Hyundai Creta, Hyundai’s take on the sub compact SUV

Currently the craze in the automotive industry is to make smaller and smaller vehicles, and even the 4×4’s are getting smaller, Hyundai are the latest to join the trend with their new Creta compact SUV which is already for sale in China and India.

The outer shell is made of advanced high strength steel and ultra high-strength steel for lightness to reduce fuel mileage, body endurance and enhanced collision protection to keep occupants safe. Numerous safety features have been implemented inside and out; multiple airbags are located in the front and sides of the cabin, Electronic Stability Control, ABS and hill-start assist control is present to aid the starting process on inclines and prevent rollback. A number of sound insulation measures have been implemented to ensure reduced road and engine noises. With its sloping roof, forward air flow resistance is reduced for improved stability and fuel economy.

Various trim levels are available starting with the base model, S, S+, SX, SX+ with the highest trim level being SX(O) coming equipped with 17-inch five-spoked rims, a reverse camera, LED daytime running lights, roof rails, leather interior, a 5-inch touchscreen infotainment with navigation, inputs for via USB and AUX to play audio through a four-speaker sound system. Devices can be paired via Bluetooth and 1GB internal storage is optional. It can carry up to five passengers and has ample boot space for a weekend away. Keyless go will also be an option.

Three engine variants are available: one petrol and the other two are fueled by diesel, the petrol engine is a 4 cylinder 1.6-litre Gamma Dual VTVT rated at 121 horsepower with 151 Nm of torque. One diesel engine is a 1.4-litre 4 cylinder U2 CRDi producing 89 horsepower and 260 Nm of torque, the other is a 1.6-litre U2 CRDi VGT producing 126 hp and 220 Nm of torque

All engines are paired with a standard six-speed automatic gearbox with diesel options, a six-speed manual is optional.

A similar vehicle named the ix25 is for sale in the Chinese market, other markets around the world have yet to be confirmed, however Hyundai have stated they have global ambitions so we can expect it in other markets. The Korean company drew inspiration of the name from a particular Greek island, Crete. The name will be used worldwide.

When it hits global markets its competitors on the road include Renault’s Duster and Ford’s Ecosport, lets see how they stack up against each other.

Hyundai Creta will be making its why to our shores sometime before the end of the year, till then, check out dubicars.com listings of new Hyundai and used Hyundai in Dubai, don’t forget to give us your opinions on compact vehicles below!