Introduction

The Creta is essentially a result of Hyundai India’s continuous assault on as many spheres of the Indian car market as possible. While Hyundai has already made its mark in the premium hatchback and C-segment markets with the i20 and the Verna respectively, the brand recently forayed into the compact SUV space with the highly impressive Creta.

Why I'd buy it

If you ask me, the Creta’s biggest strength is the quality of the interior and the amount of features on board. Hyundai ends up offering more bang for your buck than a top-spec Renault Duster fitted with all the imaginable aftermarket accessories. Also, the Creta boasts of a fairly simple layout for the dashboard which makes it all the more easier to get accustomed to all the bits and buttons.

The Creta is also impressive on the go. The 1.6-litre diesel motor, especially, delivers a strong punch throughout the rev range with minimal turbo lag which makes it easy to drive. And the way it goes about its business in a smooth and silent manner makes it a great long distance companion. Lastly and the most surprising bit about the Creta is the way it tackles our roads. Unlike most of its previous creations, the Creta feels sorted in any given condition with decent handling and a comfortable ride.

Why I'd avoid it

As impressive as it looks and feels, the interior of the Creta isn’t the most spacious in terms of width. Although both the front and rear seats are adequately comfortable with a good amount of legroom, the rear seat is good enough only for two grownups. In comparison, the wider Duster fares much better when it comes to seating three adults in the rear.

Although I wouldn’t exactly avoid the Creta for this reason but it’d be worth mentioning that the car is a bit of a pricey affair. With prices starting at Rs 8.59 lakh for the entry-level petrol variant, scaling all the way up to Rs 13.60 lakh for the top-spec diesel.

My favourite version

Hyundai has a knack of offering its products in several different versions and the Creta is no different. The compact SUV, in fact, is being offered in up to 10 versions and with all things considered, I’d go with the 1.6SX Plus Auto which comes in at Rs 13.58 lakh. I say automatic because it combines the efficiency of a diesel motor with the convenience of an automatic gearbox. Now the 6-speed torque converter in this car isn’t the most advanced gearbox out there, however, it still does a pretty good job of changing cogs for you.

Quick facts

Price: Rs 8.60 lakh to Rs 13.60 lakh

Engine: 1.6-litre petrol, 1.4-litre diesel and 1.6-litre diesel

Gearbox: 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic

Fuel efficiency: 13kmpl to 19kmpl