What are some of the best budget cars, or value for money cars in India? Let’s look at Kia Seltos and Skoda Kushaq to see which variants in their lineup are affordable car options in the mid-size SUV segment in India.
In this article, we will discuss
- What a value-for-money buyer looks for in a car
- Kia Seltos vs Skoda Kushaq – a comprehensive analysis of their variants, features, affordability, and fuel efficiency
- How to pick the right car for you
Also read: 10 DC Design cars & how they look in the REAL world: Maruti Swift to Mahindra XUV500
What a Value-conscious 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
For value-conscious buyers in India, getting maximum features and performance at an affordable price point is the top priority. Good fuel efficiency, sufficient safety equipment, low maintenance costs and reliability are also important considerations.
Why Kia Seltos and Skoda Kushaq are popular
The Seltos and Kushaq score high among value-focused buyers. The Seltos variants under ₹15 lakhs offer robust safety and creature comforts coupled with Kia’s reliability. The Kushaq provides European build quality and driving dynamics at aggressive prices. Both offer economical ownership experience.
Kia Seltos and Skoda Kushaq shortlisted value-for-money variants in Rs 12-15 Lakh Range
For Kia Seltos, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 23 October 2023 |
| HTE Diesel iMT | ₹12,00,000 |
| HTK Plus | ₹13,50,000 |
| HTK Plus iMT | ₹15,00,000 |
For Skoda Kushaq, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 23 October 2023 |
| 1.0 TSI Onyx | ₹12,39,000 |
| 1.0 TSI Ambition | ₹13,34,000 |
Kia Seltos HTE Diesel iMT
The Seltos HTE iMT is the cheapest variant on this list, and focuses on safety and basics like 6 airbags, projector headlamps, manual AC at an aggressive price point. If you’re a performance enthusiast, you can read our comparison of the Seltos with Volkswagen Taigun.
Kia Seltos HTK Plus
The HTK Plus adds more comforts like rear AC vents, steering controls, keyless entry and 16-inch alloys while maintaining affordability.
Kia Seltos HTK Plus iMT
The HTK Plus iMT brings the powerful yet frugal 1.5 diesel engine with 6-speed manual keeping the price accessible. If you’re a family-focused car buyer, you can read our guide to the best Seltos variants for you.
Skoda Kushaq 1.0 TSI Onyx
The Kushaq Onyx maximizes value with 2 airbags, auto headlamps, 16-inch wheels and 7-inch touchscreen at an entry price.
Skoda Kushaq 1.0 TSI Ambition
The 1.0 TSI Ambition adds crucial equipment like rear parking camera, auto wipers and 16-inch alloys while keeping the budget price tag. We have also compared the Kushaq with Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara for budget-conscious buyers.
Our Pick for the Most Value for Money variant among Kia Seltos and Skoda Kushaq
The Skoda Kushaq 1.0 TSI Ambition is the best value-for-money variant. At ₹13.34 lakhs, it provides European build quality, mature driving dynamics and low cost of ownership.
More importantly, over the equivalent Seltos, it offers big value adds like ESC, auto wipers, rear sensors, telescopic steering adjustment, clutter-free dashboard and 2 years maintenance package as standard. This improves the ownership experience substantially without compromising on safety or equipment.
The Top 3 Choices
- Skoda Kushaq 1.0 TSI Ambition
- Kia Seltos HTK Plus
- Kia Seltos HTK Plus iMT
| Attribute | Kushaq 1.0 TSI Ambition | Seltos HTK Plus | Seltos HTK Plus iMT |
| ESC | Yes | No | No |
| Rear Sensors | Yes | No | No |
| Telescopic Steering | Yes | No | No |
| Auto Wipers | Yes | No | No |
| 2 Years Maintenance | Yes | No | No |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- Skoda Kushaq 1.0 TSI Ambition: Unbeatable value with essential safety, comforts and 2 years maintenance.
- Kia Seltos HTK Plus: Well-equipped for the price with auto headlamps, steering controls and UVO lite.
- Kia Seltos HTK Plus iMT: Most affordable way to get the efficient 1.5 diesel engine in the Seltos range.
In summary, the Kushaq Ambition stands tall as the variant that extracts the maximum value by providing essential features, enjoyable driving experience and low ownership cost in one complete package. The Seltos HTK Plus and HTK iMT are also compelling value choices in the slightly higher budget.
If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.
Also read: Upcoming 2022 Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza rendered
