I have travelled in the car but never drove one. So when I got the chance to drive the 2024 Hyundai Creta Facelift 1.5L Turbo Petrol SX(O) DCT, I seized the opportunity.

BHPian vigsom recently shared this with other enthusiasts:

Introduction

Presented here is a short experience on my first experience as a driver in any Hyundai Creta. Some observations here would provide additional perspectives to prospective buyers, while some points would just reinforce what's been already covered through the official review.

How I eventually got to drive a Hyundai Creta

I've travelled in two Hyundai Cretas till date - both 2023 diesel MTs, both in the rear seat, over distances between 200 and 300km. Awesome FE and reasonably good comfort in the rear seat, but never had a chance to drive one.

I had a chance to test drive a 2024 facelift in the 1.5L Turbo Petrol avatar and seized the opportunity. This was a 1.5L Turbo Petrol SX(O) DCT in the same black shade that was featured in the official review.

Intial observations

While following the Creta to my "test drive" point, I noted some nice things:

• Simple, neat, tail lamp cluster with an LED bar connecting the left and the right lamps; looked very neat when the brakes were deployed
• The Turbo monogram finished in red over a brushed aluminium base looked class, especially on a black exterior
• Sequential turn indicators - simple, yet classy and effective

After we stopped off, I got to see the car a little more; the rear seat was familiar - I noticed no difference between the seat in the 2024 edition vs the 2023 one. Some more observations in pictures:

Rear of the facelift Creta with brakes deployed (image from the official review)

Rear view (image from the official review)

View of the road ahead from the driver seat

View of the dashboard from the driver seat - looked neat except for the glossy black finish which is forensic science-friendly. Also, note the angled center console like the 2004 Elantra or any Volvo

Bright and clear 360 view

View from the rear seat - note the premium-looking gear lever

Wheels - strange to see a JK tyre being offered as OE fitment

Bose audio - sounded very good but a bit boomy like a typical American car

View of the driver footwell and the controls above (engine start-stop button, idling start-stop system, traction control, parking sensors and the headlamp leveller)

Engine bay

The engine bay was well laid out except for a lot of jhamela (cramping) around the turbo between the engine and the firewall.

Hood liner - noise insulation is quite good, though not best in class

Engine bay, which at first look seems uncluttered

The right side of the engine bay - note the radiator cap on the coolant tank like the Nissan Magnite

ECU rests right behind the battery - protected and cocooned. ABS Unit rests behind the ECU

Good working room around the front and the right side in the engine bay

But it gets quite cramped behind the engine bay - too many couplers and components eg. throttle body, turbocharger and associated components

Close up of the turbo

Continue reading vigsom's experience for BHPian comments, insights and more information.

The Creta Knight Edition is available in two variants: S(O) and SX(O).

The Hyundai Creta Knight Edition has been launched just in time for the festive season. The SUV is available in petrol and diesel versions, with prices starting at Rs 14,50,800 (ex-showroom).

The Creta Knight Edition features more than 21 changes compared to the standard Creta. It comes in an all-black colour scheme with a black grille with Matte Black logos and black 17-inch alloy wheels with red brake calipers. Other exterior details include black front and rear skid plates, side sill garnish, roof rails, C-pillar garnish and ORVMs and spoiler painted in black.

The all-black theme continues inside. The Knight Edition gets black leather upholstery with Brass stitching, metal pedals, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and brass inserts.

The Creta Knight Edition is available in two variants: S(O) and SX(O). The 1.5-litre petrol version is offered with either a 6-speed manual or IVT, while the 1.5-litre diesel gets a 6-speed automatic option besides the 6-speed manual gearbox.

The Creta Knight Edition is also available in the Titan Grey Matte exterior colour, which costs Rs 5,000 more, while a dual-tone exterior is a Rs 15,000 option.

Hyundai Creta Knight Edition ex-showroom prices:

1.5L Petrol

• S(O) MT – Rs 14,50,800
• S(O) IVT – Rs 16,00,800
• SX(O) MT – Rs 17,42,200
• SX(O) IVT – Rs 18,88,200

1.5L Diesel

• S(O) MT – Rs 16,08,100
• S(O) IVT – Rs 17,58,100
• SX(O) MT – Rs 18,99,600
• SX(O) IVT – Rs 20,14,800

Hyundai has sold over 10 lakh units of the Creta since it was launched in 2015.

