Hyundai SA doesn’t mess around. The local arm of the Korean automaker introduces new models, and/or derivatives, with regularity. Just a few days ago we drove the all-new Hyundai Tucson (which you can read about here). This week they have added the Hyundai Grand Creta to the company’s already extensive SUV portfolio.

Follow Double Apex on Facebook and Instagram, where we share more car content.

Across the board

When Hyundai SA says they offer an SUV/crossover for all types of buyers, they really do mean it. From the small Venue all the way up to the eight-seater Palisade, there is a size of SUV to suit almost anyone. Just take a look at the pic below to gauge the spread of vehicles on offer. The range of options grew this week with the introduction of a derivative of an existing product, called the Grand Creta. This version is larger than its namesake, as the name implies, and offers seating for up to seven occupants.

New appearance

The Hyundai Grand Creta has a similar appearance to the existing Creta, but it does differ stylistically in a few key areas. Among these are a new visage that makes it look very much like the top-of-the-food-chain Palisade. The signature C-shaped DRLs of the five-seat Creta have been retained. However, the grille treatment is a bit more bling in execution.

You can take a closer look at the ‘regular’ Creta here for comparison purposes.

The rear, too, has a new look. Horizontal taillamps replace the split units as seen on its sibling. There is no body-coloured panel in the middle of the taillamp on the Grand Creta. Viewed from behind you’d hardly tell the two cars are related, save for the badges.

The Hyundai Grand Creta has a longer wheelbase, which is notable when viewed in profile where. The newcomer has a full 150 mm of additional length added to its wheelbase (ie the distance between the centre line of the front and rear wheels). This has more than just the effect of increasing cabin space as we’ll explain later.

Familiar inside

The Hyundai Grand Creta isn’t wholly different inside when compared to other current products on offer. We spent some time behind the wheel of the range-leading Elite derivative during the launch event.

From the captain’s chair, we noted the same digital cluster found in many other group SUVs, as well as the same touchscreen infotainment system. In the Grand Creta, the Android Auto and Apple Carplay connectivity do require a cable, ie it isn’t wireless as found in some of the brand’s more recent offerings.

A few niceties specific to this trim level are the seat coolers, handy in the middle of a stinking hot summer, a full-length panoramic roof and parking sensors front and rear, with a rear-facing camera for good measure.

Space aplenty

Before setting off we had a look around the rear of the cabin. As mentioned, the Hyundai Grand Creta offers seating for up to seven. The longer wheelbase makes the cabin quite spacious for all passengers. Though the rear-most seats are ideal for little ones. The last two chairs are easily stowed into the floor of the boot to free up extra space when not needed. Incidentally, there is a full-size spare under the boot board. However, we did not see a luggage cover, which could be a problem.

Under the bonnet

The Grand Creta range is offered locally with a choice of petrol or diesel engines. There is a single variant with a manual gearbox and four options fitted with an automatic transmission. Both transmissions have six forward ratios which make for a five-car line-up, which you can see in detail at the bottom of this post.

Choose the petrol engine and you have 117 kW/191 N.m of torque on tap and the choice of either the manual or self-shifting transmissions. The 1,5-litre turbo diesel produces 85 kW along with 250 N.m of torque. This unit is mated only with the auto transmission.

Behind the wheel

We got to try out the 2,0-litre petrol Hyundai Grand Creta on the national ride and drive event held in the Cape. From behind the wheel, the newer car feels more relaxed and easy-going, certainly from a ride comfort perspective. This sensation was underlined when we left tarred roads for gravel tracks and dusty mountain passes of the Overberg region. We were impressed by the level of comfort and stability provided by the longer wheelbase. 

Summary of the Hyundai Grand Creta

It’s no secret that Hyundai is now casting itself as the go-to brand for SUVs/crossovers in the local context. Notably, the company offers no fewer than seven options to choose from. As Hyundai SA introduces new, more expensive models, such as the new Tucson and Palisade into the mix there are gaps for other products to take their places. We believe that the Hyundai Grand Creta will appeal to owners of the older Tucson, or those stepping up from a Kona and need the extra room. It is an interesting alternative for anyone who needs seating capacity that no other brand can offer at the same price point.

Grand Creta Pricing

2,0 Executive MT R449 900
2,0 Executive AT R489 900
1,5 Executive Diesel AT R509 900
2,0 Elite AT R539 900 
1,5 Elite Diesel AT R559 900