The compact SUV space in India was super competitive during 2025 and three of the big guns rubbed shoulders in the sales charts. The Hyundai Creta remains in the lead, with the Kia Seltos being the sporty option and the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara getting to play thanks to its hybrid edge. But each is strong in different ways, so the choice facing buyers is a difficult one.
Hyundai Creta: The All-Rounder
The Creta remains the segment benchmark with a full package that appeals to all kinds of buyers. The 2025 model gets Level 2 ADAS features like Forward Collision Warning and Lane Keeping Assist, making it one of the safest. The dual 10.25-inch connected screens make for a premium cabin experience and the panoramic sunroof adds to the aspirational quotient.
Powertrain options include 1.5L NA petrol, 1.5L turbo-petrol and 1.5L diesel engines with a range of transmission choices. The Creta EV is a stepping stone to what will certainly be a hot market. Creta begins at ₹11.11 lakh for ICE trims and the venue for EV is ₹17.99 lakh and the Creta presents great value across the range.
Kia Seltos: The Style Icon
The Seltos carved a niche with bold design and feature-rich interiors that appeal to younger buyers. The 2025 facelift maintains its aggressive styling and adds practical features like Head-Up Display and 360-degree camera system. The Level 2 ADAS package matches the Creta’s safety credentials while the Bose sound system makes the audio experience better.
Performance enthusiasts will love the multiple powertrain options including the 1.5L turbo-petrol engine with DCT automatic transmission. Priced at ₹11.19 lakh, it’s competitive to the Creta and has a distinct personality that will appeal to design conscious buyers.
Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara: The Efficiency King
The Grand Vitara brings Maruti’s reliability and fuel efficiency to the compact SUV segment. Its USP is the strong hybrid powertrain that delivers great fuel economy and reduces running costs. The All-Wheel Drive option makes it the only AWD car in this comparison and is perfect for adventure seekers.
It doesn’t have the comprehensive ADAS of its Korean rivals but the Grand Vitara makes up for it with Maruti’s massive service network and proven reliability. Priced at ₹11.42 lakh, it’s the most expensive of the three but the hybrid technology justifies the premium for fuel conscious buyers.
Choosing the Right One
It all depends on individual preferences. The Creta is for those who want a complete package with premium features and brand value. The Seltos is for those who prioritise style and sportiness while the Grand Vitara is for efficiency-conscious buyers who value Maruti’s service network.
Current numbers show Creta leading with 17,016 units in April 2025, Grand Vitara with 7,154 units and Seltos with 6,135 units. These numbers reflect each model’s positioning and buyer preference.
Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Hyundai Creta | Kia Seltos | Grand Vitara |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Options | 1.5L NA Petrol, 1.5L Turbo, 1.5L Diesel | 1.5L NA Petrol, 1.5L Turbo, 1.5L Diesel | 1.5L Mild Hybrid, 1.5L Strong Hybrid |
| Transmission | Manual, IVT, DCT, AT | Manual, IVT, iMT, DCT, TC | 5MT, 6AT, e-CVT |
| ADAS | Level 2 | Level 2 | Basic |
| Sunroof | Panoramic | Panoramic | Panoramic |
| AWD | No | No | Yes |
| Price Range | ₹11.11-20.50 lakh | ₹11.19-20.56 lakh | ₹11.42-20.68 lakh |
| Fuel Efficiency | Good | Good | Excellent |
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FAQs
Q : Which compact SUV has the best mileage?
A : Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara with its strong hybrid powertrain has the best mileage in this segment, so it’s ideal for high mileage users.
Q : How does Hyundai Creta’s safety compare to rivals?
A : While the Creta and Kia Seltos boast Level 2 ADAS, the Grand Vitara offers only basic safety-making the Korean SUVs the top choices for advanced safety tech.
Q : Which SUV has the most interior space?
A : All three have similar interior space but Creta’s cabin design and premium materials make it feel more spacious than its rivals.
Q : Is Kia Seltos worth the extra cost?
A : Seltos justifies its premium with unique styling, feature packed interiors and strong performance credentials that appeals to younger buyers looking for differentiation.
Q : Which compact SUV has the best resale value?
A : Hyundai Creta retains good resale value due to brand reputation and market leadership, followed by Grand Vitara’s Maruti badge reliability.