Hyundai has sold over 1 lakh units of the 2024 Creta in India. The milestone was achieved in merely 6 months. 

The latest iteration of the Hyundai Creta was launched in January this year. The SUV is available in seven trims. The sporty N Line version of the Creta is also available in India.

The Creta facelift is available with three engine options, including a 1.5-litre petrol engine that makes 113 BHP and 144 Nm, paired with a 6-speed manual or CVT; a 1.5-litre diesel that puts out 114 BHP and 250 Nm, offered with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic and a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol that produces 158 BHP and 253 Nm, that is available with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic.

The Creta N Line is powered by a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine, producing 158 BHP and 253 Nm. The engine is paired with a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with paddle shifters. 

The Creta was first launched in 2015. Since then, Hyundai has sold over 10 lakh units of this compact SUV.

I was driving the Hyundai at around 40-50 km/h and knew that we wouldn't collide with the van.

BHPian tornado82 recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Got a chance to experience the proper FCCA mechanism yesterday.

Though it was turned on for the last 2 months since I got the car, as my usual daily drive is in Bangalore city traffic, it never came into effect. Got the 'Collision Detected' warning a couple of times, but then the speed was very low and I used to apply brakes that time, and it went away like that.

Yesterday, I was driving through Hosur Road (the long straight stretch close to the Hosa road signal), it was medium traffic as it was a Sunday. My speed was around 40/50kmph, suddenly a courier van cut across from the left side and came to my front, and it kept moving.

Got the collision detected warning in MID, but I didn't bother to apply the brakes/take my foot off the A pedal since I knew it wouldn't collide (based on my speed and the van's speed). But ADAS applied the emergency brakes with 'krrrr' sounds. It didn't come to an instant complete halt, but reduced my speed to maybe 5-10kmph or below and then I applied the brakes and stopped. Everyone in the car got scared and thought that our car hit something. Luckily there was no vehicle behind me, so nothing untoward happened.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

The Creta facelift now commands a waiting period of up to 6 months.

Hyundai claims to have received over 1 lakh bookings for the Creta facelift since its launch. The SUV now commands a waiting period of up to 6 months, as the carmaker currently has an order backlog of over 45,000 units.

The updated Creta was launched in January this year. The SUV is available in seven trims and according to Hyundai, variants equipped with a sunroof and connected car features account for 71% and 52% of the total bookings, respectively.

The Creta facelift is available with three engine options, including a 1.5-litre petrol engine that makes 113 BHP and 144 Nm, paired with a 6-speed manual or CVT; a 1.5-litre diesel that puts out 114 BHP and 250 Nm, offered with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic and a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol that produces 158 BHP and 253 Nm, that is available with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic.

Prices of select petrol variants of the Creta have been increased by Rs 3,500.

The Hyundai Creta facelift has received its first price hike. Prices have been increased by up to Rs 10,800.

The updated Creta was launched in January this year at a starting price of Rs 10,99,900 (ex-showroom). This month, Hyundai has increased the prices of select petrol variants by Rs 3,500. Prices of the E MT, SX (O) Turbo DCT and SX (O) Turbo DCT Dual Tone variants remain unchanged.

Except for the SX (O) AT and SX (O) AT Dual Tone trims, prices of all diesel variants have gone up by Rs 10,800.

The Creta facelift is available with three engine options, including a 1.5-litre petrol engine that makes 113 BHP and 144 Nm, paired with a 6-speed manual or CVT; a 1.5-litre diesel that puts out 114 BHP and 250 Nm, offered with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic and a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol that produces 158 BHP and 253 Nm, that is available with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic.

The Hyundai Creta competes with the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Kia Seltos, Skoda Kushaq, VW Taigun and the MG Astor.

It had been about 9 years since we got our used Hyundai Fluidic Verna 1.6 CRDI - had got it in very good condition with 15K on the ODO, about 2.5 years old. It has served us well with 1.2 Lakh on ODO.

