Hyundai Creta 1,4T Executive DCT
Boasting an audacious makeover fit for Korea’s latest K-pop sensation, we sit back, relax and sample Hyundai’s new turbocharged Creta
Since the Hyundai Creta was introduced to the South African market in 2017, the humble crossover has sold an impressive 15 000 units, corralling more than 20% of B-crossover market share in the process. That’s no mean feat when you consider the waters it plays in: Ford Ecosport, Kia Seltos, Mitsubishi ASX, Peugeot 2008,
Renault Captur, Suzuki Vitara and Volkswagen T-cross ... all heavy hitters in compact crossovers.
Nowadays, though, the market has adapted and given birth to several spin-offs or sub-niches if you will. The Suzuki Jimny and Renault Duster 4x4, for example, represent genuine go-anywhere capability; while the other tallriding, two-wheel-drive candidates have wisely dropped the faux-by-four attitude and instead focused on getting the onroad bits right.
How exactly has Hyundai done that with the new Creta? Well, the firm has gone on a styling offensive with the blacked-out Cpillar and roof combo that’s suddenly so de rigueur, giving the sense the car is sleeker and lower than it really is. Its design was signed off by chief creative officer Luc Donckerwolke – of Lamborghini, Bentley and Audi design fame – and for an affordable crossover, it certainly looks edgy. The brash trapezoidal grille and the fussy separation of the headlight main beam, LED daytime running light and fog light are at odds with the Creta’s
once-conservative virtues. Integrated roof rails and 17-inch multi-spoke rims complete the package, although 18-inch items may have looked even better but would’ve encroached on Hyundai Kona territory we suppose. Spend enough time with it and you begin to warm to the makeover. Okay, maybe not warm to it, rather appreciate what the designers were trying to achieve. As always, styling is subjective and only time will tell if it is perhaps too radical a facelift in a segment where making waves doesn’t necessarily translate into sales.
Hop aboard and the interior styling is equally transformative from the Creta of old. Most Hyundai cabins are almost interchangeable; that’s how well nailed together (and slightly bland) they are, with only the softness of the materials used as a differentiator. In the top-spec Executive, the Creta has turned a corner though. The dashboard has received some much-needed shape, and subtle chrome details on the air vents and trim pieces add requisite sparkle. The new leather-covered multi-function steering wheel (only available in the Executive) is a premium item; an updated driver’s display is clear and concise; and the eightinch touchscreen infotainment system is easy to understand and operate. As far as safety and convenience features are concerned, the Creta is tip-top, with Apple Carplay and Android Auto, six airbags, cruise control and park assist. Comfortable, roomy (208/992-litres stowage capacity) and easygoing, it doesn’t purport to be any sort of faux-byfour, just a good crossover.
This newfound confidence continues through to the way it drives, largely thanks to the arrival of a new-generation downsized turbopetrol engine. The Creta is the first Hyundai locally to receive the 1,4-litre turbopetrol that takes over the cudgels from the old 1,6-litre naturally aspirated warhorse. 103 kw and 242 N.m is delivered to the road via a so-so sevenspeed dual-clutch automatic, which drives the front wheels only. It’s not as free-spinning or keen to rev as the lighter, fizzier 1,0-litre turbo in the Venue or Kona … not initially, at least, but performance is smoother and torquier owing to its increased displacement. This enables the Creta to reach 100 km/h from standstill in a claimed 9,7 seconds before topping out at 185 km/h, which is right on the money for a modern-day crossover. The impression we got from our first drive is that Hyundai South Africa understates its fuel economy at 7,20 L/100 km. After an extensive mixed-conditions journey, we achieved an average figure closer to 6,50 L/100 km.
Despite strong pulling power when you’re within its somewhat narrow torque band, the fourcylinder turbo din is almost totally muted in the Executive-spec car. Refinement is excellent. At higher speeds, the DCT is well geared and pulls along in top gear without the need for the gearbox to kick down if you want to overtake another vehicle. That said, gearing down is no hardship as the dual-clutch has accurate shift points with a pleasant throttle blip as you travel the ’box.
Even with its basic torsion beam rear suspension and
190 mm of ground clearance – usually a recipe to turn most crossovers into wallowy whales – it’s a decent handler. Good ride quality smooths over potholes, speedbumps and road imperfections without issue, and the steering is pleasingly accurate, as is the change of direction. All the effort that’s gone into using high-strength steel has delivered a structural integrity that is evident through every input from the steering wheel.
It seems Hyundai South Africa is onto a good thing with its crossover line-up. You’re spoilt for choice between the Venue, Creta, Kona and even an entry-level Tucson. As an overall package, the Creta makes a lot of sense; and as a styling exercise, it brings forth the full might of Hyundai Motor Company’s recent high-profile hires. Time will tell if this new direction will win over new fans. We’re happy to report we’ll be able to weigh in on the debate from next month as we add a brand-new Creta to our long-term fleet. Stay tuned.