR 10,90,000, presents a strong case with its six airbags, offering enhanced safety. The petrol engine with 113.42 BHP provides a good balance of power and efficiency.
The Seltos is also known for its stylish design and comfortable interiors, making it a desirable option for those who seek additional features within a reasonable budget. If you’re a gadget enthusiast, you can read our comparison of the Seltos 2023 with Honda City.
Kia Seltos HTE Diesel iMT
The Kia Seltos HTE Diesel iMT, priced higher at INR 12,00,000, is ideal for buyers looking for the efficiency and torque of a diesel engine. The turbocharged engine with 114.41 BHP and AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) provides a smoother driving experience.
Despite its higher price, the diesel variant’s long-term fuel efficiency can be cost-effective for high-mileage users. If you’re looking for a family car, you can check out our comparison of the Seltos 2023 with Maruti Suzuki XL6 and Honda City.
Our Pick for the Best Variant among Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Kia Seltos 2023 for Budget-Conscious Buyers
Considering overall value for money, the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Sigma emerges as the best option for budget-conscious buyers. Its lower price point, combined with Maruti’s reputation for low maintenance costs and high fuel efficiency, makes it an ideal choice for those looking to minimize expenses. The Grand Vitara Sigma provides essential safety features and satisfactory performance, aligning well with the needs of budget-conscious buyers who prioritize practicality and cost-effectiveness over luxury features.
The 3 Variants Ranked in Order of Preference
- Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Sigma
- Kia Seltos HTE
- Kia Seltos HTE Diesel iMT
| Attribute | Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Sigma | Kia Seltos HTE | Kia Seltos HTE Diesel iMT |
| Airbags | Yes (2) | Yes (6) | Yes (6) |
| ABS | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Engine Power (BHP) | 101.64 | 113.42 | 114.41 |
| Price (INR) | 10,70,000 | 10,90,000 | 12,00,000 |
| Fuel Efficiency | High | Moderate | High (Diesel) |
| Turbocharging | No | No | Yes |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Sigma: Offers the best balance of affordability, essential features, and low running costs.
- Kia Seltos HTE: A close second, providing additional safety features and a more powerful engine, making it suitable for those who can stretch their budget slightly for enhanced safety and comfort.
- Kia Seltos HTE Diesel iMT: For buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and performance in a diesel variant, despite its higher upfront cost.
Each of these three variants offers unique advantages for the budget-conscious buyer. The Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Sigma stands out for its overall cost-effectiveness, the Kia Seltos HTE for its safety and power within a similar price range, and the Kia Seltos HTE Diesel iMT for its diesel efficiency and performance.
If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.