BHPian ridersam recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

2024 Hyundai Creta Facelift – Buying experience and Initial impressions….

It had been about 9 years since we got our used Hyundai Fluidic Verna 1.6 CRDI - had got it in very good condition with 15K on the ODO, about 2.5 years old. It has served us well with 1.2 Lakh on ODO through the daily short grind on the busy streets Bombay and the frequent Bombay-Pune runs on the expressway (back when it wasn’t as busy and more fun to drive, especially in the rains, but that is a rant for another time....)

Though the engine was still going strong, the body and suspension were beginning to show the age and the kilometers that it had under the belt, and in comparison to the current generation of cars, the kit and safety features were dated... Still looked good though - some pictures of an old girl.

The initial idea was to get the old car sold off to try to get better value before the year turned - started the process in Q3 23, finally getting it completed around Feb 24.It was now time to look for a new ride in earnest. With previous positive experience with a pre-owned car and the value it brings, the first choice was to get a pre-owned car with low mileage and a good maintenance record. The requirements I could come up with

• Sedan or SUV, something that would be equal or an upgrade to the Verna
• Manual - do like to DRIVE my cars (dropping a gear sometimes on the open roads ......heaven..l
• Current in terms of kit and safety feature
• Good mix of comfort and performance
• Quick delivery timeline

Had been trying a few pre-owned ones, all this time, following the T-BHP used car buying guide

• Gen 2 Creta: Had too many fix-ups and visible underbody issues which pointed to it being in a few scrapes, good drive though
• Pre-facelift Seltos: Though seemed good mechanically, wasn’t as good as the Creta in terms of drive and kit
• Enquired on a few others: Lots of niggles and too many compromises

Some observations with the pre-owned market

• Majority of cars seemed to have ODO manipulations - even my car which I sold off had the ODO turned back
• Re-badging - again my car was listed as a SPEC higher
• Cars being marketed as younger - ditto with my car
• You are never sure about the accident history

You expect these tactics from the Not-Really-Friendly neighborhood dealers, but it seems to be a somewhat similar story with the organized sector...it would always be a better option if you get a car from a reliable individual than a dealer, as was the case with my previous car. These challenges, and not having a lot of good options made looking at new car options also a necessity. Here are some of the contenders... (all based on personal biases...so please...gentle with the brickbats...)

The New Verna Facelift

Good:

• Good drive, Hyundai seems to have sorted some of the floating suspension issues at high speed which plagued the earlier version
• The KIT is good with ADAS2, 6 Airbags, GNCAP rating, FE number
• The version I was looking at was the Manual Turbo SXO which came with a black interior that looked good (I not sure how it will fare in the hot weather)
• The family liked the ride - the suspension seems to be tuned to comfort, the look, and the space in the back
• Hyundai's reliability and breadth of service network pan India
• The dealers generally mentioned 3–4-week delivery periods

Not as Good:

• The GC is still a concern though Hyundai has made significant updates, was always a sharp pain in the head to scrape over the over-zealous speed breakers even with 4 passengers sometime
• No rear disc brakes even in manual top spec
• The polarizing looks - the back end is excellent, but the front has mixed opinions, and the symmetrical steering wheel...
• Did not get to drive the manual in TD (apparently Hyundai has not made a lot available), and the salesperson was not able to demo the ADAS features

Honda Elevate

Good and Not as Good:

• Great on the looks, Honda has nailed the strong front end, and the interior brown leather is very classy
• Honda reliability
• Decent drive, but the clutch and transmission could be more refined
• Decent KIT, space seemed a little on the cramped side when compared to competitors, and the suspension a little on the stiffer side
• ADAS features offered seemed to be not as refined as on others, turn assist camera views only on one side and does not get activated unless you give the full turn indicator (not on the partial touch), camera-based driver-assist features only, and no radar

Honda City

Good:

• A known reliable entrant with all the right things, and a car that would probably serve me well into the next decade

Not so Good

• KNOWN reliable entrant with not too many changes since some time
• Not a fan of the front end of the last facelift

Kia Seltos

Good:

• Good drive and better KIT than others in the segment, essentially introduced features have been moved over to the Hyundai cousins
• Great looks, exterior and interior, especially the facelift, great looking center console
• All One-touch window

