New Hyundai Creta Base Variant Spied With Diesel Engine Ahead of 2027 Launch
Hyundai is preparing the next-generation Hyundai Creta for the Indian market, and a new test mule has now been spotted testing in Manali. The latest prototype appears to be a lower-spec variant because it uses steel wheels with wheel covers and 205/65 R16 tyres.
The test mule also appears to use a diesel engine, confirming that Hyundai continues to test diesel versions of the upcoming SUV. The new Creta will move to Hyundai Motor Group’s K3 platform and will get larger dimensions, a new design and major technology upgrades.
Hyundai is expected to launch the next-generation Creta in India in 2027.
Hyundai Creta: Design
The next-generation Hyundai Creta will get a more angular and boxy design compared with the current model. The latest test mule features steel wheels with covers, suggesting a base or lower-spec variant. The SUV gets 205/65 R16 tyres on the spotted version.
Earlier test vehicles have indicated a larger overall footprint. The new Creta is expected to feature an upright front fascia, a new grille, LED projector headlamps and H-shaped LED DRLs mounted higher on the front.
The side profile could feature flush door handles, circular wheel arches and sharper window lines. At the rear, Hyundai is expected to add new tail lamps, a roof spoiler, a chunky bumper and a flatter tailgate design.
Hyundai Creta: Powertrain
The new Hyundai Creta will continue with multiple petrol and diesel engine options. The current 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine produces 115hp, while the 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine develops 160hp. The existing 1.5-litre diesel engine produces 116hp.
Hyundai is expected to carry these powertrains into the next generation, with their respective manual and automatic gearbox options. The biggest mechanical addition will be a new strong-hybrid powertrain.
For India, the hybrid setup is expected to use the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with electric motors and a battery pack. Hybrid versions could also offer regenerative braking and vehicle-to-load functionality.
Hyundai Creta: Cabin
The new Hyundai Creta will receive a major cabin and technology overhaul. One of the biggest additions will be Hyundai’s Pleos Connect infotainment system. The system will move several functions to the central touchscreen and use a slim display in front of the driver for essential information such as speed and fuel level.
The new Creta will also follow a Software Defined Vehicle architecture, allowing Hyundai to introduce selected software improvements through over-the-air updates.
Higher variants are expected to get premium features such as powered and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, wireless charging and Level 2 ADAS. The cabin should also offer more space because of the SUV’s larger dimensions.
Hyundai Creta: Price and Rivals
Hyundai has not announced the price of the next-generation Creta yet. The current Creta starts at around Rs. 11 lakh in India. The new model could command a premium because of its larger size, upgraded technology and hybrid powertrain. It will rival the Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, Tata Sierra and Honda Elevate.
