The launch of the Hyundai Creta has caused quite a stir in the compact-crossover SUV market.

It competes in a highly competitive market segment with the likes of Ford Eco-sport, Toyota CHR, Nissan Juke; Renault Kadjar; Nissan Qashqai, Mazda CX-3, Opel Mokka X, Jeep Renegade to name only a few.

Creta is offered in front-wheel drive only, but has a generous 190mm ground clearance
The Creta is smaller than its brother the Tucson at around 4.2m compared to the Tucson 4.4m. The boot space is not bad for a vehicle in this class at 402-litres. The cabin size is also generous and should seat 5 adults comfortably.

To be honest the cabin plastics has a hard feel to it but it’s not unbearable.

The Creta’s navigation and MP3/USB/Bluetooth infotainment system are operated by a large 20.3cm touchscreen, supplemented by buttons on the multifunction steering wheel.
Standard safety fare across the range comprises six airbags and ABS brakes (but no traction control)

The Creta is only offered with two 1.6-litre derivatives: a normally-aspirated four cylinder petrol and a four-cylinder turbodiesel. Also note they will also only be available in front-wheel drive.

The petrol, available in a choice of six-speed manual or six-speed automatic, producing 90kW and 150Nm for a claimed top speed of 165km/h(manual) and 169km/h (auto), while fuel consumption’s claimed at 7.9 litres per 100km for the manual and 8.4 litres for the auto.

In my opinion the 1.6 turbo diesel is the better choice with its 94kW and 260Nm, fuel consumption is claimed at 7.4 litres per 100km/h. It delivers its power seamlessly and is a real pleasure to drive.

At 190mm the ground clearance is higher than average for a crossover vehicle (higher even than the 172mm Tucson) This doesn’t translate into an overly top-heavy feel around corners and the handling is reasonably neat and nippy.

The electric power steering makes light work of taking tight corners but on straighter roads it’s not too good at self-centering, and the driver has to make small corrections to keep the vehicle in a straight line. Not a major issue, but it could become an annoyance particularly on long trips.

Models and Pricing:
1.6 petrol Executive manual – R319 900
1.6 petrol Executive auto – R339 900
1.6 turbodiesel Executive auto – R369 900
Prices include a five-year/150 000km warranty and five-year/90 000km service plan.

Verdict:
The Creta is a great alternative in this market section to consider, it might however have a cheap feel to some if you also take the high price into consideration. My personal choice(s) however will be between the Mazda CX-3 (Solid and very reliable option) or the Opel Mokka X (Solid feel with impressive performance and fuel consumption)

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