Not so Good:

• No ADAS in the manual version, you need to go for the Automatic
• Higher cost for CVT G and X line versions to get ADAS features
• Not as an extensive service network

VW Virtus and Tiagun

Good

• Classical looks, European classic build quality
• 5 start GNCAP ratings and segment-leading GC
• Discounts available from dealers on ex-showroom

Not so Good:

• No ADAS and other features as compared to others in the segment at similar price-pointed
• Though had heard great reviews on Drive (and even the sales person, the 1.0 L version, that I got to TD, did not seem as exciting, especially compared to the older and new Verna
• The sales folks seemed to be coached to actively push the 1.0 L model as opposed to the 1.5 L liter due to the higher costs
• VW after-sales/service and maintenance stories

Skoda Slavia

Good

• The Skoda stable has always had good-looking cars and the few Salvia I saw on the road were definitely head turners and wanted to try that out
• Copy and paste others from Virtus * since it is the same platform

Not so Good:

• Copy and paste from Virus * since it is essentially the same platform
• Could not get the TD scheduled, due to conflicts
• One thing that should be added to at a personal level for VW and the family is the lack of localization on the wheel assemblies - hate the left-hand turn indicators. For a market as big as India with growth potential, it could be something I would like to seem

New Creta Facelift

Good:

• The facelift was launched very recently, and definitely overcomes the polarizing views of the earlier version
• Test drove the new version AT and it reinforced good driving experiences from the earlier version
• Great KIT, and ADAS2 features seem to be the most refined and well-integrated
• The updated two-tone interiors are very welcoming
• The panoramic sun roof which was a special requirement from my nephew
• The Creta has been on my radar since the first GEN Creta was launched, and I actually was quite fond

Not so Good:

• No GNCAP or BNCAP rating as of now, older Gen did not have a higher rating
• No Turbo option in the Manual
• 2-4 month wait times from the local dealers where I enquired
• The gap in the front grill with an exposed sensor as pointed out in numerous forums

With all the above considerations, it seemed that the new Verna matched most of the requirements, and would be the way forward. This began the process of deal shopping, talking to the dealers close to me.

That is when I got an interesting call - from a dealer I was not leaning towards and whom I had asked earlier about the Creta - he had a car Creta available in the version I was looking for and the color I wanted - would I be interested? At first, I thought it was a ploy to keep me hooked, and there have been stories of delivery dates getting extended going around. Did not think too much about it, and was focused on Plan Verna.

A few days go by and the other dealer calls again about the Creta - if I had made any decision. Had to ask a few probing questions

• Was the car available now/immediately?
• Was it a TD vehicle or had any other issues?
• What month was it manufactured and it wasn’t an older model?
• Any other issues?

Along with the answers, the ask was to get a booking amount paid up and there was a 1–2-week delivery promised. However, given the high demand, it had to close quickly and certain value of dealer insurance and accessories buying were expected, but getting a new car which was high on the list in 2 weeks was an exciting prospect.

Things moved fairly quickly after that

• Paid the booking amount
• Got finances defined
• Had asked for PDI - had to travel to the yard which was a little out of way - but tried to check as per the checklist - Some photos of the PDI

• Paid the remaining amount (tried to negotiate the insurance and accessories, but that was the one negative experience with the dealership)
• Got the extended warranty for 5 years and Sheild of Trust for wear and tear-prone parts the maximum duration (5 years)
• 1 week had already passed by then and asked for a Saturday morning delivery
• Booking was done on March 1st week and was planned for 3rd Week of March which was quite a turn around
• RTO and other processes got done in the meantime

Finally, after what seemed like an agonizingly long few days, the D-day arrived. Reached the dealership at the designated time. The process was fairly standard - with paperwork, puja, delivery ceremony, and demo. Some clicks from the day

Initial impressions...

