The new Creta is not just easy on the eyes, it also has new features that will suit parents and children equally well. Let's see what the all-new Creta offers the modern family.
1. A stylish, contemporary appearance
The svelte and futuristic Creta attracted the attention of other road users and pedestrians wherever we went. While the previous Cretas disappeared in a generic ocean of similiarly-priced SUVs, the new Creta is difficult to ignore. Those who value style as much as they do practicality will have an instant connection with the Creta. On more than one occasion, other drivers opened their windows in traffic to say "Nice car!" So, if you like to stand out, the new Creta is a great choice.
The interior is one of the best in the segment, featuring easy-to-read dials, an ergonomic layout, and a fuss-free, non-reflective infotainment touchscreen. It's a pity that the plastic surrounding the centre tunnel squeaks as your knees come in contact with it, especially when you turn a corner. This may not be an issue with every model, though - maybe I was just unlucky with this specific test vehicle.
2. More safety features
Earlier iterations of the Hyundai Creta had two to six airbags, but no traction control. Hyundai has specified the new 2021 Creta to the hilt with both active and passive safety features. While the entry-level Creta 1.5 Premium MT has only two airbags, the rest of the lineup have six. Other safety features that are standard across the board, include ABS with EBD, electronic stability program (ESP), Hill-start assist control, daytime running lamps, a rearview parking camera with parking sensors, and cruise control. Fog lights are standard on the Executive models, while all models have satellite buttons on the steering wheel. Sadly, the static bending headlights (aka cornering headlamps) are not available on the new model.
3. More convenience features
When you're travelling with the young ones on board, things like Apple CarPlay and additional USB charging points play a major role in keeping everyone quietly occupied. Fortunately Hyundai is very family-focused and all models in the line-up have the above-mentioned features, including a USB port for the second-row occupants. They also benefit from rear air-vents which is a feature not often seen in a car this size. Kids coming back from summer sports activities at school will be especially thankful. Other mod-cons include electric side mirrors, electric windows and wireless phone charging up front (Executive models only).
4. A spacious interior with family-friendly vinyl seats
Cleaning up spills and messes is so much easier when the seats are not made of cloth. Only the entry-level model has cloth seats, the rest of the Cretas have hard-wearing faux leather seats that can be wiped down easily. Pictured above is the dual-toned interior in the Executive models.
Fitting a child seat on the outer rear seats (via the ISOFIX anchorage points) is also a piece of cake because of the Creta's ground clearance, and rear doors that open sufficiently wide.
The Creta has plenty of legroom in the second row for taller passengers and the boot is a sizeable 433 litres, with a loading lip that is low enough to prevent you from hurting yourself when lifting heavy objects into it, such as large baby strollers.
5. Hyundai's winning warranty and after-sales service
Hyundai is the only manufacturer to offer an additional 2-year / 50 000 km powertrain warranty over and above a 5-year / 150 000 km warranty. (There is also a perforation warranty for 5 years / 160 000 km.) You also get a 4-year/ 60 000 km service plan and a whopping 7 years of roadside assistance. This is not a new feature, but we reckon it's a great motivator for buying a Hyundai. (Check out the full-size spare wheel above.)
Visit the Hyundai Creta microsite or download the brochure for the lates pricing and full list of specs.
