Hyundai Creta IVT: 6000 km Review – The Good, The Bad, and The Fuel Economy
As I settled into the driver’s seat of the Hyundai Creta, memories of my first encounter with this SUV rushed back. It’s become somewhat of a household name in India, celebrated for its stylish aesthetics and balanced performance. With the 2023 model now sporting an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), it was time to see if it lives up to the overwhelming buzz, especially after clocking a solid 6000 kilometers.
The Good Bits
First things first: let’s talk aesthetics. Hyundai has always been known for its striking designs, and the Creta is no exception. The bold front grille, sleek LED headlights, and sculpted body give it a road presence that’s hard to ignore. Whether you’re navigating through chaotic city streets or cruising on the highway, it demands attention.
Step inside, and you’re embraced by a cabin that feels premium, a quality often reserved for luxury segments. The dashboard layout is user-friendly, with an intuitive touchscreen infotainment system offering features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The sound quality from the speakers is impressive, ensuring your road trips are as entertaining as they are comfortable.
One of the standout features, especially when diving into this IVT model, is the smoothness of the drive. With the continuous variable transmission, the Creta accelerates without those hallmark jerks that remind you you’re in a vehicle with a traditional gearbox. It’s particularly pleasant when navigating stop-and-go traffic, a common scenario in Indian metro life.
Performance and Comfort
Hyundai’s 1.5-litre petrol engine produces 113 bhp, which may not seem like a powerhouse, but trust me, it’s more than sufficient for daily commutes and occasional highway jaunts. The IVT enhances responsiveness, especially during overtakes, lending a reassuring edge when you’re picking up speed.
Comfort is another area where the Creta shines. The seats are well-cushioned, providing ample support during long drives. My family and I took a weekend trip to Lonavala, and everyone agreed that even after hours on the road, fatigue was minimal. There’s generous space both at the front and rear, ensuring that passengers don’t feel cramped.
The Bad Bits
While the Creta dazzles in many areas, it’s not without its flaws. The biggest concern that surfaced during my 6000 km ride was the soft suspension setup. While it absorbs bumps nicely on well-paved roads, that softness can translate into a bouncy experience on uneven surfaces. If you’re planning to tackle rougher terrains or pothole-riddled city streets, you might feel a tad unsettled.
Fuel economy brings up another critical point. The Creta IVT claims a figure of around 18 km/l, which is competitive, especially for a petrol engine. However, in real-world conditions, my figures hovered around the 13-15 km/l range. This is still reasonable but not groundbreaking for those conscious about running costs. If you often drive in congested areas or have a heavy right foot, be prepared for lower averages.
Buyer Advice
If you’re eyeing the Hyundai Creta, it’s crucial to assess your needs. For city dwellers seeking comfort, style, and a feature-packed cabin, this SUV is a fantastic choice. However, if weekend adventures on rugged roads are part of your lifestyle, you might want to consider the suspension dynamics.
The pricing of the IVT variant sits around ₹15-17 lakh, which can be a stretch for many. However, given the features, comfortable driving experience, and brand reliability, it can be seen as a worthy investment. Ensure you test drive multiple variants; sometimes, the diesel or manual might fit better into your riding preferences.
Real-World Comparisons
In terms of competitors, we’ve got the Kia Seltos, MG Astor, and even the Skoda Kushaq vying for attention in the same segment. While all offer something unique, the Creta stands out for its design and comfort, albeit at the expense of sporty handling compared to the Kushaq. The Seltos offers a similar experience but might feel a bit more dynamic in terms of driving feel.
Conclusion
After 6000 kilometers, my experience with the Hyundai Creta IVT has been a mix of admiration and contemplation. It’s certainly an SUV that delivers on many fronts, especially for an average Indian family. The comfort, design, and tech features make it a formidable player in the compact SUV segment.
However, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons against your preferences and needs. In a market saturated with choices, the Creta’s appeal lies in its balance between style and functionality. Whether you choose it or one of its rivals, ensure it aligns with your driving passion, daily demands, and lifestyle. Happy driving!
Utsav is an automobile enthusiast and auto news writer with 2+ years of experience in the Indian car industry. He has covered major launches, done detailed car reviews, and follows trends in the EV segment.