Hyundai Creta

• I like the overall styling, which is a blend of modern and rugged elements with squared-out styling cues and chunky cladding.

• The updated design makes the Creta look more appealing with connected lighting at the front and rear.

• Lower variants get 16-inch wheels, whereas higher models get 17-inch alloy wheels.

• Hyundai has completely redesigned the dashboard and improved plastic quality.

• I liked the dual-tone colour scheme and contrast-coloured elements. However, the gloss black plastics used are prone to scratches. 

• There are no complaints for in-cabin storage: sizable door pockets, cupholders, seat back pockets, the Creta offers ample space for anything you may have.

• The width and comfort of the front seats are appreciable. 

• Rear seat space is a highlight for the Creta, offering ample space even for 6 footers and I appreciate the creature comforts like sun shades and neck pillows. 

• Due to a flat seat back, seating 3 people is comfortable too. However, the middle passenger will miss a headrest on longer roadtrips.

Features

​​​​​​​

• The Creta gets a long list of standard safety features, while higher variants add equipment like Level-2 autonomous driving assistance system (ADAS) and 360-degree camera.

• This facelifted version of the Hyundai Creta hasn’t been crash tested by any NCAP agency yet.

With a storage space of 433 litres, the Creta’s boot space isn’t the segment-best, though it can still gobble up quite the luggage with some proper planning. You have a wide loading bay, but because the boot floor is high, you don’t get adequate area to stack items one on top of another. Use multiple small or medium sized suitcases here and you’ll still have space for a duffle bag or two. 

So four people’s weekend getaway worth of luggage isn’t an issue and you can store additional items by folding the 60:40 rear seats. They fit flush with the floor so you can store some long items as well.

1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol

• This petrol engine of the Creta is smooth and refined, best suited for city driving.

• Acceleration isn’t strong, but it’s ample for relaxed driving.

• In the automatic (CVT) model, the drive experience is smooth with no jerks.

• It cruises effortlessly at speeds of 100-120kmph. Overtakes will need planning at higher speeds, especially if you’re travelling with family and/or luggage.

• You can expect a fuel efficiency of 10-12kmpl in the city and 14-16kmpl on the highway.

1.5-litre turbo-petrol

• The turbo-petrol engine offers an exciting drive. It drives smoothly in heavy traffic and overtakes in the city are easy.

• The dual clutch automatic transmission (DCT) feels smooth when driving in a relaxed manner, and quick and snappy when needed.

• Hitting triple digit speeds is easy and even overtaking at those higher speeds doesn’t take much effort.

• It’s not very efficient in the city: 10kmpl is a best case scenario if used in heavy traffic. Highway efficiency is better, and you can expect a mileage between 13-15kmpl.

1.5-litre diesel

• The diesel offers an effortless drive in the city, while the performance is adequate for highway usage. 

• With plenty of low-end torque, you don’t need to downshift frequently with the manual. As for the torque convertor (AT), it is smooth and offers quick shifts.

• You can expect 13kmpl and 18kmpl in the city and highway, respectively.

• The diesel-automatic combination would be my pick out of all options, since it offers the best balance of performance and fuel economy.

• The Creta’s suspension absorbs most of the city’s rough roads and potholes, while maintaining stability and comfort over undulations or expansion joints on the highway.

• You will feel some minor movement over sharper speedbreakers or deeper potholes.

• A constant up/down movement can also be felt inside if the road surface isn’t smooth, which can cause slight discomfort on longer highway trips.

• It also poses strong braking performance with a 100-0kmph stopping distance of 38.12 metres. 

Which variant of Hyundai Creta is value for money? 

• Consider the EX variant of the Creta if your budget is tight.

• Overall, the S(O) variant of the Creta feels the most value for money as it covers all needs and some wants too.

If I was in the market for a comfortable, spacious and feature-loaded SUV for my family, the Creta would definitely be on the shortlist. It’s more feature-loaded and safer than ever before, while still delivering on its comfort and ease of drivability aspect. There’s no real compromise on any front and its all-round package makes it a benchmark in the segment.

Other cars to consider instead of the Hyundai Creta

Kia Seltos

Reasons to consider

• Sharper styling

• Better value in lower variants

Reasons to ignore

• Slightly less comfortable ride 

• Less family focused

Toyota Hyryder/Maruti Grand Vitara

Reasons to consider

• Much more fuel efficient (Hybrid)

• Better ride quality

Reasons to ignore

• Not as refined and powerful 

• Less premium cabin experience 

Honda Elevate

Reasons to consider

• Slightly better ride comfort

• Bigger boot space

• Top variant undercuts massively

Reasons to ignore

• No turbo-petrol or diesel option

• Misses out on a few features

Volkswagen Taigun/Skoda Kushaq

Reasons to consider

• Feels more enthusiast-oriented

Reasons to ignore

• Better as a 4-seater 

• No diesel or NA petrol option