Hyundai Creta EX Diesel: A Detailed Look at India’s Top-Selling SUV
The Hyundai Creta stands out as a leading SUV in its class. Today, we delve into the second base model, the Hyundai Creta EX Diesel variant, to explore its features and why it remains a popular choice. This review covers everything from its muscular exterior to its comfortable interior and strong performance.
Key Features and Initial Impressions
The Creta EX Diesel offers a comprehensive set of features. It comes with two identical remote central locking keys, allowing you to lock, unlock, and open the boot with ease. Both diesel and petrol engine options are available for the Creta line-up.
This EX Diesel variant is priced at ₹13,91,000 (ex-showroom). The starting price for the Creta range begins at ₹1,11,000 (ex-showroom).
Muscular Exterior Design
From the front, the Hyundai Creta presents a muscular and commanding presence. It features the Hyundai logo in the center of a black front grille. Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) are included, with integrated indicators. Projector headlamps provide clear illumination, though fog lamps are not present in this model. The lower grille is also black, complemented by a skid plate and a tow hook option on the side.
The front also houses the engine and suspension setup, complete with an engine guard. The ground clearance for the Creta is approximately 190 millimeters, which might feel slightly less for some considering its muscular SUV design. Dual wipers are also part of the front profile. While a sunroof is not standard in the EX variant, it is available in the EX Option variant.
Looking at the side, the EX variant features electrically adjustable Outside Rear View Mirrors (ORVMs), a step up from the manually adjustable ones found in the base model. Indicators are placed on the fender. The car rides on 16-inch steel rims, complete with wheel covers. For braking, disc brakes are provided on all four wheels. Apollo tires with a profile of 205/65 R16 are fitted. Black body cladding runs along the side. The A-pillar comes in a glossy black finish, and the B-pillars are black.
At the rear, the Creta boasts connected tail lights and the Hyundai logo. While a reverse parking camera is not included, it can be added as an accessory later. The Creta badging is visible, but there is no specific variant badging. A reverse light is provided, similar to the front. For parking assistance, there are four reverse parking sensors. Reflectors are integrated into the bumper, and the exhaust pipe is located on the right side. This second base model does not include a rear wiper or defogger. However, it does feature a high-mount stop lamp and a shark fin antenna, which is usually missing in base models.
Spacious and Feature-Rich Interior
Stepping inside the Creta EX Diesel, you are greeted by a dual-tone interior. The door trims feature power window controls, a door opener, speakers, and a bottle holder. The seats are upholstered in a grey fabric.
The dashboard includes an 8-9 inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, USB, and Aux connectivity. A digital instrument cluster and six airbags enhance safety and information access. The air conditioning is manual, but rear AC vents are provided for passenger comfort. A Type-C USB port is available in the lower section. Legroom, knee room, and thigh support are generous, ensuring comfortable seating. The rear seats feature two adjustable headrests and three-point seatbelts. An armrest with storage and ISOFIX child seat mounts are also included. The roof light is yellow, and grab handles are present for all passengers. Headroom in the Creta is ample.
The boot space measures 433 liters, offering sufficient room for luggage. While a parcel tray is not included, it can be installed later. The rear seats offer a 60-40 split function, increasing cargo versatility. A spare wheel, a 16-inch steel rim of the same size as the others, is located beneath the boot floor, along with a jack and other necessary tools.
For the driver, the EX variant includes height adjustment and recline for the fabric seats. A fuel opener lever, a dead pedal, and a hood release lever are on the floor. Controls for traction control, idle start/stop, and headlamp level adjustment are conveniently placed. The steering wheel features the Hyundai logo, MID controls, and telephonic/infotainment controls. It offers both tilt and telescopic adjustment for personalized driving comfort. Headlamps and wipers are manual in this variant. The center console houses the manual AC controls for fan speed, temperature, and airflow adjustment. Below, there’s a 12-volt charging outlet and both Type-A and Type-C USB ports. The car comes with a six-speed manual transmission and two cup holders. An armrest with storage further enhances convenience. The glovebox offers additional storage. The rearview mirror (IRVM) is manually adjustable, and a sunglass holder is also provided. The passenger side has a vanity mirror, while the driver’s side features a ticket holder. Seatbelts are height-adjustable.
Powerful Performance and Fuel Efficiency
The Hyundai Creta offers both diesel and petrol engine options. The EX Diesel variant is powered by a 1.5-liter CRDi diesel engine, which delivers 114 BHP of power and 250 Nm of torque. This engine is known for its impressive fuel efficiency, offering a mileage of 20-21 kilometers per liter. For those considering the petrol option, a 1.5-liter petrol engine is available, producing 113-114 BHP of power and 143 Nm of torque. The petrol variant provides a mileage of up to 17 kilometers per liter. This diesel variant also requires DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid or AdBlue).
Comprehensive Safety Features
Safety is a priority in the Hyundai Creta EX Diesel. It comes equipped with:
- ABS with EBD (Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
- Six airbags (driver, passenger, side seats, and curtain airbags in pillars)
- Reverse parking sensors
- Speed system
- Seat belt warning
- Engine immobilizer
- Crash sensor
- Traction control
- ESP (Electronic Stability Program)
Pricing and Ownership
The Hyundai Creta EX Diesel variant has an ex-showroom price of ₹13,91,000. In Lucknow, the on-road price for this variant is approximately ₹16,70,000. Comparing it to the second base model petrol variant, which has an ex-showroom price of ₹13,20,000 and an on-road price in Lucknow of approximately ₹14,85,000, there is a difference of about ₹1,80,000 to ₹1,82,000 between the petrol and diesel variants. For financing, if you make a down payment of ₹7,00,000 and finance ₹10,00,000, your EMI would be around ₹20,000 for a period of 5 years. The Creta comes with a standard warranty of 3 years or unlimited kilometers, which can be extended for an additional charge. The fuel tank capacity is approximately 50 liters. The car is available in various colors including White and Black (both top-selling), Khaki, and Grey.
Conclusion
The Hyundai Creta EX Diesel variant offers a compelling package of features, comfort, performance, and safety, making it a strong contender in the SUV market. Its status as a top-selling SUV in India is well-deserved, offering excellent value for its price.
