Hyundai Creta SX Premium iVT

Buying a new car in India is a big decision, isn't it? You think about your budget, how safe the car is for your family, what the monthly maintenance will be like, if it has all the latest features, and of course, how good the company's service network is. It's a lot to consider! Well, today we're taking a deep dive into a car that's been making waves in the Indian market and aims to tick all these boxes: the new Hyundai Creta SX Premium iVT. Let's find out if this popular SUV really lives up to the hype and if it's the right choice for your garage.

Engine That Moves You

The Hyundai Creta SX Premium iVT comes with a reliable 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. This engine is known for its smooth performance and refinement, making city drives and highway cruises quite comfortable. The iVT, which stands for Intelligent Variable Transmission, is essentially Hyundai's version of a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). It offers a seamless driving experience without the jerky gear shifts you might find in some other automatic cars, contributing to better fuel efficiency too.

• Engine Type: 1.5-litre MPi Petrol
• Maximum Power: Around 115 PS (at 6300 rpm)
• Maximum Torque: Around 144 Nm (at 4500 rpm)
• Transmission: iVT (Intelligent Variable Transmission)

Design - A Head Turner

The new Creta has received a significant update, making it look bolder and more modern. The SX Premium iVT variant truly stands out.

Exterior Design:

The front fascia features a striking parametric jewel design grille that merges beautifully with the connected LED DRLs (Daytime Running Lights). The split headlamp setup gives it a unique and imposing road presence. From the side, its muscular lines and stylish alloy wheels add to its SUV appeal. The rear also gets a fresh look with connected LED tail lamps, giving it a premium feel, especially at night. It's a design that will definitely turn heads on Indian roads.

Interior Design:

Step inside, and you're greeted by a refreshed and premium cabin. The dashboard has been redesigned for a more modern look, featuring a dual-screen setup. The quality of materials used feels upmarket, and the overall fit and finish are excellent. The layout is user-friendly, with controls placed intuitively. The cabin feels airy and spacious, perfect for long journeys.

Loaded with Tech - Key Features

Hyundai is known for packing its cars with features, and the Creta SX Premium iVT is no exception. Here are some notable ones:

• Infotainment System: A large 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Digital Cluster: A 10.25-inch full digital instrument cluster.
• Connectivity: Advanced BlueLink connected car technology.
• Panoramic Sunroof: Adds a touch of luxury and makes the cabin feel more open.
• Camera: 360-degree camera for easy parking and maneuvering in tight spots.
• Charging: Wireless phone charging.
• Comfort: Ventilated front seats (a boon in Indian summers!) and automatic climate control.
• Lighting: Ambient lighting.
• Steering: D-Cut multi-function steering wheel.

Practicality Check

• What is the Ground Clearance of Hyundai Creta SX Premium iVT: 190 mm. This is good enough to tackle most broken roads and speed breakers in India without worry.
• What is the Boot Space of Hyundai Creta SX Premium iVT: 433 litres. This is ample space for your weekend luggage or family groceries.
• What are the Dimensions of Hyundai Creta SX Premium iVT:
  • Length: 4330 mm
  • Width: 1790 mm
  • Height: 1635 mm (with roof rails)
  • Wheelbase: 2610 mm

Powertrain Options

While we are focusing on the SX Premium iVT (1.5L Petrol with iVT), it's good to know that the new Creta also offers other engine and transmission choices for different preferences:

• 1.5-litre MPi Petrol with 6-speed Manual Transmission (MT)
• 1.5-litre Turbo GDi Petrol with 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT)
• 1.5-litre U2 CRDi Diesel with 6-speed Manual Transmission (MT)
• 1.5-litre U2 CRDi Diesel with 6-speed Automatic Transmission (AT)

Safety First

Safety has become a top priority for car buyers, and Hyundai has significantly upgraded the new Creta's safety package. The SX Premium variant comes loaded with essential safety features:

• 6 Airbags (Standard)
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
• Vehicle Stability Management (VSM)
• Hill-start Assist Control (HAC)
• All-Wheel Disc Brakes
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• Rear Parking Camera with Sensors
• ISOFIX child seat mounts

NCAP Rating Table

A major highlight for the new Creta is its impressive safety rating under the new, stricter Indian testing protocols.

Note: The 5-star Bharat NCAP rating applies to the latest 2024 Hyundai Creta facelift. The previous generation's Global NCAP rating is for context.

Rivals of Hyundai Creta SX Premium iVT

The mid-size SUV segment is fiercely competitive in India. The Hyundai Creta SX Premium iVT competes with strong contenders like:

• Kia Seltos
• Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
• Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder
• Skoda Kushaq
• Volkswagen Taigun
• MG Astor

So, How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Let's sum up the experience of the Hyundai Creta SX Premium iVT.

Pros:

• Eye-catching Design: The new design is bold, modern, and has great road presence.
• Feature-Rich Cabin: Loaded with premium features like a panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, dual 10.25-inch screens, and a 360-degree camera.
• Excellent Safety Rating: A 5-star Bharat NCAP rating instills confidence.
• Smooth iVT Gearbox: The iVT offers a very refined and comfortable automatic driving experience, especially in city traffic.
• Refined Petrol Engine: The 1.5L engine is smooth, quiet, and offers adequate power for daily driving.
• Comfortable Ride: The suspension is well-tuned for Indian road conditions, offering a good balance between comfort and handling.
• Hyundai's Service Network: Wide and reliable service network across India.

Cons:

• No ADAS in this Variant: While higher variants get ADAS, the SX Premium iVT misses out on these advanced driver-assistance systems.
• Price Point: Can be considered slightly on the higher side compared to some rivals, especially as you climb up the variants.
• Fuel Efficiency: While the iVT helps, a naturally aspirated petrol engine might not offer the best-in-segment mileage, especially if driven aggressively.
• Steering Feedback: The steering can feel a bit light at higher speeds, which might not appeal to enthusiasts looking for more feedback.

Our Verdict

The Hyundai Creta SX Premium iVT is a compelling package for anyone looking for a stylish, feature-packed, and safe mid-size SUV. It addresses many concerns Indian car buyers have, from its impressive 5-star safety rating to its long list of creature comforts. The 1.5-litre petrol engine with the iVT gearbox offers a refined and smooth driving experience, perfect for urban commutes and comfortable highway trips. While it might miss out on ADAS at this specific trim level and comes at a premium, its overall appeal, strong brand value, and extensive service network make it a very strong contender. If you prioritize comfort, features, and safety in a well-rounded SUV, the Creta SX Premium iVT should definitely be on your test drive list. It's a car that truly delivers a premium experience without compromising on practicality.