Hyundai Creta E vs. EX: A Detailed Comparison of Base and Second Base Variants

Considering a new Hyundai Creta? Understanding the differences between its entry-level variants, the Creta E and Creta EX, can help you make an informed choice. This guide provides a direct comparison of features, pricing, and specifications for these popular SUV models.

Price Overview: Creta E vs. EX

The Hyundai Creta E, the base model, starts at an ex-showroom price of ₹1,11,000. The Creta EX, which is the second base model, is priced at ₹1,32,000 ex-showroom. This results in an approximate ex-showroom price difference of ₹1,21,000 between the two variants.

For on-road pricing in Lucknow, the Creta E petrol variant costs around ₹13,44,000. The Creta EX petrol variant’s on-road price is approximately ₹14,85,000. Therefore, the on-road price difference between the EX and E variants is roughly ₹1,41,000.

Exterior Features Comparison

When comparing the exterior, some elements are shared, while others show clear distinctions.

Front Profile

Both the Creta E and Creta EX share similar front profiles. You will find the Hyundai logo, a black grille, DRLs (Daytime Running Lights), and projector headlamps on both variants. The keys provided for both models are also identical. Overall, there are no visible differences in the front design.

Side Profile

From the side, both variants are equipped with 16-inch steel wheels on all four tires and disc brakes. Fender indicators are also present on both. The door handles on both the E and EX variants are body-colored.

A key difference lies in the side mirrors (ORVMs). The Creta E comes with manually adjustable and foldable ORVMs, requiring manual adjustment from inside. The EX variant, however, features electrically adjustable ORVMs, offering more convenience. Additionally, the Creta E has a power antenna, while the Creta EX is equipped with a modern shark fin antenna. The A-pillar of the Creta E features a glossy black finish, while the Creta EX has a body-colored A-pillar.

Rear Profile

At the rear, both the Creta E and Creta EX showcase connected LED taillights, which are a standard feature. Neither variant includes a rear wiper, defogger, or a reverse camera. Both have Creta badging, a dual-tone rear bumper, a reverse light, and four reverse parking sensors. A spoiler is also present on both models.

Regarding cargo space, both variants offer a similar boot. They feature 60-40 split rear seats but do not come with a parcel tray. The spare tire is located in the same position beneath the boot floor in both variants. The shark fin antenna on the EX is a visual distinction at the rear compared to the power antenna of the E model.

Interior Comfort and Features

Stepping inside, both the second and front rows offer comfort, but the EX variant adds more convenience features.

Second Row Comfort

In the second row, both the Creta E and Creta EX provide fabric seats, an armrest with two cup holders, and adjustable headrests for rear passengers. The 60-40 split-folding seats are available in both. Rear AC vents and a USB charging port are also standard for rear passengers in both variants. Both models feature a roof light in the second row.

The main difference in the second row is the presence of speakers. The Creta E does not come with an audio system or speakers from the factory. The Creta EX, however, includes speakers in the doors as part of its audio system.

Front Cabin Features

The front cabin of both the Creta E and EX features a dual-tone door trim. Both variants include controls for all four power windows, central lock/unlock buttons, and bottle holders in the doors. The fabric seats in both models offer height adjustment for the driver. Other shared features include a bonnet release lever, traction control, idle start-stop button, and headlamp adjuster switch. The key for both variants is a flip remote with central locking.

Both variants have a fully digital instrument cluster. The steering wheel in both is tilt and telescopic adjustable. However, the Creta E’s steering wheel is empty on the left side, as it lacks an audio system. In contrast, the Creta EX’s steering wheel features mounted controls for telephony and infotainment, thanks to its included touchscreen system.

The Creta E comes with a manual AC system, a 12V charging outlet, and a Type-C USB port. These are similar in the EX variant. Both models have a six-speed manual transmission, an armrest with storage, and a standard glove box. A manual IRVM (Inside Rear View Mirror) is also found in both. On the sun visors, both variants offer a vanity mirror for the passenger and a ticket holder for the driver.

Key Differences in the Front Cabin:

• ORVM Adjustment: The Creta E has manually adjustable ORVMs, while the Creta EX offers electrically adjustable ORVMs.
• Infotainment System: The Creta E does not include an audio system. The Creta EX comes with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, supporting wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
• Overhead Console: The Creta E has an empty overhead console. The Creta EX includes a sunglass holder, a front roof light, and control buttons.
• Speakers: The Creta E does not have factory-fitted speakers. The Creta EX has speakers installed in all four doors.

Engine and Performance

Both Hyundai Creta E and EX variants come with similar engine options.

Petrol Engine

The petrol engine offered is a 1.5-liter, four-cylinder MPi unit. This engine produces approximately 113 BHP of power and 143 Nm of torque.

Diesel Engine

While specific power figures for the diesel variant were not detailed, it offers 250 Nm of torque. Switching from a petrol to a diesel variant will incur an additional cost of about ₹1,60,000 to ₹1,80,000.

Safety Features

Hyundai prioritizes safety, and both the Creta E and Creta EX come equipped with a range of standard safety features. These include traction control, TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System), ABS with EBD (Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), and six airbags.

Conclusion

The Hyundai Creta EX variant offers significant upgrades over the base Creta E, primarily in convenience and technology features. For the additional on-road cost of approximately ₹1,41,000, the EX provides a touchscreen infotainment system, steering-mounted controls, speakers in all doors, electrically adjustable ORVMs, and a shark fin antenna. These additions enhance the driving experience and connectivity for users.