New-gen Hyundai Creta SUV to be launched in India on March 17: What to expect?

Hyundai has confirmed the launch of the new-gen Creta in India on March 17. This will be the second generation offering of the popular SUV that is positioned in the same segment as the Kia Seltos, MG Hector, Mahindra XUV500, Renault Duster, Nissan Kicks, etc. The SUV was already showcased to the Indian audiences at the 2020 Auto Expo. The new-gen Creta gets a completely new design language. which is based on the similar theme as the Venue SUV. In addition, the features list of the Creta will be revisited to make it feel more premium than before and also as kitted as the Kia Seltos, its platform sibling. The powertrain options too have been updated for the 2020 Hyundai Creta. Here is what all can you expect from the new-gen Creta in India

Design

The new-gen Hyundai Creta looks identical to the China-spec ix25, that was unveiled at the Shanghai Auto Show last year. Taking design inspiration from the much premium Hyundai Palisade, that also happens to be Hyundai's flagship in the international markets, the new-gen Creta's front looks a lot distinct when compared to the outgoing offering. This could be a polarizing trait as when showcased at the Auto Expo 2020, the SUV's design did attract mixed reactions.  The cascading grille too will have a seamless one-piece design, which will be sharper and more imposing than the ix25's unit. The detailing of the bumper-mounted headlights will be different too and like the rest of the facial elements, the design will aim at giving the front end a more upright stance compared to the ix25. At the rear, Hyundai India is likely to chuck the split design for the lighting elements seen on the ix25 and go with a more Seltos like design that will highlight the width of the car. The new Creta will also sit on a longer wheelbase than before, achieving a roomier cabin.

Features

At the Auto Expo 2020, Hyundai did not reveal the interior of the 2020 Creta. However, the cabin is said to get a grey and black treatment, along with a larger sunroof, ambient lighting and two-step reclining rear seats. The infotainment system will be similar to the Palisade, with a new 10.25-inch horizontal touchscreen system with Hyundai's BlueLink connectivity and SOS feature. We expect more functionality added to the BlueLink suite to surpass the Seltos. We would rather have Hyundai bring in the larger vertical screen seen on the ix25, with integrated AC controls. We are told that the top-spec trims of the Creta will receive digital instrumentation too. Alongside a two-zone climate control, like the Venue and Seltos, there will be an integrated air purifier too.

Powertrain

The powertrain options will be similar to the Seltos - BSVI compliant 1.5-litre petrol and diesel engines and a 1.4-litre direct-injection petrol - all available with manual and automatic transmissions. This isn't the only similarity with the Seltos. On certain variants, there will be driving and terrain modes too.

Competition and prices

Presently, the Creta is positioned between Rs 10 lakh to Rs 15.71 lakh, ex-showroom, Mumbai. We expect the prices of the new-gen Creta to not deviate much from this range giving it an edge over its rivals like the Mahindra XUV500, Tata Harrier, Renault Captur and the Nissan Kicks