The Hyundai Creta has been a popular compact SUV choice in the Indian market, and the recent facelift in early 2024 promises a refreshed design, upgraded features, and a more premium feel. But is it all sunshine and rainbows? Let’s take a deep dive into the pros and cons of the new Creta to help you decide if it’s the right fit for you.
Striking Looks and a Sophisticated Cabin
A Bold New Face
One of the most noticeable changes in the Creta facelift is the completely redesigned front fascia. The massive grille, now connected to the LED DRLs, gives the SUV a more imposing and aggressive look. This design might not be for everyone, but it makes a statement on the road.
Elevated Cabin Design
Step inside the new Creta, and you’ll be greeted by a completely revamped cabin. Gone is the cluttered look of the previous version; instead, you get a minimalistic and modern design with a clear focus on driver comfort. The dual 10.25-inch displays (instrument cluster and infotainment system) dominate the dashboard, and the gloss black finishes throughout the cabin add a touch of sophistication.
Material quality has also been significantly improved. The plastics used feel more premium, the padding is more substantial, and the leatherette upholstery enhances the overall upmarket feel.
Feature Packed for a Delightful Drive
The Creta facelift isn’t just about aesthetics; it comes loaded with features to make your driving experience more enjoyable and convenient. Here are some of the key highlights:
Dual 10.25-inch displays: A perfect blend of information and entertainment, these large displays offer crisp visuals and a user-friendly interface.
Panoramic sunroof: Bathe the cabin in natural light and enjoy a more open feel with this expansive sunroof.
Ventilated front seats: Beat the heat and stay cool on long journeys with these ventilated seats, a welcome addition to the Indian climate.
Level 2 ADAS: Take a step towards autonomous driving with features like adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, and auto emergency braking.
360-degree camera: Maneuvering in tight spots becomes a breeze with the help of this comprehensive camera system.
Practicality Considerations
While the new Creta scores high on design and features, there are a couple of aspects that might be a concern for some buyers.
Shallow Boot Space
The boot space in the new Creta remains the same as the pre-facelift version, offering 433 liters. This might be sufficient for a weekend trip with a couple of suitcases, but if you’re planning on longer journeys with a lot of luggage, the shallow design of the boot might pose a challenge. Opting for multiple smaller suitcases could be a workaround.
Limited Automatic and Turbo Variants
If you prefer the convenience of an automatic transmission, your options with the new Creta are somewhat limited. The 1.5-liter petrol engine only gets a CVT option in three variants, while the 1.5-liter diesel with a 6-speed automatic is available in just two variants. The new 1.5-liter turbo-petrol engine with a DCT is only offered in the top-spec SX(O) variant.
FAQs:
Q: What are the standout features of the facelifted Hyundai Creta?
A: The facelifted Creta offers improved styling, enhanced cabin quality, and a plethora of advanced features, including dual-zone climate control, panoramic sunroof, and Level 2 ADAS for enhanced safety.
Q: Is the boot space of the new Creta sufficient for long trips?
A: While the Creta maintains a 433-litre boot capacity, its shallow design may limit the accommodation of larger luggage items. Opting for smaller suitcases is advisable for extended travel.
Q: Are there ample automatic transmission options available in the new Creta?
A: The availability of automatic transmission options in the facelifted Creta is somewhat limited, with specific variants offering automatic transmission across petrol and diesel engines. Additionally, the turbo-petrol engine is exclusively paired with automatic transmission in a single top-spec variant.
