Maruti Suzuki Victoris vs Kia Seltos: Which Compact SUV Offers More Bang For Your Buck?

With the introduction of the Victoris, Maruti has extended its lineup in the compact SUV space alongside the Grand Vitara. Along with its sibling, the Victoris will go head-to-head with the Kia Seltos, which has already carved a solid space for itself with its sharp styling, tech-heavy cabin, and wide engine lineup. Now, with the Victoris being the newest member in the segment, the question remains: Does it have what it takes to unsettle the Seltos’ market? Let’s dive in to find out.

Price

Maruti is yet to announce the complete price list for the Victoris, but it is expected to start from around Rs 10 lakh. The speculative price makes it more affordable than the Kia Seltos. That said, the Seltos goes further up the ladder with its turbo-petrol and diesel engine variants, offering more choices.

Dimensions

Sizing-wise, the Seltos edges ahead with a slightly longer body, wider stance, and longer wheelbase, which should help with stability and rear legroom. The Victoris, however, is the taller SUV, giving it an advantage in headroom and overall presence.

Features

With the Victoris, Maruti has equipped it with both essentials and niceties to match the Seltos. Both SUVs are closely matched on features, offering almost everything you would expect at this price point. The Seltos pulls slightly ahead with its larger 18-inch alloys and premium Bose audio setup, while the Victoris counters with wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay. Though this is limited to lower-spec variants of the Seltos. Both SUVs also come equipped with similar safety tech, including Level-2 ADAS.

Powertrain

iMT - clutchless manual transmission

With the numbers presented in the table above, the Victoris relies on efficiency-focused powertrain options, including a CNG unit choice alongside mild-hybrid and strong-hybrid options. Additionally, the Victoris also offers the added perk of an AWD system with the mild-hybrid engine choice.

The Seltos, on the other hand, clearly wins on variety and performance. Its turbo-petrol and diesel engines deliver significantly stronger outputs, making it the sportier choice.

ZigSays…

The Maruti Suzuki Victoris has its strengths. It’s expected to be priced lower, which could make it an attractive option, and it also comes with hybrid choices. On top of that, Maruti’s twin-cylinder CNG setup means you still get usable boot space, something that regular CNG cars often compromise on.

The Kia Seltos, meanwhile, appeals more to buyers who prefer a sportier character from their SUV. Its turbo-petrol and diesel engines deliver stronger performance, making it a more engaging choice to drive. The Seltos also comes with a more upmarket cabin experience, though the Victoris is not far behind with a solid set of features of its own.

Let us know in the comments below which model you would pick?