Seres 3 CKD vs Kia Sportage AWD | Petrol vs. EV Competition

Seres has just introduced the CKD version of its compact crossover. Previously, it was the CBU unit, and now Seres 3 is being produced locally in Pakistan. This all-electric EV will cost you about 8.4 million on the invoice, and considering the price tag, it competes with the Kia Sportage AWD variant. We know it’s not a comparison, but Pakistani market is a price-focused market, so let’s compare these two cars on the basis of price.

Seres 3 CKD

The Seres 3 CKD might not be a brand you’re familiar with. Much like the MG ZS, the Seres 3 falls into the electric vehicle (EV) crossover category, offering a solid alternative for those looking to explore the EVs under 10 million budget.

From an exterior perspective, the Seres 3 appears to be a cross between a sedan and an SUV. It has a somewhat compressed, compact shape, offering a unique look that’s distinct in its segment.

Inside, the cabin features a soft brownish tone, with plush, soft-touch vegan leather upholstery throughout. The design is a departure from the Atto 3, adopting a more conventional look similar to the 2018 Audi models. It’s sleek and minimal, creating an elegant atmosphere that’s both practical and aesthetically pleasing.

It’s powered by a 54kWh battery, which delivers 163 horsepower and 300 Nm of torque. These specs are more than adequate for city commutes and occasional motorway trips. Design-wise, the Seres 3 doesn’t strictly fit the conventional crossover mold. It has more of the appearance of a compact SUV, reminiscent of the Honda Vezel or HR-V, rather than a traditional crossover. 

Kia Sportage AWD

While the rest of the world has moved on to the 5th generation, the Sportage still holds its ground, despite being a few years behind. This is mainly due to Kia’s strong brand recognition and its good resale value in the local market.

Under the hood, the Sportage is equipped with a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine, delivering just 50 horsepower less than the Seres 3. While the older generation may feel outdated, Sportage continues to be a solid choice in terms of value for money. However, it’s considered a bit overpriced compared to newer models in the same category.

The Sportage is a proper crossover, offering ample cabin and boot space, making it a great option for a mid-sized family planning longer trips. E features, includes, AWD, power windows, and an array of safety technologies such as VSA, ABS, HAC, HDA, TC, and BA.

The Sportage AWD comes with two airbags and a six-speaker sound system. The exterior design draws inspiration from the Porsche Cayenne, giving it a premium look. Inside, although the dashboard is made of plastic rather than leather, it doesn’t feel cheap. In fact, even German cars in the 2-3 crore price range sometimes use plastic dashboards.

The driving experience is comfortable, with a soft suspension that absorbs bumps well in the city. However, due to its body shape, it does experience some body roll. The main downside, however, is the aging interior design, which feels outdated compared to newer models.

When it comes to technology, the Seres 3 clearly outshines the Sportage, leaving it behind in terms of modern features and innovation. That said, the Sportage remains a competitive option in the market, especially if you value brand reliability and resale value.

1-1 Comparison

Here’s 1-1 comparison to save your time: