Hyundai’s Creta, as we all are aware, has perhaps been the most significant model for the Korean brand. Ever since the launch of the first-generation model back in 2015, buyers have simply been driving these things off showroom floors at an unbelievable pace. It was that good – and booking periods went on for months, but prospective buyers waited it out, for they knew the value they were getting for the money paid. Now with the second-generation model, Hyundai wants to accomplish the same status. But with Kia’s Sonet (which is equally competitive) in sight, will it still stand a chance to reign supreme? We tell you more about it.
What’s radical about it?
We loved the old Hyundai Creta for its sharp look and its SUV stance. It was, in no way, ungainly to look at; it had the right proportions and lines that made it likable. It also received a face-lift at a later stage, giving it a fresher look. The new Hyundai Creta, on the hand, is very different. Despite being boxier, it somehow manages to look contemporary with those broad creases curving over the wheel arches, the roofline that sports a silver accent on the C-pillar and the three-part C-shaped LED DRLs, below which lie the main LED headlamps. However, the flat face isn’t to our liking and the big grille worsens matters further. The flared wheel arches and dual-tone 17-inch wheels are prominent from the sides, while the rear too, looks radical and follows a similar design language with the C-shaped tail light design. The rear is definitely the best-looking part of the SUV.
Inside the Creta
The dashboard layout is a lot simpler and cleaner to behold with that nice, V-shaped central console. The 1.4-litre Turbo model features an all-black theme for the cabin along with red highlights, while other bits get a black and beige combination. The leather-wrapped steering gets contrast stitching; so does the gear lever. We do appreciate the sporty colour theme, but we found that there’s too much of plastic that, very uncannily, shines. However, the quality of materials leave nothing to complain about, while soft-touch plastics are absent, unlike on many of its contenders – and there no overtly done design elements staring you in the face.
You’re bound to love the front seats, for they are large, supportive, well bolstered – and having been upholstered in contrast-stitched artificial leather, it does give the cabin a premium feel. Also, this time, Hyundai Cars have worked that bit more to ensure rear space is better than before, with a third occupant fitting in without any effort. Unfortunately though, your back tends to feel the central armrest quite a bit – and it can be a little annoying, to say the least. What’s nice is, you sit high up, getting a good all-round view. You can also have cushions fitted to the rear headrests for better comfort. AC vents are offered at the rear and there’s a USB charging port too. The massive sunroof provides a great view of a starry night and gives the cabin an airy feel. Then of course, there’s headroom, which is decent.
Hyundai has packed the Creta to the brim with fancy tech like a Bose audio system, panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, auto climate control, an electronic parking brake, a 10.25-inch touchscreen featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an onboard air purifier, 6 drive modes and a part-digital instrument cluster. The safety suite includes traction and stability control, 6 airbags, a rear-view camera and rear parking sensors
Power play
The customer can choose from three different engine options: a 1.5-litre turbo diesel, a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol and a 1.4-litre direct-injection turbo petrol engine – the last of which we’ve got our hands on. The first two engines come paired either with a manual or an automatic ‘box, while the turbo petrol model features only an automatic transmission.
The 1.4 T-GDi engine also does duty in the Seltos, making the same 138bhp and 242Nm of torque, meaning the Hyundai Creta hasn’t to be taken for granted when it comes to performance. The dual-clutch auto ‘box gels well with the motor but reflects some jerkiness at low speeds. The shifts, though, are smoother than what we’ve experienced in the Seltos – and it works efficiently at high speeds. This model also features paddle-shifters, allowing the driver to push the engine to its limit. Refinement is good, but when revved hard, it does get a little loud. In Eco mode, the ‘box upshifts rather quickly, suiting the city very well. Comfort mode feels a little livelier, while Sport really lets you have some fun. Also, grab the latest info on the upcoming cars, only at autoX.