If you are in the market for a new midsize SUV, you are quite spoilt for choice. There are as many as 13 models to choose from, spanning every powertrain, including petrol, diesel, CNG, strong-hybrid and electric. With so many options, it may be quite daunting to choose the right model. To make it easier for you, we have compiled the five best midsize SUVs currently available in the market, focusing only on the ICE-powered models.
1. Kia Seltos
Price: Rs 10.99 lakh-21.82 lakh
The midsize SUV segment has a new all-rounder in the Seltos. It’s got a wide range of engines, including a 115hp, 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol, a 160hp, 1.5-litre turbo-petrol and a 116hp, 1.5-litre diesel; gearbox options are just as diverse. The Seltos also has the most premium and inviting interior. Not only is it refined, efficient and spacious, but it also has class-leading tech and UI/UX. The only downside is that there’s a hint of firmness in the suspension setup, but it’s not a dealbreaker. It is, however, quite expensive at the top end.
2. Hyundai Creta
Price: Rs 10.91 lakh-19.95 lakh
Despite its age, the Creta remains a competitive offering in the company of its newer rivals. It’s slightly smaller and less spacious than the Seltos because the latter has moved on to a new-generation platform, but it offers the same mix of powertrain options, a comfortable driving and riding experience and a feature-loaded cabin. Hyundai’s after-sales service experience is quite satisfactory, and there’s also the N Line version with a slightly sportier setup for the more enthusiastic buyer.
3. Maruti Victoris
Price: Rs 10.49 lakh-19.99 lakh
If running costs, reliability and ease of ownership are priorities, the Victoris (or the Grand Vitara and Hyryder) remains unmatched. Between the three, the Victoris is the newest and also packs some additional features. The trio has the segment’s only strong-hybrid powertrain with the 116hp, 1.5-litre strong-hybrid unit and also the option of AWD with the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. The Victoris rides and handles well, too, although performance isn’t particularly exciting, and rear-seat space isn’t as good as that of its rivals. There’s also the option of CNG should you want affordable running costs.
4. Tata Sierra
Price: Rs 11.49 lakh-21.29 lakh
The Sierra is the roomiest and most feature-loaded SUV in the midsize segment, uniquely even offering a third screen for the front passenger. Good ride and handling are also among its strengths. The 160hp, 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine is the pick of the range, as the 118hp, 1.5-litre diesel and 106hp, 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engines aren’t good on refinement and performance. It’s also on the more expensive side, and reliability and service experience are deterrents, too.
5. Renault Duster
Price: Rs 10.49 lakh-18.69 lakh
The Duster has a tough and rugged appeal, fantastic ride quality and a well-appointed interior. It offers good value for money, too, but is not as spacious as its rivals. Also, both its 100hp, 1.0-litre turbo-petrol and 163hp, 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engines suffer from turbo-lag, although performance is otherwise quite potent. A big miss is the option of an auto gearbox with the base petrol engine. Some may even miss a diesel engine and optional all-wheel-drive system offered with the original Duster.
