If you’re looking for a feature-packed midsize SUV in India right now, the two most talked-about names are the Hyundai Creta and the Kia Seltos. Both models were recently updated in 2024–2025 and now offer the latest in design, technology, and safety. They share the same platform and engine options, but each has a unique style and appeal. So if you’re confused between the two, here’s a detailed comparison to help you choose the right SUV for your needs.
Design and Exterior Comparison
The Hyundai Creta 2025 has a more mature and premium look with its new rectangular grille, vertically stacked LED DRLs, and a wide stance. It looks bolder and more refined than the previous version. The rear is also redesigned with connected LED taillamps and a more upright SUV posture.
On the other hand, the Kia Seltos 2025 carries a sportier and aggressive look. It features sleeker LED headlamps, a signature tiger-nose grille, and sharp body lines. The Seltos offers more stylish alloy wheel designs and looks slightly more youthful, especially in the GT Line and X-Line trims.
Interior and Features
Both SUVs offer a high-tech cabin, but their layout and feel are slightly different. The Creta has a clean dashboard layout with dual screens (10.25-inch digital cluster + infotainment), soft-touch materials, ambient lighting, and a panoramic sunroof. It gives a modern and minimalistic vibe.
The Seltos, however, feels slightly more premium inside due to its sporty cabin color options (black and brown or black and grey), flat-bottom steering, and metallic accents. It also offers the same twin-screen layout and features as the Creta, but adds small enhancements like a rotary drive selector in the automatic variants.
Creta vs Seltos Interior Features
| Feature | Hyundai Creta 2025 | Kia Seltos 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | 10.25-inch touchscreen | 10.25-inch touchscreen |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | Yes | Yes |
| Panoramic Sunroof | Yes | Yes |
| Ventilated Front Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Level-2 ADAS | Yes | Yes |
| 360° Camera | Yes (top variants) | Yes (wider variant coverage) |
| Sound System | Arkamys (lower variants) | Bose (GT Line/X-Line) |
| Ambient Lighting | Yes | Yes |
| Air Purifier | Yes | Yes |
Engine and Performance
Both SUVs share the same engine options, but Kia offers slightly more tuning and transmission flexibility across variants.
Engine and Transmission Comparison
| Engine Type | Hyundai Creta | Kia Seltos |
|---|---|---|
| 1.5L Petrol (NA) | 115 PS / 144 Nm | 115 PS / 144 Nm |
| 1.5L Turbo Petrol | 160 PS / 253 Nm | 160 PS / 253 Nm |
| 1.5L Diesel | 116 PS / 250 Nm | 116 PS / 250 Nm |
| Transmission Options | 6MT, IVT, DCT, 6AT | 6MT, IVT, DCT, 6AT |
| Mileage (Petrol/Diesel) | 17–21 km/l (claimed) | 17–21 km/l (claimed) |
Both deliver smooth driving performance, but Seltos feels a bit sportier to drive due to its stiffer suspension tuning. The Creta offers slightly more comfort on broken roads due to its softer suspension setup.
Safety Comparison
Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos both now come equipped with Level-2 ADAS, six airbags, ESC, Hill Assist, TPMS, and rear disc brakes in higher variants. Both are also expected to achieve a high Bharat NCAP rating, though official scores are still awaited for the facelifted models.
Price Comparison (Ex-showroom Delhi)
| Variant Type | Hyundai Creta 2025 Price | Kia Seltos 2025 Price |
|---|---|---|
| Base Petrol | ₹11.00 lakh approx | ₹10.90 lakh approx |
| Turbo Petrol (DCT) | ₹17.50 lakh approx | ₹17.30 lakh approx |
| Top Diesel Auto | ₹20.15 lakh approx | ₹19.80 lakh approx |
While both SUVs are similarly priced, Seltos offers more features in mid variants, while Creta offers better value in the base and top trims. Kia also has a wider range of styling options, like the GT Line and X-Line, which make it more customizable for enthusiasts.
Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
If you prefer comfort, refinement, and a clean design, the Hyundai Creta 2025 is the better choice. It’s more relaxed to drive and has a slightly better ride quality. However, if you want a sportier driving experience, a more youthful design, and better features in the mid-range trims, the Kia Seltos makes more sense.
Both SUVs are nearly identical in terms of performance, tech, and safety. Your final decision should come down to the looks, interior feel, and brand preference. Either way, you won’t go wrong with either of these two—Creta and Seltos remain the top contenders in India’s midsize SUV segment in 2025.