Mid-size Matters

As one of the most popular cars in its highly competitive segment, the Hyundai Creta cannot afford to make mistakes, especially considering it is a significant contributor to Hyundai India's sales charts

- Joshua Varghese

THE HYUNDAI CRETA IS A NAME THAT ALWAYS CROPS UP among those contemplating a purchase in the mid-size SUV segment. It has been around since 2015 and we were in Jodhpur to drive the latest (that is, third) iteration of this popular car. The noteworthy changes this time include a new exterior design, new turbo-petrol engine, and the addition of Level Two ADAS. The details are as follows.

Like the outgoing model, the styling of this Creta also tends to polarize opinion. There are some who consider it easier on the eyes than the previous model and there are others who were disappointed because they were waiting for something that looked like the current generation of the Tucson. I belong to the former and I feel a good chunk of the latter will also rally around soon because it does make a strong impression in person. The front end has been significantly reworked, the stars of the makeover are the daytime running lights (DRL) that run the width of the car and the stacked headlights that are placed in the redesigned bumper. There is a fresh grille to match and a muscular bonnet to complete the look. The Creta continues to be offered with 16- or 17-inch wheels (depending on variant) but these have a distinct pattern and that is the only noteworthy change in the profiles of the car. The strong shoulder-lines culminate in an angular tail-end that is now dominated by a tail-light that runs the width of the car too. The LED signature is unique and adds an upmarket flair to the rear. Overall, the new styling goes well with the muscular stance of the car. I would just like to add that wider tyres may have further helped its cause.