It has literally been only a few days since the delivery and the ODO still reads ~100 KM with a couple of office and local runs, so the car hasn’t had any time to make a real impression, but some initial thoughts

• Looks - Was already a fan and the facelift has moved opinion more toward positive
• Interiors - The standard dual tone makes the car look spacious and should also help in the Indian summers
• Electronics and infotainment - Hyundai does offer a lot of KIT, yet to explore all the options, but is towards the top in the segment, the Bose system seems quite good, Bluelink seems useful, and the ADAS features, in particular, are very well integrated, especially with wider and taller presence compared to the Verna, the 3d view and Driving assistance do their job quite well, the center console could have been a tad better by Hyundai for the cost on the road
• NVH - Hyundai always had this sorted and this is no different, you are very well insulated from the outside world, but will have to observe this more with some highway runs
• Engine and Performance - The engine does seem smooth and the power delivery is very uniform, however, the manual does seem to miss TURBO and the added power, especially coming from the 1.6 CRDI, it does seem to lack a bit of power, again will have to look at this over a longer period
• Comfort - The front and back seats seem very comfortable, can’t wait to get into some long drives up

TODO - Need to look at PPH coating - have to look at the reviews, cost, and some good options nearby

Some additional pics from the first few days will add a more detailed experience review once the car has a few more kilometers under its belt......

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

The Seltos is a possible contender, but it does not have NA IVT on its top trim

BHPian Col Mehta recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

SX(O) IVT Test Drive Experience:

Engine and Gearbox Performance - Exceptionally smooth, refined, and good to drive. This has always been one of the positives of this engine-gearbox combo. The car is just ever so easy to drive in city traffic conditions. With no lags, no jerks, no drama, and with m-o-r-e than enough power to pot around all day alone, this car excels in urban settings. If you are mostly going to drive within city limits with occasional highway runs and want all the latest bells and whistles, then look no beyond this car.

Steering Response - The steering feels noticeably lighter than the outgoing model that we drive (2021 SXO IVT). It's a welcome change as it does not feel unnecessarily heavy at parking and slow speeds. The steering response on the previous model has vague feedback from the steering. Not always, but it feels like it has its own mind at times. This we did not feel in the FL model. The steering feedback remained consistent and a tad lighter which we liked.

Ride Quality - One word - Plush! Just the right balance really - not too soft, not too stiff either. On slow speeds, it does not get unsettled while going through potholes/uneven surfaces. At higher speeds, it almost glides through everything without making the passengers uncomfortable. All this when the TPMS showed 40+ on all four tyres!

Interiors - Well this is where this car disappoints. While the overall look and feel of the interiors are satisfactory, that ancient-looking HVAC system and the cheap glossy plastic on the centre console (which still makes creaking noise by the way) take away all the premiumness. The AT centre console is amazing to look at (if you overlook that low-grade plastic), but we are very disappointed with Hyundai for not addressing the plastic quality in this FL. Despite having received consumer feedback and ample time to rectify the issue, they chose not to. Another concern for us is the all-grey interior theme which we did not like, particularly on bright sunny days when abundant sunlight enters the cabin, accentuating the blandness. Hyundai should have retained black elements to elevate the ambiance.

Built Quality - The outgoing model is not known for its built quality and feels lighter than the first-gen model (we have both generations within our family). This one, interestingly though, felt better! The doors are heavier, and the overall feel is superior. I hope Hyundai sends it for the crash test and comes back with 5 stars!

So, did we like it to replace our first gen Creta? - Honestly don't know. While we LOVE the 1.5 NA IVT combo, perfectly suited to our needs, and the ride quality and steering response are just how we like them, the underwhelming interior feel is what killing us. Thinking about other options in the segment, there is none like the Creta. The Seltos is a possible contender, but it does not have NA IVT on its top trim plus those so-called "sporty" all-black claustrophobic interiors are a no-go! Perhaps the Xline could be an option with its captivating sage green theme, but then it also comes with its own set of maintenance challenges. Why does it have to be so complex, KIA?

We are keeping our booking for now (yes, we booked it last month), but aren't entirely convinced.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

The Hyundai Creta N Line is available in two trims N8 and N10, with a choice of a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DCT.

Hyundai has announced the launch of the Creta N Line. As you may have guessed, this is the sportier version of the standard Creta. It is available in two trims N8 and N10 with prices starting at Rs 16,82,300 (ex-showroom).

