There is plenty of room for little SUVs in the Indian market. Sometimes choosing from so many options might be just too confusing. In this highly competitive market, we check out some of the top contenders from the high-end lot today: the European-constructed Škoda Kushaq, the homeland favorite in Tata Nexon and Mahindra XUV300, and the feature-packed Korean Kia Seltos. Let’s look at what each of these has in store for us.
Design And Exterior
The Škoda Kushaq carries that rich design language from the European stable with its butterfly grille and highly stylized crystalline LED headlamps, giving an impressive aerodynamic feel. The newly facelifted Tata Nexon gives a dramatic and stylish look by carrying a boomerang-shaped roofline, making it appear coupe-like, along with sparkling DRLs at the front. Kia Seltos sports a tiger’s nose grille and split LED headlamps for premiums. With a stronger mass presence on the roads, Mahindra has blessed the XUV300 with a more ruggedly muscular look that makes you think of the mighty cheetah.
Power And Performance
Škoda Kushaq
- 1.0L TSI: 115PS/178Nm
- 1.5L TSI: 150PS/250Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed MT/AT, 7-speed DSG
Tata Nexon
- Petrol: 1.2L Turbocharged (120PS/170Nm)
- Diesel: 1.5L (115PS/260Nm)
- Transmission: 6-speed MT/AMT
Kia Seltos
- 1.5L NA Petrol: 115PS/144Nm
- 1.5L Diesel: 116PS/250Nm
- 1.5L Turbo Petrol: 160PS/253Nm
- Multiple transmission options, including DCT
Mahindra XUV300
- Petrol: 1.2L Turbo (110 PS/200 Nm)
- Diesel: 1.5L (117PS/300Nm)
- Transmission: 6-speed MT/AMT
Interior And Features
The Kushaq stands out thanks to its European luxury materials and fit-finish. Now, a digital instrument cluster and a two-spoke steering wheel only contribute to the car’s contemporary appearance. A huge infotainment touchscreen, panoramic sunroof, and ventilated seats make up the Selto’s best-equipped interior.
With wireless charging, linked car capabilities, and a semi-digital instrument cluster, it stands out as a superb value. Features like dual-zone climate control and front parking sensors are segment-first for the XUV300.
Safety
- Kushaq: 5-star Global NCAP rating, 6 airbags, ESC
- Nexon: 5-star Global NCAP rating, a pioneer in safety standards
- Seltos: 3-star Global NCAP rating, comprehensive safety suite
- XUV300: 5-star Global NCAP rating, multiple safety features
Price And Value
Starting prices (ex-showroom):
- Škoda Kushaq: ₹10.89 lakh
- Tata Nexon: ₹8.10 lakh
- Kia Seltos: ₹10.90 lakh
- Mahindra XUV300: ₹8.41 lakh
Conclusion
Every SUV has advantages.
Kushaq: superior build quality and driving dynamics.
Nexon: excellent value and proven safety.
Seltos: robust and feature-rich engine choices.
The best safety features and ride comfort are found in the XUV300.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal priorities. Enthusiasts go for Kushaq, and for one looking for cost-conscious purchasers, Seltos is the best option to choose; if you are a feature lover, then Nexon is the best choice. Families who look for the best safety outcomes can choose Nexon or XUV300.
Think about your exact needs, test a few possibilities, and select the one that best fits your needs and price range.
