Kia Seltos 2023 vs Mahindra XUV700: Comparing Their Variants Priced Rs 18-20 Lakh for Performance Enthusiasts

Written By: Kshitij Bisen
Published: December 7, 2023 at 02:42 AMUpdated: Updated: December 7, 2023 at 02:42 AM
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What are some of the best performance cars, or top sports cars in India? What makes them high-performance car models? Today, we are looking at the Kia Seltos 2023 and Mahindra XUV700. Let’s see how their variants compare with each other in terms of performance.

In this article, we will share

  • What a performance enthusiast should look for in a car
  • Kia Seltos 2023 vs Mahindra XUV700 – a comprehensive analysis of their variants, performance and features
  • How to pick the right car for you

Also read: 10 DC Design cars & how they look in the REAL world: Maruti Swift to Mahindra XUV500

What a Performance Enthusiast Looks for in a Car

Here’s what to look for in a car as a performance enthusiast:

  • Acceleration and Speed – How quickly a car accelerates, what is its top speed
  • Power – How it pulls weight, how is its high speed stability, does it feel strained while going up the hills, or with AC on
  • Agility – How it behaves while turning at speeds
  • Driving Experience/Handling – Is the gearbox smooth and responsive, how is its steering/braking performance

Performance enthusiasts are drawn to quick cars that deliver exhilarating speed, responsive handling, and powerful acceleration. They prioritize vehicles with high engine power, quick acceleration, and minimal turbo lag for an instant response. High-speed stability and minimal body roll are key for a thrilling yet controlled driving experience.

The transmission system, offering swift and smooth gear shifts, plays a significant role in driving dynamics. Additionally, a superior in-car audio system and a cabin that blends comfort with a sporty feel enhance the overall driving pleasure. In essence, a performance car should evoke excitement and a sense of connection between the driver and the road.

Why Kia Seltos 2023 and Mahindra XUV700 are Popular

Kia Seltos 2023 and Mahindra XUV700 have become favorites among performance enthusiasts due to their unique combination of power, agility, and technology.

The Seltos, with its turbocharged engines, offers nimble handling and brisk acceleration, making it a delight on urban roads and highways alike. Its refined interior, featuring a high-quality Bose audio system, adds to the driving experience.

The Mahindra XUV700 stands out with its robust engine options, including a potent petrol variant that provides impressive power and torque. Its advanced automatic transmission ensures responsive and smooth power delivery. The XUV700 is also appreciated for its high-speed stability and agile handling, making it well-suited for spirited driving.

Both models boast modern designs and a suite of cutting-edge technologies, enhancing their appeal to performance-driven buyers.

Kia Seltos 2023 and Mahindra XUV700 Variants Shortlist in Rs 18-20 Lakh Range

For Kia Seltos 2023, we have:

VariantPrice (INR) as on 2 December 2023
X-Line S Diesel AT₹19,60,000
GTX Plus Diesel AT₹20,00,000
GTX Plus Turbo DCT₹20,00,000

For Mahindra XUV700, we have:

VariantPrice (INR) as on 2 December 2023
AX3 AT₹18,27,000
AX5 7 Str Diesel₹19,11,000
AX5 AT₹19,65,000

Our Pick for the Best Variant among Kia Seltos 2023 and Mahindra XUV700 for Performance Enthusiasts

The Kia Seltos GTX Plus Turbo DCT is the superior choice for a performance enthusiast. Priced at INR 20,00,000, it offers an ideal blend of power, agility, and luxury. The variant’s turbocharged petrol engine, delivering 157.81 BHP, ensures brisk acceleration and lively performance.

The DCT (Dual-Clutch Transmission) enhances the driving experience with rapid and smooth gear shifts, crucial for a performance car.

In terms of high-speed stability, the Seltos GTX Plus excels, providing a confident and controlled driving experience. The inclusion of a premium Bose audio system adds to the overall enjoyment, making every journey more engaging.

Furthermore, the Seltos GTX Plus boasts a sleek design and luxurious interiors, catering to those who seek a blend of style and performance. Overall, its combination of powerful engine performance, advanced transmission, and high-end features make it the top choice for performance enthusiasts.

The Top 3 Choices

  1. Kia Seltos GTX Plus Turbo DCT
  • Engine Power: High (157.81 BHP)
  • High-Speed Stability: Stable
  • Features: Premium (Bose Audio, LED Headlights)
  • Price: INR 20,00,000
  1. Mahindra XUV700 AX5 AT
  • Engine Power: Robust (197.13 BHP)
  • High-Speed Stability: Stable
  • Features: Advanced (LED Headlights, Turbocharged)
  • Price: INR 19,65,000
  1. Mahindra XUV700 AX3 AT
  • Engine Power: High (197.13 BHP)
  • High-Speed Stability: Stable
  • Features: Basic (OEM Audio, Halogen Headlights)
  • Price: INR 18,27,000
AttributesSeltos GTX Plus Turbo DCTXUV700 AX5 ATXUV700 AX3 AT
Engine Power (BHP)157.81197.13197.13
High-Speed StabilityStableStableStable
TurbochargingYesYesYes
Audio SystemBoseOEMOEM
Transmission TypeDCTTorque ConverterTorque Converter
Price (INR)20,00,00019,65,00018,27,000

How to Pick the Right Car for You

  • The Kia Seltos GTX Plus Turbo DCT stands out for its blend of sporty performance, premium features, and modern design, making it an excellent choice for performance enthusiasts. If you’re a tech-savvy gadget lover, you can check out our comparison of the Seltos 2023 with Hyundai Creta.
  • The Mahindra XUV700 variants, particularly the AX5 AT and AX3 AT, offer robust engine power and stable high-speed performance, catering to those who prefer a more powerful driving experience. If you’re an off-roading enthusiast, you can read our comparison of the XUV700 with Isuzu V-Cross.

Each of these variants offers unique attributes, allowing performance enthusiasts to choose based on their specific preferences and requirements.

If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.

Also read: Upcoming 2022 Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza rendered