Hyundai’s flagship mid-size SUV, the Creta, has been on an impressive growth trajectory, with a 5% sales increase in the first half of 2024. This best-selling SUV is nearing the significant milestone of 100,000 units sold within a year, further cementing its dominance in the Indian market.
Hyundai Creta Powertrain Options and Safety Features
The Hyundai Creta offers three engine options and four transmission choices to meet various driving needs:
- 1.5-liter diesel engine: Available with a 6-speed manual or a torque converter automatic transmission.
- 1.5-liter gasoline engine: Paired with a manual or a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).
- 1.5-liter turbo-petrol engine: Mated exclusively to a dual-clutch automatic transmission for a sportier drive.
Safety is a priority for Hyundai, and the Creta comes equipped with advanced features, including:
- Six airbags
- A 360-degree camera
- ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ESP (Electronic Stability Program)
- Level-2 ADAS, which includes frontal collision avoidance for enhanced safety.
The 2024 update, launched in January, has further improved the Creta’s competitive edge in the mid-size SUV segment with new design tweaks and tech upgrades.
Top Competitors of the Hyundai Creta
While the Hyundai Creta continues to lead, several mid-size SUVs offer strong competition. Here are five top alternatives:
1. Kia Seltos
- Price Range: ₹10.9 lakh – ₹20.4 lakh
The Kia Seltos is another popular choice from South Korea. It offers: - Engine Options: Three 1.5-litre engines, including a turbocharged petrol engine (158 bhp, 253 Nm) paired with a dual-clutch transmission.
- Features: A dual-screen digital display, radar-based ADAS, 360-degree camera, and blindspot monitoring ensure high-tech safety and convenience.
2. Skoda Kushaq
- Price Range: ₹11.7 lakh – ₹20 lakh
The Skoda Kushaq, built on a shared platform, offer: - Engine Options: 1.0-litre TSI engine (113 bhp, 178 Nm) and a more powerful 1.5-litre TSI engine (148 bhp, 250 Nm).
- Safety: SUV hold a 5-star Global NCAP safety rating and come equipped with six airbags, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), hill hold assist, and Multi-Collision Brakes.
3. Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder / Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
- Price Range: ₹10.7 lakh – ₹19.9 lakh
Developed under the Toyota-Maruti Suzuki partnership, these SUVs are the only mid-size SUVs to offer a factory-fitted hybrid powertrain: - Engine Options: 1.5-litre mild-hybrid and a strong hybrid powertrain (combined output of 113 bhp, 122 Nm).
- Features: Equipped with six airbags, 360-degree cameras, and an exclusive EV mode in the strong hybrid variant for improved fuel efficiency.
4. MG Hector
- Price Range: ₹13.9 lakh – ₹22.1 lakh
The MG Hector, available in five-seater and three-row Hector Plus versions, offers: - Engine Options: 1.5-litre petrol engine (141 bhp, 250 Nm) and 2.0-litre diesel engine (168 bhp, 350 Nm).
- Tech and Safety: Level-2 ADAS, a massive 14-inch infotainment screen, wireless charging, and a 360-degree camera for a feature-packed experience.
5. Tata Harrier
- Price Range: ₹15.49 lakh – ₹26.44 lakh
The Tata Harrier is another five-star safety-rated SUV with: - Engine: Powered by a Kryotec 2.0-litre diesel engine (167 bhp, 350 Nm) paired with a manual or automatic transmission.
- Safety & Infotainment: Offers seven airbags, a 12.3-inch infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a 360-degree camera for superior driving assistance.
Conclusion: Hyundai Creta’s Leadership in the SUV Market
With a wide range of powertrain options, advanced safety features, and regular updates to stay ahead of the competition, the Hyundai Creta remains a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment. However, with competitors like the Kia Seltos, Skoda Taigun, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, MG Hector, and Tata Harrier, car buyers are spoiled for choice. The right option depends on your individual preferences for power, tech, and budget.