Wednesday 24 / April / 2024
When Hyundai launched its compact SUV – Creta in India last year, my close friend had to wait for six months since booking. Creta has been a huge hit in India and now the car is creating quite a buzz even in Oman ever since its launch.
As the compact SUV segment is fast growing in the Sultanate, Hyundai has made the right move by introducing a vehicle that is capable enough to suit passengers of all ages. It is compact, yet an SUV and looks like a baby Santa Fe. And it’s from Hyundai, which means it will be value for money.
Based on the new Hyundai i20’s platform, the Creta also shares several of its components with the premium hatchback. Is Creta the best-looking Hyundai? Yes it is. It has received the ‘Fluidic’ treatment, and the proportions are right, too. Yes, it doesn’t have the rugged looks compared to that of other SUV brands in its segment.
Premier interiors
Inside, things are far more premium. Quality materials have been used, and the dashboard looks neat. The cabin not only offers comfortable seats, with a good ride height, but also a slew of gadget and equipment in the higher variants to keep most buyers today happy. It’s got the right toys — keyless entry, bluetooth, steering controls, rear AC vents and rear parking sensor. The Creta is big on space as well. The front seats are large and comfortable. The boot-402 litres-is large enough to carry your groceries and other weekend’s worth of stuff.
An SUV for all conditions
But what really matters is how the car drives isn’t it? Well I already had one insight into that aspect when I drove the car briefly at Hyundai’s launch last year. After that first impression it was time to put the car through the paces with a real world road test. In terms of performance, the Creta with 1.6 engine comes out with distinction. The car’s big USP for me is the ride feel and its suspension settings.
Solid feel
The car has a solid feel to it, and isn’t too stiff either - meaning a comfortable ride even for rear passengers, without becoming soft or hapless. The Creta also has electronic stability control that works in conjunction with a vehicle stability management programme that caters to greater control when accelerating or braking hard, on varying surfaces, which helps the car to handle well in all conditions.
I have been driving it all day now, and I have been smiling throughout. Reason: Creta is mapped for quick responses and understands your need for power rather well.
Overall, with decent pricing, Creta is the best buy if you are looking for a compact SUV that suits your family. —[email protected]
Tech Specs:
Hyundai Creta, 1.6 litre
Body style : 5 door wagon
Weight (Kg): 1180
Power (hp): 123
Tourque (Nm): 152
Transmission: 6 Gear Automatic
Fuel Consumption : l/100km: 6.5-7.0
0-100km/h: 11.6 seconds
Dealers: Oman Trading Establishment LLC, : +968 2456 1788
