Introduction
The new Hyundai Creta gets a refreshed exterior and interior design with some new features. It was unveiled in Indonesia and while the India model will be slightly different, it gives us a good idea of what to expect. In this article, we will take a detailed look at what the new Creta offers along with a driving experience review.
Exterior Design
Front Grille
The front grille is all-new and follows Hyundai\’s latest design language. It gets a prominent cascade grille finished in black and nicely integrates with the headlamps. This gives the Creta an aggressive yet premium front fascia.
Headlamps
The headlamps are also redesigned. They get split LED units with the main headlamp sitting lower down. The Daytime Running Lamps are positioned on top separately. This new headlamp design makes the front look very distinctive.
Side Profile
From the sides, the new Creta looks similar to the current model sold in India barring some minor changes. The window sills get a black finish and there\’s also a panoramic sunroof on offer. The 17-inch alloy wheels fill up the arches well.
Rear Design
At the rear, Hyundai has retained a similar design as the current model. The tail lamps, bumper, and other elements are mostly unchanged. The only noticeable difference is the tweaked lower bumper.
Interior Design
Rear Seats
Space at the rear is plentiful and the seats get adjustable headrests. There\’s decent legroom and headroom even for tall passengers. You also get rear AC vents, charging sockets, and cup holders in the foldable center armrest.
Front Cabin
The dashboard layout is identical to the India-spec Creta except for the smaller 8-inch infotainment display. You get a digital instrument cluster, ventilated front seats, wireless charging, multiple driving modes, an air purifier, and more. The quality levels are impressive.
Steering Wheel
The steering wheel design is different from the Indian model and misses out on a few controls. However, you still get audio and phone controls along with buttons for ADAS features. The steering feels nice to hold with adequate leather wrapping.
Instrument Cluster
A fully digital instrument cluster is on offer that lets you switch between various themes and display information. This will come in handy with the ADAS features that the new Creta will get.
Infotainment System
The touchscreen infotainment system is smooth to operate but is smaller at 8 inches compared to the 10.25-inch unit in Indian Creta. However, the layout and overall functionality remain almost similar. You also get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Other Features
Other features include push-button start/stop, electronic parking brake, wireless phone charging, air purifier, cooled glovebox, electric sunroof, multiple driving modes, and more.
Engine and Performance
Internationally, the Hyundai Creta gets a 1.5-litre petrol engine mated to an IVT automatic gearbox. Power output stands at 115PS while torque output is rated at 144Nm. Performance is adequate for regular use but lacks excitement. The gearbox has the typical rubber-band effect of CVTs.
Driving Experience
Steering Feedback
The steering wheel is light to operate and makes driving around town very convenient. Feedback levels are satisfactory and weight build-up at highway speeds is minimal. Overall, it doesn\’t feel disconnected or vague.
Suspension
Ride comfort is impressive thanks to the well-tuned suspension. It nicely irons out bumps and potholes. Bad roads are handled competently and the Creta remains stable over undulations. Body roll is also controlled.
Visibility
Forward and side visibility is excellent thanks to the tall stance and large glass area. The mirrors are large and have a good field of vision. Rear visibility is decent but a 360-degree parking camera would have been useful.
Expected Changes in the Indian Model
The India-spec Hyundai Creta facelift will get major updates to comply with upcoming safety norms. Expect features like:
- New front grille and exterior design
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
- 360-degree parking camera
- ADAS features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert
- Level 2 autonomous capabilities
- 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Improved rear seat comfort and features
Conclusion
The new Hyundai Creta gets noticeable design updates along with new interior features and technology. It improves upon the popular SUV while retaining its core strengths of space, comfort, features, and value. The India model will take things further with more safety tech and powerful engine options. Overall, the new Creta looks all set to be an even stronger contender in the competitive midsize SUV space.
FAQs
Q1. What are the expected changes in the new Hyundai Creta India model?
The India-spec Hyundai Creta facelift will get major updates like a new exterior design, ADAS features, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, improved safety, new engine options, and more features.
Q2. What new safety features will it get?
Expect features like blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, 360 camera, lane keep assist, and level 2 autonomous capabilities on the upcoming Creta facelift.
Q3. Will it get more powerful engine options?
Yes, the new Creta for India will get more powerful turbo-petrol and diesel engine options along with DCT gearbox on select variants.
Q4. Is the new Creta bigger in size?
No, the new Creta has the same dimensions as the current India model. Space and cabin room remain unchanged.
Q5. What will be the expected launch timeline?
We expect the Hyundai Creta facelift to launch around mid-2023 in India. It will compete with Kia Seltos, MG Astor, and VW Taigun among others.
