The Creta nameplate might not be the oldest name in the Hyundai line-up, but it has been dominating the SUV stable since its local debut some three years ago.
With that said, 14 811 Creta SUVs have since found homes in Mzansi since 2017 when they launched.
For the 2020 model year, the Korean marque has introduced the second generation Creta that seeks to carry the outgoing Creta’s success to a whole new spectrum, and I spent time driving it in and around Gauteng.
The new Hyundai Creta joins the market in five derivatives with two specification levels: Premium and Executive.
Design-wise, the new Hyundai Creta has completely changed and it takes a few glances to get used to how it looks. The exterior gets fresh new styling with the range-topping Executive variant gaining a two-tone colour scheme.
The Premium models spawn halogen headlights while the Executive derivatives feature LED headlights as well as fog lights. There are sexy daytime running lights with a very unusual shape yet beautifully designed.
The Executive models ride on 17-inch alloy wheels while the Premium variants make use of 16-inch alloys.
Seven body colours are available in the new Creta range: Galaxy Blue, Lava Orange, Phantom Black, Polar White, Red Mulberry, Titan Grey and Typhoon Silver.
It is clearly larger than the model it replaces, being 4 300 mm in length, 1 790 mm in width, and has a stretched wheelbase that now measures 2 610 mm.
The increase in dimensions has resulted in improved interior space and the new Hyundai Creta can seat five individuals comfortably.
The interior is bolstered with latest infotainment and connectivity, such as a multifunction steering wheel with remote control buttons for the infotainment system, trip computer and cruise control, and a wireless charging pad (in the Executive derivatives).
There is an 8-inch infotainment system for both variants with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto that was very easy to use.
The Premium variants feature cloth seats, while the Executive derivatives feature artificial leather that offers optimum support.
Other added features for comfort include rear park assist sensors and camera as well as rear air vents, stability control, ABS brakes, tyre pressure monitors and hill assist control.
Seat trims are available in grey and black cloth for the Premium derivative; grey and black leather for the Executive versions; and black leather seat trim with red accents for the flagship Creta 1.4 TGDI Executive DCT.
The new Hyundai Creta line-up consists of four derivatives from India, a naturally-aspirated 1.5 four-cylinder engine with 85 kW and 144 Nm of torque and can be had either with a six-speed manual or IVT continuously variable auto transmission.
There is a force-fed 1.4-litre petrol derivative that churns out 103 kW and 242 Nm mated with a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
The oil burner comes courtesy of a turbodiesel 1.5-litre unit with 85 kW and 250 Nm plus a six-speed automatic transmission. All derivatives are driven by the front wheels.
At the launch I only had the opportunity to sample the 1.4-litre petrol variant and it makes an impressive SUV in its respective stable.
The Creta’s refinement, as well as enhanced sound deadening that reduces the vehicle’s noise and vibration can be felt.
On the road, the previous-gen Creta’s comfort has been carried over to this one. Its ride quality is smooth with excellent bump absorption.
Safety comes courtesy of front and side airbags for the driver and front passenger, and two curtain airbags that offer protection for rear passengers. Side and curtain airbags are not included in the Premium derivative.
ISOFIX child seat attachments are standard in all derivatives, as well as 3-point inertia-reel safety belts with pretensioners.
The models come fitted with ESC, Hill-start assist, as well as a tyre pressure monitoring system.
Pricing
- Creta 1.5 Premium (manual) R 374 900
- Creta 1.5 Executive IVT R 429 900
- Creta 1.5 Executive IVT (2-tone) R 434 900
- Creta 1.5 Executive Diesel (automatic) R 469 900
- Creta 1.5 Executive Diesel (automatic) (2-tone) R 474 900
- Creta 1.4 TGDI Executive DCT (2-tone) R 484 900
All Cretas are sold with a 7-year / 200 000 km manufacturer’s warranty; 4-year / 60 000 km service plan; and roadside assistance for 7 years or 150 000 km.
