What are some of the best performance cars in India? What makes them high-performance car models? Today, we take a look at Kia Seltos and Hyundai Verna, and find out what their performance is like, and why they appeal to performance enthusiasts.
In this article, we will share
- What a performance enthusiast should look for in a car
- Skoda Slavia vs Skoda Kushaq – A comprehensive analysis of their variants, performance and features
- How to pick the right car for you
These models are in different segments – Hyundai Verna is a mid-size sedan, while the Kia Seltos is a mid-size SUV. But how do they fare as fast cars? Read on.
Also read: 10 DC Design cars & how they look in the REAL world: Maruti Swift to Mahindra XUV500
What a Performance Enthusiast looks for in a car
Here’s what to look for in a car as a performance enthusiast:
- Acceleration and Speed – How quickly a car accelerates, what is its top speed
- Power – How it pulls weight, how is its high speed stability, does it feel strained while going up the hills, or with AC on
- Agility – How it behaves while turning at speeds
- Driving Experience/Handling – Is the gearbox smooth and responsive, how is its steering/braking performance
Performance enthusiasts crave cars that promise exhilarating speed, agility, and unmatched handling. A low 0-60 km/h acceleration time, powerful engine, responsive torque, good braking performance, and a stable drive at high speeds are pivotal.
Beyond performance, modern-day enthusiasts also value advanced driver assistance features and quality infotainment systems, striking a balance between thrill and modern conveniences.
Why Kia Seltos and Hyundai Verna are Popular
Both the Kia Seltos and Hyundai Verna have created ripples in the automobile market with their impeccable performance attributes.
Kia Seltos offers variants optimized for both petrol and diesel aficionados. Its diverse range of engine choices coupled with dependable handling makes it a favorite.
Hyundai Verna, on the other hand, boasts of agility and quick engine responsiveness, especially in its Turbo variants.
Both cars come loaded with the latest gadgets and feature top-notch safety and driver assistance options, making them more than just speed machines.
Kia Seltos and Hyundai Verna Variants Shortlist in Rs 13-15 Lakh Range
For Kia Seltos, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 22 August 2023 |
| HTK Plus | ₹ 1,310,000 |
| HTK Diesel iMT | ₹ 1,369,000 |
| HTK Plus iMT | ₹ 1,490,000 |
For Hyundai Verna, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 22 August 2023 |
| SX IVT | ₹ 1,423,000 |
| SX Turbo | ₹ 1,484,000 |
| SX Turbo DT | ₹ 1,484,000 |
Kia Seltos HTK Plus
This variant offers a decent 113.43 BHP with a petrol engine, guaranteeing a stable ride. Although the acceleration is moderate, it provides a seamless power delivery with minimal turbo lag. You can also read how the Seltos compares with Skoda Kushaq for tech-savvy gadget lovers.
Kia Seltos HTK Diesel iMT
Running on a diesel engine, it boasts the same BHP as the HTK Plus. However, its highlight is the impressive torque of 250 Nm, ensuring better pull and performance.
Kia Seltos HTK Plus iMT
With a higher BHP of 158 and torque of 253 Nm, this variant is a step up in terms of raw power. It combines performance with the comfort of iMT. We also have our guide to the best Kia Seltos variants for family-focused buyers.
Hyundai Verna SX IVT
This variant showcases moderate agility with an engine power of 113.18 BHP. The CVT transmission ensures smooth gear shifts, enhancing the driving experience.
Hyundai Verna SX Turbo & SX Turbo DT
These are the powerhouses with 157.57 BHP. Agility, minimal turbo lag, and quick engine responsiveness are its USPs, promising thrill at every turn. If you enjoy long-distance road trips, you can read how the Verna and Honda City compare with each other.
Our Pick for the Best variant among Kia Seltos and Hyundai Verna for Performance Enthusiasts
The crown undoubtedly goes to Hyundai Verna SX Turbo. The agile nature, combined with a powerful engine pushing 157.57 BHP and 253 Nm torque, ensures that performance enthusiasts get the rush they seek.
The turbocharged petrol engine offers minimal lag, ensuring power is always on tap. While Kia Seltos HTK Plus iMT does come close, the agility and responsiveness of the Verna SX Turbo are unparalleled.
The Top 3 choices
- Hyundai Verna SX Turbo
- Kia Seltos HTK Plus iMT
- Kia Seltos HTK Diesel iMT
| Attributes | Hyundai Verna SX Turbo | Kia Seltos HTK Plus iMT | Kia Seltos HTK Diesel iMT |
| # of cylinders | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Acceleration (0-60 km/h) | 7.85s | Moderate | Moderate |
| Agility | Agile | Moderate | Moderate |
| Audio System (Brand) | OEM | OEM | OEM |
| Body Roll | Minimal | Moderate | Not Relevant |
| Drive Type | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Engine – displacement (cc) | 1482 | 1482 | 1493 |
| Engine – power (BHP) | 157.57 | 158 | 113.43 |
| Engine – Torque (Nm) | 253 | 253 | 250 |
| High-Speed Stability | Stable | Stable | Stable |
| Power delivery | Linear | Linear | Linear |
| Top Speed (km/h) | 165 | 190 | 190 |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- Hyundai Verna SX Turbo offers an agile drive with a turbocharged punch, making it the top choice.
- The Kia Seltos HTK Plus iMT, with its impressive engine power, is a close second, while the HTK Diesel iMT shines with its torque.
For those passionate about performance, these variants ensure both thrill and value for money.
If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.
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