Renault Duster base model vs Kia Seltos base variant (2026): Features, price, and key differences
The introductory starting price of Rs 10.29 lakh is valid for customers who pre-book the SUV by March 2026. After this period, the base price will increase to Rs 10.49 lakh (ex-showroom). Positioned in the highly competitive compact SUV segment, the new Duster competes with models such as Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta, Skoda Kushaq and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara.
On the other hand, the base model of Kia Seltos has an ex-showroom price of Rs 10,99,000.
Here’s a detailed comparison of the base models (Renault Duster Authentic and Kia Seltos HTE) to help you understand what each SUV offers at the entry level.
Kia Seltos HTE (Base Variant): Specifications
The Kia Seltos range is divided into Tech Line, GT Line and X-Line trims; The IIT sits as the entry-level variant below the Tech Line range.
Key features of Seltos HTE include:
- Six airbags for greater safety
- ABS with ESC and hill start assist
- Four-wheel drive disc brakes
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- rear view camera
- LED headlights and LED taillights with DRL
- 16 inch steel wheels with covers
- Rear spoiler with shark fin antenna and high-mounted taillight
- Manually adjustable driver’s seat height
- Steering wheel-mounted controls and cruise control
- 12 inch digital driver display
- 10.25 inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- Four USB Type-C ports (front and rear)
- keyless entry
- Manual air conditioning with rear AC vents
- Electrically adjustable ORVMs
- Black and gray interior trim
Renault Duster Original (Base Variant): Features
The Authentic trim is the entry-level offering of the new Duster series, focusing on practicality and basic features. The key features of Duster Authentic are:
- Six airbags, ABS with EBD and brake assist
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and traction control
- cornering stability control
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- Hill start assist
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
- 17 inch steel wheels with covers
- Automatic LED headlights with DRL
- LED tail lights and ORVM-mounted turn signals
- 7 inch TFT driver display
- Manual AC with rear vent
- Tilt and telescopic steering wheel
- Keyless entry and central locking
- Power windows with automatic up/down function
- Sliding armrest and 60:40 split folding rear seats
- Black upholstery with gray stitching
Renault Duster and Kia Seltos Base Model: What Stands Out?
At the base level, the Kia Seltos HTE leans towards a more feature-rich experience, especially with premium touches like a larger infotainment system, connected technology and cruise control.
Renault Duster Authentic, on the other hand, focuses more on key safety and functional features, offering larger wheels, additional stability systems and practical cabin elements.
If your priority is technology and infotainment, the base version of the Seltos is advantageous. But if you’re looking for a solid, safety-focused package with basic features, the new Duster base model is a strong example.
