Hyundai Creta vs Kia Seltos: Which Should You Buy in Bahrain?

A complete comparison of the ⁦Hyundai Creta⁩ VS ⁦Kia Seltos⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across Bahrain.

⁦Hyundai Creta⁩ VS ⁦Kia Seltos⁩: the verdict

The Kia Seltos edges out the Hyundai Creta for drivers prioritizing performance and a more engaging driving experience, thanks to its higher horsepower and torque. However, the Hyundai Creta remains an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers in Bahrain, offering clear fuel efficiency figures and a more accessible starting price, making it a strong contender for everyday practicality.
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Price Comparison
Starting at7,950 – 9,750 BHD0 – 8,500 BHD
Engine & Power
Engine1,497 cc · 4 cyl1,400 – 1,600 cc · 4 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)115 hp121 – 138 hp
Torque (Nm)144 Nm151 – 242 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)12 s—
Top Speed (Km/h)170 km/h—
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)6.1 – 7.1 L/100km—
Fuel Tank Capacity40 – 55 L50 L
Gears66 – 7
TransmissionAutomatic / CVTAutomatic
Drive TypeFront Wheel DriveFront Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Measurements
L×W×H4.3 / 4.3 m × 1.8 m × 1.6 / 1.6 m4.3 m × 1.8 m × 1.6 m
Wheelbase (meters)2.6 m2.6 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,190 kg—
Trunk Capacity (liters)430 L433 L
Overview
Body StyleSUV CrossoverSUV Crossover
Seating Capacity5 seats—
Doors5 doors5 doors
Features
Key features
12V Socket360-Degree Camera360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive BonnetActive HeadrestsActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive Brake LightsAirbagsAlloy PedalsAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAppsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Door LockAUXBA (Brake Assist)Body Colored GrilleBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCD PlayerCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesCigar LighterClimate ControlClimate Controlled SeatsCollision DetectionCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDoor Edge ProtectorDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDVD PlayerEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Electric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofFabric SeatsFire ExtinguisherFirst Aid KitFog LightsFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFront BrakesFront CameraGas Shock AbsorberGlove Box CoolingHalogen HeadlampsHDMIHeated SeatsHeel-and-ToeHID HeadlightsImmobilizerInfotainment ScreenISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryKnee AirbagLED Fog LightsLegroomManual ACManual HeadlampsMap Reading LampsMoonroofMoving Object Detection SystemMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeNight VisionNumber of SpeakersOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff Road KItOff-Road DampersPanoramic Glass RoofParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPerformance TyresPower LocksPower MirrorsPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower WindowsPower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear Entertainment SystemRear Lcd screensRear Window DefoggerRemote StartRemote Windows DownSeat Adjustment - ManualSeatbelt pretensionerSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTouchscreen SizeTraction ControlTrip ComputerUrethane Steering WheelUSB PortVanity MirrorVariable Cylinder Management (VCM)Wheel SizeWheels - AlloyWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim
12V Socket360 Camera360-Degree Camera360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic Front WindshieldAcoustic HoodActive BonnetActive HeadrestsActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive Brake LightsAirbagsAlloy PedalsAluminum WheelsAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAppsAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAUXBA (Brake Assist)BluetoothBody Colored GrilleBumper Side StepCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesCigar LighterClimate ControlClimate Controlled SeatsCollision DetectionCrosswind AssistCruise ControlCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Edge ProtectorDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric CurtainElectric Door MirrorsElectric Opening and Closing of Luggage DoorElectric SunroofFabric SeatsFire ExtinguisherFirst Aid KitFog Lamp - Rear OnlyFog LightsFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFront BrakesFront CameraGas Shock AbsorberGlove Box CoolingHDMIHeated SeatsHeel-and-ToeHID HeadlightsHill AssistImmobilizerInfotainment ScreenIntelligent KeyISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryKnee AirbagLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsLegroomLive Traffic InformationMoonroofMoving Object Detection SystemMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayNight VisionNumber of SpeakersOBD (On-board Diagnostics)Off Road KItOff-Road DampersPanoramic Glass RoofParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPerformance TyresPower LocksPower MirrorsPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower WindowsPower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRear AC ControlsRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear CameraRear Entertainment SystemRear Lcd screensRear Window DefoggerRemote StartRemote Windows DownSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSingle Exhaust TipSpare WheelSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTouchscreenTraction ControlTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVariable Cylinder Management (VCM)Wheel SizeWheels - AlloyWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Performance

The Kia Seltos takes the lead with its more powerful engine options, offering up to 138 hp and 242 Nm of torque, ensuring a more dynamic drive compared to the Creta.

2

Best for Fuel Efficiency

For those prioritizing economy, the Hyundai Creta is the clear winner, boasting a stated fuel economy as low as 6.1 L/100km, providing predictable running costs.

3

Best for Value and City Driving

The Hyundai Creta offers a more accessible entry point with a starting price of 7,950 BHD and its compact dimensions, making it an ideal, cost-effective choice for urban commuters.

4

Best for Driving Dynamics

With its higher torque and up to 7-speed transmission options, the Kia Seltos promises a more refined and responsive driving experience, appealing to those who enjoy a spirited drive.

Pros & cons

Hyundai Creta

Pros

  • Excellent stated fuel economy (6.1 L/100km)
  • Lower starting price (7,950 BHD)
  • Clear 0-100 km/h acceleration figure (12 seconds)
  • Larger maximum fuel tank capacity (55 L)

Cons

  • Lower power output (115 hp)
  • Less torque (144 Nm)
  • Fewer transmission gears (6-speed Automatic/CVT)
  • Slightly smaller trunk capacity (430 L)

Kia Seltos

Pros

  • Higher maximum horsepower (138 hp)
  • Superior maximum torque (242 Nm)
  • More advanced transmission options (up to 7 gears)
  • Slightly larger trunk capacity (433 L)

Cons

  • No stated fuel economy figures
  • Higher potential starting price (up to 8,500 BHD)
  • Acceleration and top speed figures are N/A
  • Kerb weight information is N/A

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is more powerful, the Hyundai Creta or Kia Seltos?

The Kia Seltos is more powerful, offering up to 138 hp and 242 Nm of torque, compared to the Hyundai Creta's 115 hp and 144 Nm. If raw power and acceleration are your priority, the Seltos is the better choice for a more dynamic driving experience.

Is the Hyundai Creta or Kia Seltos more fuel efficient?

The Hyundai Creta has a clearly stated fuel economy of 6.1 L/100km, making it the more predictable choice for efficiency. The Kia Seltos's fuel economy figures are not provided in the specifications, so the Creta offers more certainty regarding running costs.

Which car offers better value for money in Bahrain, the Creta or Seltos?

The Hyundai Creta generally offers better value for money with a lower starting price of 7,950 BHD, while the Seltos can go up to 8,500 BHD. For buyers seeking a well-equipped SUV at a more accessible price point, the Creta is an excellent option.

Which has more cargo space, the Hyundai Creta or Kia Seltos?

The Kia Seltos offers slightly more cargo space with a trunk capacity of 433 liters, compared to the Hyundai Creta's 430 liters. While the difference is minimal, the Seltos has a slight edge for those needing maximum boot space.