All-New Hyundai Creta SUV Launched In Malaysia
Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) has introduced the Hyundai Creta in Malaysia as another choice in the highly competitive B-segment SUV class. Featuring Hyundai’s contemporary Sensuous Sportiness design, convenient connectivity, and an extensive active safety suit, the Creta is available in the sole Plus variant.
The Hyundai Creta is noticeably larger than the other Hyundai SUV in the B-segment – the Kona, especially in overall length (4,315 mm) and height (1,630 mm), though the Creta is slightly narrower (1,790 mm). Even the Creta’s wheelbase is 10 mm longer at 2,610 mm. Boot space is 416 litres, expanding to 1,384 with the rear seats folded. Wheels are 17″ in size, with a full sized spare in the boot (steel).
Similar to the Hyundai Tucson, the Creta also wears a Parametric Jewel face with LED daytime running lights that are concealed within the grille. At night, they combine with the bumper-mounted LED projector headlamps for an unmistakable visual signature.
In the cabin, the driver gets a 10.25″ full colour LCD supervision cluster for all driving information accessible via steering mounted controls. The infotainment touchscreen is an 8″ unit that features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and comes with voice recognition, 4 speakers and 2 tweeters. Key highlights include single zone climate control (with rear air vents), electric parking brake with auto hold, keyless entry, push button start, remote start function, 2 12V power outlets and 3 USB ports (1 for connectivity).
The seat upholstery is fabric but there is leather on the steering wheel and gear knob for the driver’s enjoyment. The driver also has 4 Drive mode choices i.e. Eco, Normal, Sport and Smart.
The Hyundai Creta is powered by a Smartstream G 1.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine that offers 115 PS @ 6,300 rpm and 144 Nm of torque @ 4,500 rpm. The engine is paired to a Smartstream Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT).
“The Hyundai Creta targets those who desire individuality, who wish to stand out and break free from the norm. Its Sensuous Sportiness design language endows it with unmistakable presence and style. At the same time, it is equipped with all the technology and convenience features to perfectly complement active daily lifestyles,” said Sime Darby Motors Managing Director of Retail and Distribution for Malaysia Mr Jeffrey Gan.
“We are very excited to be launching the Creta, another Hyundai that is truly Geared for Distinction in the Malaysian market. The SUV market is showing no signs of slowing, both globally and in Malaysia, and the Creta’s introduction gives Malaysians more choice in the form of a compact SUV that’s fully in tune with the times,” said HSDM Managing Director Mr Low Yuan Lung.
The Creta is fitted with a comprehensive suite of Hyundai SmartSense active safety features which includes Forward and Blind Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Leading Vehicle Departure Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Safe Exit Warning and High Beam Assist. These contribute to its full 5-star New Car Assessment Programme for Southeast Asian Countries (ASEAN NCAP) safety rating. It is also equipped with 6 airbags, Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Hill-Start Assist Control, power child lock and Parking Assist System.
Driving Impressions
We were offered a go with the Creta in the vicinity of Sime Darby Motors City in Ara Damansara. Though the drive wasn’t an extensive one, it offered a mix of congested slow stretches, roundabout traffic and fairly clear straight roads. These would be the usual situations most urban folk find themselves in, with the exception of standstill traffic which we are thankful for not needing to test in.
Overall, the Creta offered a fairly steady ride. The front MacPherson struts and rear Coupled Torsion Beam Axle suspension set-up did a relatively competent job of dealing with the fantastic road surfaces of the Klang Valley. It is not plush but it did well to cushion most of the imperfections. My ride was a little bumpy on certain sections which I suspect is due to the tyre pressure (we had no time to check on this unfortunately). Tyre noise is also more apparent than engine noise, except under very aggressive acceleration.
Acceleration from standstill at the traffic lights was no issue although when compared to its natural segment rivals (in price), the Creta has the smallest engine capacity. However, the transmission upshifted and downshifted according to what my driving required in quite a smooth manner and hardly missed a beat. There is also the option of switching gears via the paddle shifters or the gear lever. Hyundai claims the Creta can do 0 to 100 km/h in 12 seconds, which is within expectations. The brakes too had a very predictable bite which gave confidence for late braking into corners. The Creta is fitted with ventilated discs front and back (15″ and 14″ respectively).
The impression from this brief test drive is that the Creta is a capable piece of engineering which would attract some fans, particularly those looking for a smaller capacity and naturally aspirated engine which is relatively more frugal to run. Though speed officially tops out at 170 km/h, those who need to run it on highways and typically stick to speed limits will not have much to complain about either. Overall, it presents another B-segment choice to the market.
