The Hyundai Creta (also known as the Hyundai ix25 in the Chinese market) is a subcompact family crossover SUV that was first introduced to the BRICS market in 2014. The first model was in production until 2019 when it was replaced by the current model. Overall, the Creta managed to become a big success for Hyundai as the sales numbers are proving it big time. So, is Hyundai Creta a good car?
The Hyundai Creta is indeed a really good car for what it is, but it isn’t perfect. The purpose of today’s article is to tell you what you need to know about the Creta and decide if the car is indeed good for you. The Creta is available with a few engines, most of them are powered by gasoline with one diesel engine as well.
The design is in line with Hyundai’s current design language which makes the Creta look modern and fairly attractive overall. The interior could do with higher-quality materials, but overall, it is a decent-looking car. Reliability is okay if the present time is anything to go by while long-term reliability is still a mystery.
Value-wise, the Creta seems to be doing okay as it isn’t overly expensive from new, yet is able to retain its value really well on the 2nd hand market. Practicality is really good for a car of this segment which is mostly thanks to its boxy design language.
Hyundai Creta – The Powertrain
The Hyundai Creta is available with a few different engines, most of which are gasoline engines. The gasoline lineup starts with the smaller 1.0L 3-cylinder engine that offers 120hp and comes with a 6-speed manual. The next in line is the 1.4L turbo 4-cylinder with 140hp which can be had with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DCT gearbox.
The 1.5L 4-cylinder turbo pushes out 115hp and it comes with a CVT or the 6-speed manual. The 2.0L 4-cylinder is the most powerful top-spec engine and it pushes out 170hp and is available with a 6-speed automatic only. All models of the Creta are FWD which is a shame for many as not having AWD is often a dealbreaker for many SUV owners.
As mentioned, you can also opt for a single diesel engine, a 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder with 115hp. This one can also be had with either the 6-speed manual or the automatic. The Creta is able to return between 26MPG and 36MPG on average which is a decent result for a compact SUV.
Hyundai Creta – Design and Driving
As far as the exterior design is concerned, the Creta looks in line with all the other Hyundai models which means that it looks futuristic and fairly sleek. The headlights are split and do look really similar to those found on the much larger Santa Fe SUV. The interior is nicely laid out, but the quality is a bit of a downgrade compared to global Hyundai models.
The driving experience is on par with all the other cars from this segment which means that the Creta drives in a fairly chilled manner without any special character traits. It is a comfortable and easy to drive family subcompact SUV, it isn’t a performance car nor does it try to be in any way, shape, or form.
Hyundai Creta – Reliability and Common Issues
As far as reliability is concerned, the Creta manages to stay relatively fault-free for the most part. Most owners are satisfied with how the Creta performs which is why there aren’t too many reports of it being unreliable. This does not mean that the Creta is free of faults, as no car is free of faults.
The most common problems with the Creta are associated with the ignition coils failing, the turbocharger failing, issues with the infotainment screen, and potential issues with the interior build quality. All in all, Hyundai makes really reliable cars and the Creta is no different.
Hyundai Creta – Value and Practicality
You can expect to pay Rs.10.44 – 18.24 Lakh in India where the Creta is most successful. For this price, you are getting a reliable, spacious, and relatively modern SUV that can satisfy most people, especially if they just want a dependable machine for point A to point B transportation.
As far as practicality is concerned, the Creta is fine as it sits up to four adults without too many issues. The cargo space is also decent, but it could use a bit more leg room in the second row of seats.
FAQ Section
Is there a waiting list for the Hyundai Creta?
As mentioned, the Hyundai Creta is a really popular car in many parts of Asia which is why getting one is not going to be as quick as some would hope for. This means you ought to wait between 5-6 months to take delivery of the Creta which is not surprising for such a popular car in such a big market.
Going through the used route is quicker and easier, but if you want a new Creta immediately, you are likely going to have to pay markups which are not always on the sensible side of things.
Is the Hyundai Creta a good long-distance car?
The Hyundai Creta is a good long-distance car as it offers relatively powerful and efficient engines, a quiet cabin, and enough creature comforts to keep you entertained for hours on end. It is not a luxury car by any stretch of the imagination, but it does feel more than good enough to do long slogs on the highway.
Is the Hyundai Creta a safe car?
The Hyundai Creta is a safe car overall, but it isn’t as safe as many other Hyundai SUVs are. It is said that the child protection of the Hyundai Creta isn’t as good as it is on most other Hyundai models which can be a dealbreaker for some.
However, this does not mean that the Hyundai Creta performed poorly yet that it isn’t as safe as many other Hyundai models are.
