What are some of the value for money cars in India? Let’s look at the Volkswagen Taigun and Kia Seltos 2023 to see which variants in their lineup are affordable car options in the compact and mid-size SUV segments in India.
In this article, we will discuss
- What a value-for-money buyer looks for in a car
- Volkswagen Taigun vs Kia Seltos 2023 – a comprehensive analysis of their variants, features, affordability, and fuel efficiency
- How to pick the right car for you
What a Value-for-Money Buyer Looks for in a Car
A value-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
Value buyers seek the optimal mix of features, performance and efficiency at a justifiable price. Good fuel economy, ample safety equipment, decent power and torque, latest gadgets like touchscreens and rear camera and ample cabin space get priority.
Reliability, low maintenance costs and widespread service network also impact buying decisions. Premium creature comforts take a back seat but core functionality along with peace of mind ownership cannot be compromised within a tight budget.
Why Volkswagen Taigun and Kia Seltos 2023 are popular
Both Taigun and Seltos 2023 strike a fine balance between features, efficiency and affordable pricing that appeals to value buyers. Their turbo-petrol and diesel engines deliver up to 20.8km/l fuel efficiency along with torquey performance.
Safety scores highly with 6 airbags, vehicle stability management, hill assist, disc brakes all around etc. Interiors provide 17.8 cm touchscreen, multi-function steering, auto climate control, push button start, wireless charging, multiple USB ports, cooled glovebox and more. Exterior styling is bold and contemporary.
Cost of maintenance is reasonable for both brands while their wide dealership presence offers peace of mind. Prices extend to mid and upper variants as well enabling buyers to opt for more features without blowing the budget. Overall, the Taigun and Seltos get most things right to meet value-buyer expectations.
Volkswagen Taigun and Kia Seltos 2023 variants shortlist in Rs 13-15 lakh range
For Volkswagen Taigun, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 13 February 2024 |
| 1.0 TSI Highline | ₹13.70 Lakhs |
For Kia Seltos 2023, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 13 February 2024 |
| HTK Plus | ₹13.50 Lakhs |
| HTK Diesel iMT | ₹13.60 Lakhs |
Volkswagen Taigun 1.0 TSI Highline
The Volkswagen Taigun 1.0 TSI Highline is competitively priced at Rs. 13.70 lakhs. Its turbocharged 999cc petrol engine gives 20.08 km/l mileage for efficiency along with 113.98BHP power and 178Nm torque for solid performance.
The long features list adds immense value with 6 airbags, electronic stabilization control, auto headlamps, 16” alloys, 10.25” touchscreen, cooled glovebox, auto climate control, cruise control and more. Interiors feel upmarket while maintenance costs are reasonable. If you’re a tech-savvy car buyer, you can check out our comparison of the Taigun with Hyundai Creta 2024.
Kia Seltos HTK Plus & Diesel iMT
Among Seltos variants, the HTK Plus petrol packs in 6 airbags, 16” alloys, 17.78cm touchscreen, wireless phone charging, push button start, multiple drive modes etc at just Rs. 13.50 lakhs. Mileage of 17km/l is good enough. It misses out on a rear camera which is available in the diesel iMT variant costing Rs. 13.60 lakhs.
The punchy diesel motor gives 20.8km/l economy while torque stands at 250Nm. Rest of the features match the petrol. Both variants get Kia’s extensive service network. If you’re a performance enthusiast, you can check out our comparison of the Seltos 2023 with MG Hector.
Our Pick for the Best variant among Volkswagen Taigun and Kia Seltos 2023 for Value-for-money buyers
The Kia Seltos HTK Diesel iMT emerges as the best value pick from the shortlisted variants. Priced at Rs. 13.60 lakhs, it strikes the best balance between features, performance and efficiency. The frugal 1.5L diesel engine delivers 20.8 km/l ARAI-rated fuel economy to enhance the ownership experience via low running costs. Power and torque output stand at a healthy 114BHP and 250Nm enabling stress-free city driving and highway cruising.
The top-spec HTK iMT variant also packs in a heavy dose of features including 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, auto headlamps, 17.78cm Smart Pure touchscreen, push button start/stop, cooled glovebox, drive and traction modes and wireless phone charging. Front seats get leatherette upholstery while interiors feel premium. Exteriors remain identical to petrol version with projector headlamps, crystal cut alloys, roof rails etc.
In comparison, the VW Taigun Highline does have an edge with added kit like ESC, cruise control and auto climate control. But it costs Rs. 20,000 more while matching the Seltos’ safety and features. For diesel-seeking value buyers, the Seltos HTK Diesel iMT’s optimal pricing clinches the top spot.
The 3 Variants Ranked in Order of Preference
- Kia Seltos HTK Diesel iMT
- Kia Seltos HTK Plus
- VW Taigun 1.0 TSI Highline
| Feature | Kia Seltos HTK Diesel iMT | Kia Seltos HTK Plus | VW Taigun Highline |
| Mileage (km/l) | 20.8 | 17 | 20.08 |
| Airbags | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| Rear Camera | Yes | No | Yes |
| Alloy Wheels | Yes | Yes | Yes |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- Our top preference is the Kia Seltos HTK Diesel iMT for the potent diesel engine, ample safety tech, extensive features and competitive pricing. The fuel-sipping motor enhances the value quotient greatly via lower running costs while power and torque output keeps enthusiasts happy. Variants below it compromise on essentials like rear parking camera or miss out on the efficient diesel option.
- The Seltos HTK Plus petrol variant takes second spot. Priced at just Rs. 13.50 lakhs, it packs in a strong features list including airbags, ABS, auto headlamps, rear parking sensors, 17.78cm touchscreen system, wireless charging, push button start/stop, drive and traction modes etc. The 1.5L petrol gives 17km/l mileage. Only sore misses are rear camera and cruise control.
- In third place is the VW Taigun 1.0 TSI Highline. Its turbo-petrol engine delivers 20km/l fuel efficiency and exhilarating performance. Kit list is very generous with 6 airbags, electronic stability control, auto headlamps, 16” alloy wheels, 10.25” touchscreen, digital driver display, cooled glovebox, height-adjustable driver’s seat, auto climate control, cruise control and more. But it is the priciest in this comparo at Rs. 13.70 lakhs.
If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.