If you are looking to buy a mid-size SUV in India, there is one name that inevitably pops up in every conversation: The Hyundai Creta.
Since its launch in 2015, the Creta has been the “default choice” for many families, racking up sales of over 9.5 lakh units. But with the 2024 facelift, Hyundai hasn’t just given it a nip and tuck; they’ve given it a serious upgrade.
Is it still the “Ultimate” SUV? Here is everything you need to know in simple terms.
1. Looks That Turn Heads (Finally!)
Let’s be honest, the previous Creta’s design was a bit “love it or hate it.” The 2024 facelift changes that.
- The Front: It now looks bolder and boxier, drawing inspiration from the big-brother Tucson and the Venue. The new “Black Chrome” parametric grille looks classy and ditches the excessive shiny silver chrome.
- The Lights: You now get connected LED tail lamps and sequential turn indicators (the ones that swipe!), giving it a very premium, Range Rover Evoque-like vibe from the rear.
- Colours: If you want to stand out, check out the new Robust Emerald Pearl (a metallic bottle green) shade.
2. A Cabin Straight Out of the Future
Step inside, and it feels like an upgrade. The dashboard now features a seamless integration of two screens:
- The Screens: You get a 10.25-inch infotainment screen connected to a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. It looks super modern.
- Comfort is King: In Indian summers, the ventilated seats are a blessing. You also get a panoramic sunroof (voice-enabled!) which makes the cabin feel airy.
- Cool Feature: There is a magnetic pad on the dashboard (like the Ioniq 5) where you can stick notes or pictures using a magnet.
3. Safety: The Elephant in the Room? Addressed!
The older Creta took some heat for its safety ratings. Hyundai has taken this seriously with the 2024 model.
- Standard Safety: You now get 6 Airbags, all-wheel disc brakes, and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) as standard across all variants.
- Level 2 ADAS: The top variants come with Hyundai SmartSense, offering 19 autonomous features like auto-emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. It’s like having a co-pilot watching the road for you.
- Build: Hyundai claims to have reinforced the body structure with high-strength steel for better protection.
4. Engine Options: Power for Everyone
Whether you want mileage or speed, there is an engine for you:
- The Reliable One: 1.5L Petrol (Normal) – Great for city driving.
- The Mile-Muncher: 1.5L Diesel – Perfect for long highway runs.
- The Rocket: The new 1.5L Turbo-Petrol produces a massive 158 BHP. It does 0-100 km/h impressively fast and makes overtaking a breeze.
5. Is it Perfect? (The Nitpicks)
No car is perfect. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Glossy Black Overload: The interior has a lot of “Piano Black” plastic, which looks great when new but is a magnet for dust, fingerprints, and scratches.
- No Wireless Phone Tech: Strangely, the top-end models with the big screens miss out on wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (you still need a cable), though lower variants might get it.
- Tight Rear: If you have very tall passengers (over 6 feet) sitting one behind the other, legroom can feel a bit tight compared to some rivals.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?
Absolutely. The 2024 Hyundai Creta hits the sweet spot. It offers a comfortable ride that absorbs potholes well, feels premium inside, and is loaded with features. With prices starting from Rs. 10.99 lakh (ex-showroom), it offers a package that is very hard to beat.
Whether you are driving to the office or heading for a weekend trip, the Creta continues to be the “King” of the segment.
Dhanush, an automobile expert with over 5 years of experience in the latest auto news and updates. Your go-to source for every development in the world of cars and bikes
Dhanush, an automobile expert with over 5 years of experience in the latest auto news and updates. Your go-to source for every development in the world of cars and bikes