HYUNDAI’S Creta range in South Africa got another uplift with the addition of two new Matte Edition derivatives, more convenience and safety features, and a reduction in the prices of certain versions of this medium-size SUV.
The Creta range still comprises three derivatives with two different specification levels: Premium and Executive, both using a 1,5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine as the power source in combination with either a 6-speed manual gearbox or an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), which is the only choice for the Executive.
An exciting new feature of the range is the addition of an optional matte exterior paint finish, which comes with three options: Midnight Black Matte, Magnetic Silver Matte, or Optic White Matte – available for both Premium and Executive specification versions.
Fresh new styling for Matte Edition
The Hyundai Creta’s exterior styling, particularly the attractive front grille and lights design, remains the same, but, apart from the new exterior paint finish, the new Matte Edition has undergone a few subtle changes to the lower part of the nose and rear design.
The daytime running lights, LEDs on all derivatives, are still incorporated into the parametric jewel pattern grille – as with the Hyundai Tucson – and makes the Creta almost appear like a smaller sibling of the Tucson.
Apart from the different body paint finish, special glossy black 17-inch black rims distinguish the Matte Edition versions from the other Cretas in the range. The A and C pillars of the Matte Edition cars are finished in high gloss black, and the front and rear skid plates sports a matte black colour versus the silver of the other Cretas. Door handles and outside rear-view mirrors of the Matte Edition have a high gloss black finish too.
Cabin and convenience features
On the inside, the Creta sports the same cabin with its clean, sometimes minimalistic fascia and trim. It is a spacious car, also for rear passengers, who benefit from added comfort in the form of a centre arm rest with cup holders that fold out of the backrest for the middle seat in the rear bench. The driver seat’s height can be adjusted, and with the telescopic and height adjustment of the steering it creates a comfortable driving position.
The Premium derivatives in the Creta range now also come with artificial leather covering for the seats, gear lever knob and steering wheel, and automatic up or down one touch power control of the driver’s window.
Matte Edition versions, in Premium as well as Executive guise, are equipped with button start control and smart key entry.
Located in the middle of the fascia is the infotainment system, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and featuring an 8-inch touch screen. A Bluetooth system with voice recognition enables the driver or passengers to select several functions through voice commands. The Executive version comes with four speakers and twi-tweeters, opposed to four speakers for the Premium derivatives.
Apart from the infotainment USB connection in the centre console, the new Creta has an extra 12V power socket, as well as a USB charging socket and storage place in a console for the rear passengers. This console also contains rear air vents for the Creta’s manual air conditioner.
Petrol engine, with manual or Continuous Variable Transmission
A four-cylinder petrol engine with a 1 497-cc displacement is used as the power source for the Creta. It is linked to either a six-speed manual gearbox, for the Premium, or an automatic Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), for both Premium and Executive versions, and drives the car through the front wheels.
The 1,5-litre naturally aspirated engine delivers 84 kW peak power at 6 300 r/min. and 144 Nm maximum torque at 4 500 r/min.
The Intelligent Variable Transmission, which uses a chain belt and pulley system with an increased gear ratio span, keeps the engine and gearbox operating at optimum torque levels. Gear changes, with six distinguishable steps, can also be made manually with the IVT.
With a handsome 20-cm ground clearance, the Creta is capable of venturing off tarred roads onto the gravel with confidence, helped by the adequate 60-profile tyres on 17-inch alloy rims.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) ensures control even in difficult road conditions, while a tyre pressure monitoring system gives early warning should a tyre run flat.
All Cretas are sold with a 7-year / 200 000 km manufacturer’s warranty; a 4-year / 60 000 km service plan; and roadside assistance for 7 years or 150 000 km.
Prices start from R449 900 for the
Creta 1.5 Premium MT all the way to R524 900 for the Creta 1.5 Executive IVT (Matte Edition)
