Hyundai Creta has been an all out winner for the Korean brand right since its launch in 2015. This SUV created the Mid-Sized SUV segment which it rules since then along with its cousin the Kia Seltos at number 2. The largest selling model in its class is now due for a major update which we head to Jodhpur to drive. Our review here tells you everything on the updated New Hyundai Creta and more.
Exteriors
The Creta in its latest avatar gets an all new face and tail. Both these updates give a fresh new look to the SUV which you can love or hate but can’t ignore for sure. in terms of looks the Creta now comes with a new design broad grille that has dark chrome elements in it. You also get new design sharp styled DRL that come with a 7 design and extend across the width of the bonet. The sharp front bumper is all new and houses quad white LED headlamps in it. The Creta also gets sequential turn lights infused into the bumper. The front faux skid plate in silver adds a lot of weight to the styling of the face.
The bonnet comes with character lines that define it while the side profile styling remains the same as the outgoing model what changes here is the new design R17 alloys, faux inserts around the running board, roof rails finished in silver and the thick silver accent that finishes the D Pillar. Door handles get chrome finish while the roof comes with a large panoramic glass roof and a shark fin antenna.
The rear profile is also brand new just like the face. Here the key element in the styling department is the 7 design LED stop lamp that runs across the boot area and also infuses the large Hyundai H logo inside it like the New Verna. A new design rear bumper with a large skid plate in silver finishes the styling element here. The rear stop reflector and high placed stop lamp finish the matters here.
Interiors
Step inside the cabin of the New Creta and you will instantly notice the brand new dashboard that is finished in beige and black with soft inserts of rose gold along the displays. Speaking of displays the new Creta comes with two 10.25 inch color screens one for the instrument cluster and other for the AVN system. The virtual cockpit screen is super crisp to read and customisable as per the drive and traction modes. The AVN system is fully compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto along with FM, Bluetooth, GPS etc. We loved the rotary dial for the volume and tuning on the all new Center dash unit that also houses the dual zone Climate control system along with others. The dash also gets a magnetic fabric pad where you can stick pics, notes etc. The steering unit is a four spoke leather wrapped flat bottomed unit with all the Multi function control buttons for ADAS & audio controls placed on it flimsiness in glossy black. You get manual height and reach adjust on this steering while it also comes with meaty paddle shifters on the automatic versions.
The automatic shifter is the aircraft style unit while placed around it are the dial for drive modes, electromechanical hand brake, hill hold, 360 degree camera, auto hold etc. You get a wireless charging dock, one USB C, one USB C along with 12V charge port for the front passengers. The drivers seat gets full electric adjust while both the front seats get the ventilation function. Seats are finished in faux leather with nicely done dual-tone shade along with an orange piping that runs on the edges. Front seats offer excellent comfort and visibility of the road ahead. The rear seats come with two adjustable head rest and a foldable arm rest too. Seats offer good seating angle and lots of under thigh support. Good knee, leg and head room is evident here while the comfort levels are further enhanced with two USB C charge ports, mobile holder and also a sun blind for the rear window’s.
In terms of boot capacity the New Hyundai Creta can absorb in 433 liter’s of luggage which is pretty good for its segment.
Engine – Transmission – Drive
Hyundai has always been offering the Creta in a plethora of engine and transmission options all of which get carried forward along with a new one. You have the 1.5L NA unit making 115PS, you also have the new 1.5L Turbo Petrol engine option making a class leading 160PS of power and the one we drove the tried and trusted 1.5L Diesel engine making 116PS of power.
Transmission options include a 6-speed manual, 6-speed Automatic, 7-speed DCT on the lineup.The diesel engine powering the new Creta has tons of low end torque and is also a highly refined unit. The New Creta drives real well at high speeds or at slow speeds where ever you want to put it. Steering feels crisp and feels connected at all speeds.
The cabin is well insulated with negligible tyre or road noise filtering in. Speed build up is quick and the New Creta feels planted at high speeds. The Torque convertor automatic transmission shifts quick and seamlessly. All wheel disc brakes offer a good bite and are aided with ABS and EBD which is standard across the range.
ADAS & Safety Tech
In terms of safety the New Creta comes with Level 2 ADAS which includes 19 features. On the standard safety list you get 6-airbags, ABS with EBD, Hill start assist, TPMS etc.
Competition Check
The New Hyundai Creta goes up against the likes of the Kia Sonet, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun MG Astor, MG Hector.
Verdict
The Creta has been the ruler of the segment since its launch and now with this timely update the New Creta gets even more lethal as it comes loaded with new features for safety, tech, comfort along with new looks inside-out. With the New Creta Hyundai wants to extend its dominance in its class, do we recommend it? Yes we always did and still do recommend it for you if you hunting for a SUV in this class. And all this with prices starting at just Rs. 10.99 Lakh.
Words – Ritesh Madhok
Video Edits – Bhushan Joshi