Thinking about buying a stylish and feature-packed automatic SUV in India, but worried about breaking the bank? Well, fret no more! Kia Motors has introduced two exciting new additions to the Seltos lineup – the HTK+ Petrol CVT and HTK+ Diesel AT. These variants offer a compelling combination of affordability and automatic comfort, making them ideal for city driving and highway cruising alike. But which one is the right choice for you? Dive into this comprehensive breakdown to find your perfect Seltos match!
Understanding Your Needs: Petrol vs. Diesel
Before we delve into the specifics of each variant, let’s address the age-old question: petrol or diesel? Here’s a quick rundown to help you decide:
- Petrol: Known for its smooth operation, quieter engine noise, and lower upfront costs. Perfect for those who primarily do city driving and prioritize a pleasant driving experience.
- Diesel: Offers superior fuel efficiency and higher torque, making it ideal for long highway trips and those seeking better mileage. However, diesel engines can be noisier and have slightly higher maintenance costs.
The Powertrain Punch
1. HTK+ Petrol CVT
The HTK+ Petrol CVT boasts a 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol engine churning out 115 PS of power and 144 Nm of torque. This engine is paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) for seamless gear shifts and a comfortable driving experience. While not the most powerful option, it offers a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency, making it suitable for everyday commutes and occasional highway runs.
2. HTK+ Diesel AT
The HTK+ Diesel AT, on the other hand, packs a punch with its 1.5L CRDi diesel engine generating 115 PS of power and a much higher torque figure of 250 Nm. This engine is mated to a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission that provides smooth power delivery and excellent pulling power, especially when tackling inclines or carrying a full load. If fuel efficiency and strong pulling power are your top priorities, the HTK+ Diesel AT is the clear winner.
Fuel Efficiency Face-Off
As expected, the diesel variant reigns supreme in terms of fuel economy. The HTK+ Diesel AT boasts a claimed mileage of up to 20.8 kmpl (ARAI), making it a wallet-friendly choice for those who clock high miles. The HTK+ Petrol CVT, however delivers a respectable mileage of around 16.8 kmpl (ARAI), which is still decent for a petrol SUV in this segment.
Features for the Modern Driver
While the HTK+ variants are positioned as the more affordable options, they don’t skimp on essential features. Both models come equipped with:
- Electrically folding ORVMs: These power-folding mirrors add a touch of convenience and enhance maneuverability in tight spaces.
- Rear wiper, washer, and defogger: Maintaining a clear rear view during monsoons or foggy mornings is a breeze with these features.
- Smart key with engine start/stop button: Ditch the traditional key and enjoy the ease of keyless entry and push-button start.
- Steering-mounted controls: Keep your hands on the wheel and focus on the road while controlling audio, calls, and cruise control settings.
- Automatic climate control: Maintain a comfortable cabin temperature with this convenient feature.
- Cruise control: Take the stress out of long highway drives with cruise control that maintains a constant speed.
Table: Key Feature Comparison
| Feature | HTK+ Petrol CVT | HTK+ Diesel AT |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L Petrol | 1.5L CRDi Diesel |
| Transmission | CVT | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Power | 115 PS | 115 PS |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Claimed Mileage (ARAI) | 16.8 kmpl | 20.8 kmpl |
| Key Features | Electrically folding ORVMs, Rear wiper/washer/defogger, Smart key with engine start/stop button, Steering-mounted controls, Automatic climate control, Cruise control | Same as Petrol CVT |
The Big Trade-Off: Features vs. Price
While the HTK+ variants offer a significant price advantage over their higher-trim counterparts, there are a few trade-offs in terms of features. Here’s what you might miss:
