Hyundai was once the young upstart in the SA new-car market. The Korean brand came in and shook up the establishment with well-priced, well-specced, reliable vehicles. That was over twenty years ago and the automaker is now one of the established, trusted brands in SA. The same trick that Hyundai pulled years ago is now being carried out by numerous Chinese brands. But the latest Hyundai Creta is proof that the Korean company is not taking the new threat lightly.

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New, sorta…

The second generation Hyundai Creta was introduced locally about four years ago. The model slotted in between the likes of the entry-level Venue and mid-size Tucson. About two years after introduction the Creta underwent the knife and came out of surgery with a new face, one that brought it in line with the aforementioned Tucson.

The latest Hyundai Creta offers a (very) slightly revised appearance, although we are not sure anyone would really tell the difference unless you see it alongside its predecessor. The minor changes include restyled bumpers at both ends. In addition the DRLs (daylight running lights) are now sited along the top row of the air intake. 

Hyundai SA has also added the option of matte paint to the list (+R5 000), which is available in white, black and grey finishes. This new look includes black alloys as well as other areas that have been blacked out. Among these are the A- B- and C-pillars as well as the badges, roof rails and door handles. 

More Importantly

Of most interest to potential buyers is the fact that the prices of the latest Hyundai Creta are somewhat lower than its predecessor. Depending on the derivative, there is up to R20 000 to be saved. Not bad. Representatives from Hyundai SA say that the new pricing stems from additional support from HQ, which allowed the reduction.

Interestingly, the new pricing is offered with additional standard features depending on the derivative. All versions benefit from the newly placed DRLs as well as auto down/up electric windows up front. Additionally, faux leather seats and leather covering has been adopted for the steering wheels across the range. Other standard features include manual air-conditioning, cruise control, auto headlamps, touchscreen infotainment and a wireless mobile phone charger.

The top-spec ‘Executive’ version gains the most from this recent change. Updates to this variant include several active safety features. Among these are lane following assist (LFA), blind-spot collision avoidance rear (BCA), lane-keeping assists (LCA) and forward collision avoidance (FCA). 

Single Engine Option

The latest Creta remains unchanged under the skin, The model retains its powertrain a 1,5-litre naturally aspirated inline four. Hyundai quotes peak figures of 84 kW/144 N.m. The petrol engine is connected to the front wheels. Buyers can choose between a six-speed manual gearbox or an automatic transmission.

Latest Hyundai Creta Pricing

Premium (man): R449 900 (prev R469 500)
Premium CVT: R479 900 (prev R490 500)
Executive CVT: R519 900 (prev R522 500)