The compact SUV segment in India has become one of the most competitive automotive categories, and the comparison of tata sierra vs mg hector vs kia seltos is especially relevant for buyers with a ₹15 lakh budget. Each of these SUVs approaches the market with a distinct philosophy. The Tata Sierra blends iconic heritage with modern technology, the MG Hector focuses on size and features, while the Kia Seltos delivers refinement, performance, and strong resale value.
For buyers seeking the best SUV under 15 lakh, this detailed comparison of compact SUVs in India evaluates design, engine performance, features, safety ratings, and ownership appeal. Let’s examine which SUV suits which type of buyer.
Price Overview and Variant Strategy
- Tata Sierra: Starts at ₹11.49 lakh (approx.)
- MG Hector: Starts at ₹11.99 lakh (approx.)
- Kia Seltos: Starts at ₹10.79 lakh (approx.)
The Tata Sierra variants include Smart, Pure, Pure+, Adventure, Adventure+, and Accomplished trims, offering multiple manual and automatic choices within the 15 lakh budget SUV segment.
Exterior Design Comparison
The Tata Sierra, MG Hector, and Kia Seltos showcase distinct exterior philosophies, rugged heritage, bold aggression, and sleek sophistication, tailored for Indian buyers seeking standout style under ₹15 lakh.
Tata Sierra Exterior
- Large black grille insert with latest Tata logo
- Slim LED headlamps
- Iconic Alpine glass roof with modern interpretation
- Stylish alloy wheel design
- New LED taillamps and rear spoiler
- Powered tailgate for added convenience
MG Hector Exterior
- Familiar silhouette with refreshed grille design
- Updated front and rear bumpers
- ‘Aura Bolt’ alloy wheel design
- New colour options: Celadon Blue and Pearl White
- Strong road presence due to large dimensions
Kia Seltos Exterior
- Crown jewel LED headlamps with DRLs
- Sporty dual exhaust on turbo-petrol variants
- Four alloy wheel designs (16, 17, and 18-inch)
- Connected LED taillamps with wide light bar
- Sporty yet premium design language
Engine and Performance
When it comes to engine performance SUV expectations, all three SUVs deliver petrol engines tuned for different driving styles. Tata prioritises smooth everyday usability, MG focuses on torque and comfort, while Kia leads in outright performance and refinement.
Tata Sierra
The Tata Sierra uses a naturally aspirated petrol engine designed for city comfort and relaxed highway cruising.
Tata Sierra Specifications
|
Specification |
Details |
|
Fuel Type |
Petrol |
|
Engine |
1498 cc |
|
Power |
105 bhp |
|
Torque |
145 Nm |
|
Transmission |
6-speed Manual / 7-speed DCT |
|
Mileage (User Reported) |
17 kmpl |
MG Hector
The MG Hector relies on a turbo-petrol motor that delivers strong mid-range torque for effortless highway driving.
MG Hector Specifications
|
Specification |
Details |
|
Fuel Type |
Petrol |
|
Engine |
1451 cc Turbocharged |
|
Power |
141 bhp |
|
Torque |
250 Nm |
|
Transmission |
6-speed Manual / CVT |
Kia Seltos
The Kia Seltos offers the most powerful petrol engine among the three, balancing performance with efficiency.
Kia Seltos Specifications
|
Specification |
Details |
|
Fuel Type |
Petrol |
|
Engine |
1482 cc Turbocharged |
|
Power |
158 bhp |
|
Torque |
253 Nm |
|
Transmission |
iMT / DCT |
|
Mileage (ARAI) |
17.7–17.9 kmpl |
This clearly influences the tata sierra vs kia seltos and mg hector vs kia seltos debates.
Comparison Table Tata Sierra vs MG Hector vs Kia Seltos
|
Parameter |
Tata Sierra |
MG Hector |
Kia Seltos |
|
Price (Ex-Showroom) |
₹11.49 lakh |
₹11.99 lakh |
₹10.79 lakh |
|
Engine |
1498 cc NA petrol |
1451 cc Turbo petrol |
1482 cc Turbo petrol |
|
Body Type |
Compact SUV |
Compact SUV |
Compact SUV |
|
Top Speed |
N/A (Not disclosed) |
N/A (Not disclosed) |
N/A (Not disclosed) |
|
Airbags |
6 (Standard) |
6 (Standard) |
6 (Standard) |
Convenience, Technology, and Cabin Features
Tata Sierra
- Triple 12.3-inch digital displays
- Ventilated front seats
- 360-degree camera
- Gesture-controlled powered tailgate
- Boot space: 622 litres (expandable to 1257 litres)
- Large panoramic sunroof (1525mm x 925mm)
- 12-speaker JBL sound system with Dolby Atmos
This gives Tata a strong edge in boot space comparison and in-cabin technology.
MG Hector
- 14-inch vertical touchscreen
- i-SWIPE gesture controls
- Over 100 voice commands
- Infinity by Harmon sound system
- Panoramic sunroof
- MG i-SMART connected car technology
Among MG Hector's features, infotainment remains the biggest highlight.
Kia Seltos:
- Premium fit and finish throughout the cabin with soft-touch materials and high-quality plastics
- Comfortable seating for five passengers with ample legroom and supportive cushions
- Ventilated front seats for enhanced cooling during hot Indian summers
- Electric driver’s seat with multiple adjustments for personalized comfort
Safety and Driver Assistance Systems
Tata Sierra:
- Level 2 ADAS with 22 advanced features, including adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and automatic emergency braking
- Six airbags are standard across all variants for comprehensive occupant protection
- 360-degree surround-view camera for effortless parking and maneuvering
- ABS with EBD and brake assist for superior braking stability
- Crash test rating awaited from Global NCAP or Bharat NCAP
MG Hector:
- Level 2 ADAS for advanced driver assistance, including lane assist and collision avoidance
- Six airbags are standard across variants for all-around safety
- Hill hold and traction control for confident starts and grip on slopes
- 360-degree camera with wheel view for precise parking and low-speed maneuvers
- Crash test rating awaited from Bharat NCAP or Global NCAP
Kia Seltos
- 3-star GNCAP safety rating for proven structural integrity
- ADAS with 17 features, including adaptive cruise and lane keep assist
- Six airbags are standard for comprehensive protection
- 360-degree camera with blind-view monitor for enhanced visibility
- All-wheel disc brakes for superior stopping power and stability
In terms of SUV safety ratings, the Seltos currently holds a confirmed advantage.
Mileage, Ownership, and Resale Value
- Kia Seltos' mileage is the most efficient
- Resale value Kia Seltos remains the strongest in this segment
- Tata continues to improve brand trust and build quality perception
- MG offers maximum features per rupee
Final Verdict
The tata sierra vs mg hector vs kia seltos comparison shows that each SUV excels in different areas.
- Choose Tata Sierra if you want a futuristic design, cutting-edge features, and maximum boot space
- Choose MG Hector if cabin space, infotainment, and comfort matter most
- Choose Kia Seltos if you value performance, mileage, safety rating, and resale value
For buyers evaluating the best SUV under 15 lakh, this comparison ensures a confident, well-informed decision.
