Hyundai Creta 1,6 Executive AT
Slight tweaks enhance the appeal of the Creta, already one of SA’S bestselling smaller SUVS
IN many ways, popularity gets you far in life. You may just get added to the weddingof-the-decade guest list, be picked for a top sports team or have your name put forward when a promotion is on the cards. Obviously, you still need the talent to back up the initial trust.
The Creta has done just this by selling more than 8 000 units since its launch in 2017 and more than 500 units a month on average in 2018. And this facelift aims to further increase its popularity.
The subtle updates are mostly cosmetic, which make for an interesting game of spot the difference. Look closely and you’ll see the grille is now bolder with more chrome accents, while new lights have been added all-round. The roof rails are neatly integrated, while the beesting aerial has been ditched in favour of a shark-fin design. There is also a fresh wheel design on offer.
As before, the only spec level is Executive but, in addition to the sort of kit this included before, this trim level now features cruise control and folding side mirrors. Inside, there are still no soft plastics to be found but fit and finish are excellent.
Under the bonnet, nothing has changed, which means the naturally aspirated 1,6-litre petrol engine still delivers 90 kw and 150 N.m to the front wheels via either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission (the 1,6-litre turbodiesel engine is again exclusively paired with the auto).
Although more compact than the Tucson to the right, the Creta is still large enough to fulfil most families’ needs. The driving position is good and it’s easy to fa- miliarise yourself with the switchgear and infotainment system.
I sampled the 1,6-litre petrol auto, which is perfectly adequate for day-to-day driving thanks to its easy-going nature. The downside of this engine’s lowly torque output is that it needs to be worked hard to keep pace with faster-moving traffic. Of course, this sees the indicated fuel consumption figure quickly jump from a claimed 8,4 L/100 km to more than 10,0.
CAR ran the turbodiesel as a long-termer and, in my opinion, if your budget allows, the additional torque and lower consumption are worth the R40 000 premium.
Our test route included Franschhoek Pass, where the Creta impressed with nimble, stable handling. It was also largely unfazed by a section of dirt road we covered at speed, although the suspension was occasionally caught out by deep ruts.
It’s clear why the small, Indian-built SUV from Hyundai has become so popular in South Africa. It offers excellent value at the price point and is a real option should your budget not quite stretch to the Tucson.