Hyundai Creta

There is a common notion that small, petrol-powered cars and EVs are ideal for urban driving whereas diesel-powered SUVs are for those who cover long distances often. And after four months and over 6,000km in our diesel Hyundai Creta, I think I believe in the notion.

Much like the constant rains and the barrage of roadwork along the way, the Creta has been a faithful companion to my commute over these last four months. When I first took delivery, it had covered nearly 2,000km and since then, I have spent the majority of my time with the Creta, crawling in Mumbai traffic, barely exceeding 60kmph or so. You can read about how we have gotten along by clicking

The Good Bits

I finally got to take our Creta on its first road trip. It was in the middle of September and our destination was Baramati, in heavy rains. Thankfully, the Creta felt as solid as a rock. No amount of standing water or wind could knock it off course – something my mother, who invariably develops a nervous tic in such traveling conditions, was glad for. Big patches of standing water on NH65 between Mumbai and Baramati were no problem for the Creta.

This one trip out of the city allowed our Creta to finally stretch its legs. I have said it earlier and I will say it again. The 1.5-litre, turbo diesel engine and the six-speed manual are amongst the nicest powertrain options that one can experience for less than Rs. 25 lakh. It is quiet and refined for around 95 per cent of the time. On the highway, there is barely any diesel growl that filters into the cabin even if you go hard on the throttle. There is some clatter to be heard and felt as you accelerate through the first couple of gears although most of it melts away as you up the pace and the strong 1.5-litre turbo diesel engine settles down to a surprisingly quiet and efficient cruise.

At this point, I am convinced that I have thoroughly tested the Creta under many, many scenarios – short of driving it across Leh/Ladakh – and I am happy to report that it has proved to be an extremely impressive crossover. Also, the fact that I can drive it in the city for around 1,000km (a lot more on the highway) between visits to the fuel station, is admirable.

Product Details

• Make and Model: Hyundai Creta
• Version: SX (O) Diesel Manual
• Distance covered this month: 1,549km
• Fuel Efficiency: 18.1kmpl