The Creta N Line is based on the recently introduced Creta facelift. The SUV looks sportier than the standard version. It features a different rectangular front grille and bumper with silver inserts, L-shaped LED DRLs and 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels with red brake calipers. It has a sporty bumper at the rear with dual-tip exhaust, a roof spoiler and side skirts with red highlights.

The Creta N Line features a sporty interior with black upholstery and red accents on the dashboard, gear lever and seats. The N Line version also gets a 3-spoke steering wheel, metal pedals and a new gear lever. The SUV is equipped with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a digital instrument cluster. It also gets ventilated front seats, a powered driver’s seat, a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, a wireless charger. a Bose sound system, a 360-degree camera, a dual dash camera, and ADAS.

The Creta N Line is powered by a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine, producing 158 BHP and 253 Nm. The engine is paired with a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with paddle shifters. Hyundai claims it can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 8.9 seconds. The N Line version also gets a stiffer suspension setup for more focused handling characteristics, tweaked steering and a tuned exhaust.

The Creta N Line is available in three monotone and dual-tone colour options - Atlas White, Abyss Black, Titan Grey Matte, Thunder Blue with Abyss Black roof, Atlas White with Abyss Black roof, and Shadow Grey with Abyss Black roof.

Hyundai Creta N Line ex-showroom prices:

• N8 MT - Rs 16,82,300
• N8 DCT - Rs 18,32,300
• N10 MT - Rs 19,34,300
• N10 DCT - Rs 20,29,900

I did not want a turbo-charged engine or DCT gearbox for issues heard on different platform and did not want any complications with engine or gearbox/clutch technologies. Had checked Nexon DCA as their AMT is not good.

BHPian satya_ip recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Booked Creta Facelift S(O) IVT

Reasons to buy a new car:

• Currently, I own Swift (Vxi-2014). It was my first car and it has served me very well to date. I had never driven a car till that time in my life. But Swift has proven itself beyond words and expectations. I have driven it all across Maharashtra and have clocked 80k kilometers so far (70% city + rest highways) and believe me and fortunately, it has not broken down for any reason so far.It has gone to service centers only for regular servicing, nothing else. I always filled Nitrogen and was regularly checking tire pressure every two weeks. The result, tires had just 2 punctures in their whole life.
• It had Bridgestone tires which I changed to Yokohama ones after 60k. The battery was changed twice after the 4th and 8th years. Stock headlights replaced with projector ones.
• I still love this car very much. But now with so many advanced cars in the market with so many features and wanting to experience something new, I decided to go to the market to search new car.

Requirement for a new car

• Has to be an automatic one. With heavy traffic in Pune specially from the last 2-3 years, automatic would be a good choice.
• Refined engine, reliable car, good after-sales service. Should give decent mileage specially in the city.
• Need to have all possible safety features and good lifestyle features.
• A more powerful engine, good suspension, low maintenance, and good back seat space to accommodate 3 medium-sized adults.
• Driving should be enjoyable, fatigue fatigue-free on long journeys.

Cars considered and reasons for rejection

Kushaq and Taigun 1.0 TSI - Rejected because

• Limited back seat space
• 3-cylinder turbo engine. Not a fan of turbocharged engines personally.
• Not so reliable after-sales service (experience may differ for individuals/cities but did not want to take chances). Costly spares/availability of spares.

Grand Vitata/Hyryder Mild Hybrid - Rejected because

• I went to the Nexa showroom. But as soon as I entered the GV, the interiors made not so positive impression on me. It reminded me of 10-year-old Swift. The rear design is more beautiful than from facia. Plus Zeta Smart Hybrid AT does not have a rear seat arm-rest which is present in the top model but it costs around 20L otr Pune. So skipped it and Hyryder as well.

MG Astor - Rejected because

• Lack of adequate rear seat space
• Not-so-positive reviews about fuel efficiency.

Nexon - I was very much looking for a Nexon facelift even though it is a category down to the above ones. But

• Petrol DCA was costing around 17L otr Pune
• QC-related issues and some not-so-inspiring experiences heard about it on the team-bhp forum. After-sales service is still a lot to be improved. The experience may not be the same for all dealers/cities but did not want to take the risk if I am going to pay so much for a new car. One of my close friends purchased a Harrier last year and he is already cursing himself because of bothQC issues and after-sales service issues. Not anything against Tatas or the owners.

