HYUNDAI CRETA ELECTRIC

Hyundai jumps onto the mass market EV bandwagon with its bestselling midsize SUV

-  ABHAY VERMA

HYUNDAI CRETA ELECTRIC EXCELLENCE 51.4KWH

Powertrain: 51.4kWh battery pack, single electric motor, FWD

Weight: NA

Power: 171PS Torque: 200Nm

Range: 473kms (ARAI)

Price: 23.50 lakh ex-showroom

Back in 2015, the Hyundai Creta defined the midsize SUV segment to say so. It was also a product that made every other manufacturer sit up and take notice with its success, and besides becoming the highest selling midsize SUV in India, the Creta has also become one of the most popular nameplates over the past 10 years. And exactly a decade later the Creta Electric is here, and clearly, Hyundai is aiming to have it chart history in similar fashion.

One of the first things to notice about the Creta Electric is that it does not look quirky or very different from the petrol and diesel versions. This is a good thing in my books, as it offers a sense of familiarity. However, there's enough differences to tell this one apart with EV-specific cues like the closed off grille, though Hyundai has retained the regular Creta's headlamps and DRLs. The grille also uses a pixelated design, like the IONIQ5's. The front bumper is different, and also integrates active flaps for cooling the battery pack. The effect is a face that looks familiar but more futuristic. The wheels use a new design, while ground clearance is impressive at 200mm, and enough to drive over speed breakers or even tread off tarmac. The Creta Electric looks familiar from the rear as well, especially the tail lamps and LED strip connecting them, though the rear bumper and reverse light are different.