The Hyundai Creta range has received another mid-life update, now boasting new Matte Edition derivatives, advanced safety features, and slight price reductions on selected models.
The standout addition to the Creta lineup is the introduction of optional matte exterior paint finishes, a first for the range. Buyers can choose between Midnight Black Matte, Magnetic Silver Matte, and Optic White Matte.
This option is available for both the Premium and Executive specifications, elevating the Creta’s aesthetic appeal. Note that these matt finishes require extra care and that buyers must sign an agreement stating that they will follow the manufacturer’s care guidelines. If this puts you off, or you will be parking your matte Creta under a tree, rather choose a regular colour!
Fancy finishes
The Matte Edition versions also feature distinctive design enhancements, including high gloss black finishes on the A and C pillars, door handles, and side mirrors. Unique 17-inch glossy black rims and matte black front and rear skid plates further distinguish these versions.
For 2024, six standard body colours – Magnetic Silver, Optic White, Titan Grey Metallic, Midnight Black Pearl, Dragon Red Pearl, and Galaxy Blue Pearl – remain available, complementing the new matte options.
Enhanced safety features
Safety upgrades take centre stage in the Executive derivatives, which now include Hyundai’s Smart Sense package. Features such as Lane Departure Warning, Lane Follow Assist, Driver Fatigue Detection, Forward Collision Avoidance, Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert ensure heightened driver and passenger safety.
Additionally, front and side airbags, along with curtain airbags for rear passengers, are standard on the Executive model, while the Premium derivatives have to make do with only two airbags. The Premium versions do retain safety elements like ISOFIX child seat anchors and Electronic Stability Control (ESC).
Comfort and convenience refined
Inside, the Creta retains its clean, spacious design, with (artificial) leather seat coverings now also included in the Premium spec. Added convenience for rear passengers include a foldable centre armrest with cup holders. Both Matte Edition models feature smart key entry and button-start control.
The Executive derivatives go further with wireless phone charging, and extra speakers for an enhanced audio experience. Rear passengers also benefit from additional USB charging ports and air vents integrated into the console.
Proven powertrain and transmission
The Creta continues with its fuel-efficient 1,5-litre naturally aspirated (no turbo) petrol engine, delivering 84 kW and 144 Nm of torque. This engine pairs with either a 6-speed manual gearbox in the Premium derivatives or an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) in the Premium and Executive models.
The Creta’s ride remains comfortable yet firm, thanks to a McPherson strut front suspension and a coupled torsion beam axle at the rear. With a useful ground clearance of 200 mm, it confidently transitions from tar to gravel, supported by 17-inch alloy rims and 60-profile tyres.
Conclusion
With its stylish new matte finishes and enhanced safety features, the refreshed Hyundai Creta solidifies its place as a popular choice in the medium-sized SUV segment, appealing to buyers who demand both reliability and low running costs.
Pricing
Hyundai has slightly reduced the pricing on three derivatives for the 2024 model year. The Creta range now starts at R449 900 for the 1.5 Premium MT and goes up to R524 900 for the Executive IVT Matte Edition.
| Creta 1.5 Premium MT | R449 900 |
| Creta 1.5 Premium IVT | R479 900 |
| Creta 1.5 Premium IVT (Matte Edition) | R484 900 |
| Creta 1.5 Executive IVT | R519 900 |
| Creta 1.5 Executive IVT (Matte Edition) | R524 900 |
Each Creta comes with a 7-year/200 000 km manufacturer’s warranty, a 4-year/60 000 km service plan, and roadside assistance for 7 years or 150 000 km.