Seltos - Had a test drive of Seltos IVT HTX. But decided to wait for the Creta facelift. Seltos costs around 1L more for its HTX ivt model than Creta facelift s(o) ivt and it does not have the rear seat armrest. Also from various sources learnt that it still has a somewhat stiffer suspension. Creta has a somewhat softer suspension compared to it.

New Verna - Liked the interiors very well. Was eager for it as it has got a 5-star GNCAP rating. But the low GC and the front and rear looks went against it.

So, it left only Creta as the option for me. I did not want a turbo-charged engine or DCT gearbox for issues heard on different platforms and did not want any complications with engine or gearbox/clutch technologies. Had checked Nexon DCA as their AMT is not good.

Creta TD to Booking

• Went to a nearby Hyundai showroom with wife and daughter. Got the chance to see Sx(O) manual in black color. My wife and daughter instantly liked it for its interiors, features, audio system quality, and panoramic sun-roof. I wanted to see and have a test drive of S(O) ivt only as that was the one I was going to buy. The SA was quite friendly as he readily agreed to take us to the stockyard which is nearby from the showroom.
• We went there and got the chance to check the one which we were looking for. The dashboard layout, the beautiful looking center console with Electric parking brake, Auto-hold, and premium looking gear lever with multiple drive modes. We played some music there and were quite happy with the output. It has 4 speakers and 2 twitters. The output was quite good for our choice.
• By the time we reached back to the showroom, the SA had arranged Sx(O) ivt for a test drive. It was my first time to drive an automatic car. The SA allowed me to take quite a long test drive in which.I used all driving modes, paddle shifter, manual mode, and auto-mode. Experienced the rubber band effect as well when I tried to accelerate it hard. I took to one of the nearby open grounds. It had quite an uneven surface. Drove there a bit fast to test suspension and ground clearance, and drove it a bit fast on speed brakers but the Creta behaved excellently and proved itself. Came back happily to the showroom.
• The ivt gave a good response if we accelerate it gradually. Gear shifting is smooth with gradual acceleration, paddle shifters are also good and one can enjoy manual mode as well.
• Checked the engine bay, and bonnet. It felt heavy and as reported by one of the team-bhpian, it weighs more now. As per the steel structure demoed by Hyundai, it seems that they might have improved the build quality by using high-strength steel with a facelift model. But they need to prove it by testing it. Also, the new Verna is 5-star rated, so we may see some good results for Creta as well.
• The decision was made final. The daughter was happy and excited to have such a big sunroof. The black color choice was of a daughter. Wifey was happy with the interiors and spaciness and overall good feeling of being in a Creta. One may not like the interior theme at the first look but believe me you will start liking it once you start spending time in it.

Things I did not like in Creta

• The HVAC panel looks misfit to the overall interior and dashboard theme. Also, Hyundai should have provided a soft-touch foam layer on the dashboard, and door panels at this price point. Few car manufacturers are already providing it in this category.
• We want it to be delivered on Gudi-padwa (9th April), the Maharashtrian New Year but SA could not assure us to deliver it by that time. So the next day, I went to another dealer who assured me to deliver it by that time. Had a long discussion with the new dealer SA and his boss. They agreed to give insurance at around 50k from 77k which they had originally quoted. Took it from them only as I did not want any hassle if I had to claim it in the future. They also agreed to give quite a good deal on essential accessories.
• Opted for an additional two-year extended warranty. Did not opt for SoT (shield of trust). Did not opt for any exterior/under-body coating. Opted for leatherette seat covers as I liked the material they are using. Leatherette steering cover as the S(O) does not come with any, 7D mats, mudflaps, or side cladding. Got a good deal from the dealer for these items.
• For seat covers, the front seat covers will have their door-facing side open so as not to obstruct airbags. There will be elastic bands at the top and bottom of the open ends so that they do not look shabby. The elastic bands will also not obstruct the opening of airbags in case it happens. Will share the pics of the seat covers once I get the delivery.
• This is my first story on the forum and a new experience to share the booking of a new car on team-bhp and was really excited about the journey so far... Apologies if it is very long..

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