Skoda Slavia vs Kia Seltos 2023: Comparing Their Variants Priced Rs 14-16 Lakh for Performance Enthusiasts

What are some of the best performance cars, or top sports cars in India? What makes them high-performance car models? Today, we are looking at the Skoda Slavia and Kia Seltos 2023. Let’s see how their variants compare with each other in terms of performance.

In this article, we will share

• What a performance enthusiast should look for in a car
• Skoda Slavia vs Kia Seltos 2023 – a comprehensive analysis of their variants, performance and features
• How to pick the right car for you

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 prioritize fast cars with robust engine power, quick acceleration, and high top speed. They value attributes like low turbo lag, smooth power delivery, and responsive engines. Handling characteristics such as agility, minimal body roll, and high-speed stability are crucial. 

Additionally, a well-tuned suspension system, efficient transmission (manual or advanced automatic), and good traction control significantly enhance the driving experience in quick cars. Interior aspects like ergonomic seating, quality audio systems, and intuitive control layouts can also contribute to the overall enjoyment and control during spirited driving.

Why Skoda Slavia and Kia Seltos 2023 are Popular

Skoda Slavia and Kia Seltos have garnered attention from performance enthusiasts due to their well-rounded attributes that cater to dynamic driving needs. Both models offer a balance of power and handling, with variants featuring turbocharged engines that deliver linear power and minimal turbo lag, ensuring quick acceleration. 

Their high-speed stability and agility make them suitable for enthusiastic driving. Additionally, the Skoda Slavia’s sleek design and Kia Seltos’s modern aesthetic appeal to those who value style as much as substance. 

These models also offer advanced transmission options, ensuring responsive gear shifts, and are equipped with traction control and electronic stability control for enhanced safety. The combination of these performance traits with practical features like spacious interiors and modern infotainment systems makes them popular choices among performance-oriented drivers.

Skoda Slavia and Kia Seltos 2023 Variants Shortlist in Rs 14-16 Lakh Range

For Kia Seltos 2023, we have:

Variant	Price (INR) as on 2 January 2024
HTK Plus Diesel iMT	₹15,00,000
HTK Plus iMT	₹15,00,000
HTX	₹15,20,000

For Skoda Slavia, we have:

Variant	Price (INR) as on 2 January 2024
1.5 TSI Ambition	₹15,04,000
1.0 TSI Style	₹15,12,000
1.0 TSI Style Matte	₹15,52,000

Kia Seltos HTK Plus Diesel iMT

This diesel variant offers stable handling and moderate agility, suitable for performance enthusiasts who prefer diesel engines. Its turbocharger ensures linear power delivery, making it an attractive option.

Kia Seltos HTK Plus iMT

Similar to its diesel counterpart, this petrol variant provides stable handling and is equipped with a turbocharger for consistent power output. Its petrol engine might appeal more to those who prefer smoother power delivery. If you’re a tech-savvy gadget lover, you can check out our comparison of the Seltos 2023 with Mahindra Scorpio-N.

Kia Seltos HTX

This model enhances the driving experience with LED headlights for better visibility and a larger touchscreen. It maintains the linearity and stability of the HTK Plus variants, making it a solid choice for performance driving.

Skoda Slavia 1.5 TSI Ambition

Stands out with its agile handling and minimal body roll, complemented by a powerful turbocharged petrol engine. It offers a quick power delivery, making it highly appealing for performance enthusiasts. If you’re looking for a family car, you can read our comparison of the Slavia with Maruti Suzuki Ciaz.

Skoda Slavia 1.0 TSI Style

This variant provides balanced performance with good engine responsiveness and handling. Its modern design and comprehensive feature set make it a strong contender.

Skoda Slavia 1.0 TSI Style Matte

Similar to the 1.0 TSI Style, this variant offers agile handling and a responsive engine. The Matte edition adds a unique aesthetic appeal, enhancing its desirability for those who also value style. If you’re a long-distance road trip lover, you can check out our comparison of the Slavia with Honda City and Hyundai Verna.

Our Pick for the Best Variant among Skoda Slavia and Kia Seltos 2023 for Performance Enthusiasts

The Skoda Slavia 1.5 TSI Ambition emerges as the best choice for performance enthusiasts. This variant stands out with its agile handling and minimal body roll, critical for dynamic driving experiences. 

The 1.5 TSI turbocharged petrol engine offers a quick and linear power delivery, ensuring rapid acceleration and a high top speed, which are key attributes for performance driving. Its 6-speed transmission allows for responsive and smooth gear shifts, adding to the driving pleasure. 

Furthermore, the car’s stability at high speeds and robust build quality make it both enjoyable and safe for spirited driving. Its modern interior, including a quality audio system and ergonomic seating, enhances the overall driving experience. 

Thus, the Skoda Slavia 1.5 TSI Ambition perfectly combines performance, handling, and comfort, making it the top pick for performance enthusiasts.

The Top 3 Choices

1. Skoda Slavia 1.5 TSI Ambition
2. Skoda Slavia 1.0 TSI Style
3. Kia Seltos HTX

Attribute	Skoda Slavia 1.5 TSI Ambition	Skoda Slavia 1.0 TSI Style	Kia Seltos HTX
Engine Power (BHP)	147.51	113.98	113.42
Engine Torque (Nm)	250	178	144
High-Speed Stability	Stable	Stable	Stable
Agility	Agile	Agile	Moderate
Turbocharging	Yes	Yes	No
Acceleration (0-60 km/h)	Quick	Moderate	Moderate
Top Speed (km/h)	High	Moderate	Moderate
Transmission – # of gears	6	6	6
Traction Control	Yes	Yes	Yes

How to Pick the Right Car for You

• Skoda Slavia 1.5 TSI Ambition: Tops the list with its exceptional engine power and torque, providing exhilarating acceleration and high-speed capability. Its agility and stable handling make it ideal for spirited driving.
• Skoda Slavia 1.0 TSI Style: Offers a balanced performance with good engine responsiveness and handling. While it has less power than the 1.5 TSI Ambition, it still delivers a satisfying driving experience, suitable for those who want a blend of performance and style.
• Kia Seltos HTX: While it doesn’t match the power and agility of the Skoda variants, it offers a stable and comfortable driving experience. This variant is a good option for those who prefer a more subdued performance profile but still desire a car with good handling and stability.

These cars offer a blend of power, handling, and comfort, making them suitable for drivers who seek an engaging and thrilling driving experience.

If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.