Maruti Victoris vs Kia Seltos: Which SUV Should You Buy?

Maruti Suzuki has launched the Victoris, a new compact SUV for the Indian market. While pricing is yet to be announced, the company has detailed all specifications and features of the model. The Victoris will compete directly with the Kia Seltos, offering multiple powertrain options, modern features, and safety technologies.

The Victoris measures 4,360 mm in length, 1,795 mm in width, and 1,655 mm in height. Its wheelbase is 2,600 mm. In comparison, the Kia Seltos is slightly longer and wider, at 4,365 mm and 1,800 mm respectively, with a 2,610 mm wheelbase. However, the Victoris stands taller by 10 mm. While Seltos offers 433 liters of boot space, Maruti has not disclosed Victoris’ cargo capacity. The Victoris also provides a CNG variant with an underbody tank, ensuring boot space remains unaffected.

The Victoris comes in three engine formats: a 1.5-litre mild-hybrid petrol (103 PS, 139 Nm), a strong-hybrid petrol (116 PS, 141 Nm), and a 1.5-litre petrol+CNG option (88 PS, 121.5 Nm). Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. Front-wheel-drive is standard, with AWD available for automatic variants.

The Kia Seltos offers a wider selection: 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol (115 PS), 1.5-litre turbo-petrol (160 PS), and 1.5-litre diesel (116 PS). Gearboxes include 6-speed manual, CVT, 6-speed iMT, 7-speed DCT, and 6-speed automatic. Seltos models are front-wheel-drive only. Fuel efficiency for Victoris’ strong-hybrid is claimed at 28.65 kmpl.

Both SUVs feature auto-LED projector headlights, connected tail lamps, roof rails, and alloy wheels. Victoris has 17-inch wheels; Seltos gets 18-inch variants. Interiors feature dual-tone cabins, leatherette seats, ventilated front seats, and 10.25-inch digital driver displays. Panoramic sunroofs, wireless phone charging, and multi-drive modes are available on both models.

Additional comfort features in Seltos include rear sunblinds, dual-zone AC, a smart key with remote engine start, and a dual-camera dashcam. Victoris focuses on enhanced audio with an 8-speaker Infinity system and Dolby Atmos subwoofer.

Both SUVs include six airbags, 360-degree cameras, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, parking sensors, and Level 2 ADAS. Victoris AWD variants offer hill descent control, a feature absent in the Seltos.

Maruti expects the Victoris to range between Rs 9.75 lakh and Rs 20 lakh (ex-showroom), undercutting the Seltos, priced from Rs 11.19 lakh to Rs 20.56 lakh. Victoris will be sold through Maruti’s Arena dealerships.

The Maruti Victoris and Kia Seltos are closely matched in specifications, features, and safety. Seltos offers slightly more premium comfort features, turbo and diesel powertrain options, and larger wheel dimensions. Victoris provides hybrid and CNG options, higher fuel efficiency, and optional AWD. Buyers seeking a cost-effective, feature-packed petrol SUV may find Victoris appealing, while those prioritizing diesel or performance-focused variants may prefer Seltos.