The Hyundai Creta, an Indian crossover SUV, was first launched in 2014. What we are seeing here is its second-generation facelift variant as of 2024. Available in both petrol and diesel variants, its price range starts from an ex-showroom price of INR 11 lakhs, with the top model priced at INR 20 lakhs.
The model in discussion is the top-tier SX (O). It features Hyundai’s “Sensuous Sportiness” design language. With over 9 lakh units sold in India, Creta has become one of the country’s most popular SUVs. It’s also been a bestseller in Russia. This generation of Creta, codenamed SU2i, is known as the iX25 and Cantus in some countries.
Equipped with a Level 2 ADAS system, Creta offers a 3-year unlimited km warranty, extendable up to 7 years for petrol variants. Additionally, it includes 3 years of roadside assistance. The Creta is assembled in India, China, Russia, Brazil, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Bangladesh.
Built on the Hyundai-Kia K2 platform, shared with models like the i20, Verna, i30, Venue, Alcazar, and several Kia models, Creta’s long-wheelbase version is named Alcazar. It boasts skid plates at both ends, a black chrome parametric radiator grille, quad beam LED automatic headlamps with high beam assist and headlamp escort function, horizon LED positioning lamp, DRLs, sequential turn indicators, and a Lightening arch C-pillar.
Other features include electrically adjustable and foldable outside mirrors with LED turn indicators, puddle lamps, and a welcome function. The SUV measures 4.3 meters in length, 1.8 meters in width, and 1.6 meters in height. It offers a commanding exterior, an upmarket interior, advanced technology, fun-to-drive performance, and comprehensive safety features.
The Creta comes with 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, optional 16-inch steel wheels, disc brakes at both ends, and 215/60 R17 96H JK Tyre UX Royale steel radial tubeless tyres. The model reviewed is in Abyss black, with other color options including green, red, khaki, white, and grey, and a dual-tone option with a black roof.
In terms of safety, the Global NCAP awarded it 3 out of 5 stars, while the ASEAN NCAP gave it a full 5-star rating. Other safety features include connected LED tail lamps with an emergency stop signal and sequential turn indicators, rear wiper with washer, defogger with timer, LED high mount stop lamp, and the ability to start the engine remotely via key.
Suspension is handled by McPherson struts with coil springs at the front and a Coupled torsion beam axle at the rear. The automatic variant offers three drive modes (eco, normal, sport) and three traction control modes (snow, mud, sand).
Hyundai SmartSense Level 2 ADAS includes features like Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Blind-spot Collision Avoidance Assist, and more. Safety is further enhanced with 6 airbags, ABS, EBD, Electronic Stability Control, ISOFIX mounts, and more.
Technology-wise, Hyundai’s BlueLink system allows control over 70+ features via a smartphone app. The Creta has a boot space of 433 liters and comes with a 16-inch steel spare wheel. Inside, it features an 8-speaker Bose premium sound system, leatherette door armrests, window sunshade, and various upholstery options.
Comfort features include 2-step reclining rear seats, ambient lighting, headrest cushions, 60:40 split-folding rear seats, and a new seamless integrated curvilinear infotainment and cluster screens. The front seats are ventilated, and there are LED reading lights, an 8-way power-adjustable driver seat, height-adjustable seatbelts, and a driver anchor pretensioner.
The steering is a tilt and telescopic motor-driven power type, with features like auto start-stop off, park assist, and traction control off. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic for diesel, and for petrol, 6-speed manual, IVT automatic and 7-speed DCT automatic.
The Creta offers a choice of engines: a 1493 cc diesel producing 114 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque, and two petrol engines – a 1497 cc MPi engine with 113 horsepower and 143 Nm of torque, and a 1482 cc Turbo GDi engine with 157 horsepower and 253 Nm of torque.
Lastly, the infotainment system is a 10.25-inch HD touchscreen supporting multiple languages, with a plethora of connectivity and entertainment options.
In summary, the Hyundai Creta stands out for its stylish design, comprehensive safety features, advanced technology, and versatile performance, making it a competitive player in the SUV segment.
