A Creta Above: Hyundai’s Compact SUV Keeps On Climbing

By Imraan Buccus

The Hyundai Creta made its debut in 2017 in SA. It didn’t take long before it became a familiar face in driveways, from my hometown in Durban to Diepsloot.

It satisfied the need for space for the kids, the cooler box, and maybe even your road bike, like in my case. And it had that perfect mix of practicality and polish that South Africans couldn’t resist. Fast-forward eight years, and the Creta has grown up, with sharper styling, new tech, and a version for just about every kind of buyer.

Fan favourite

Like other South Korean vehicles, Hyundai has come to be known as a brand that feels solid, is well-built, and a bit more premium than you’d expect. Maybe not Tucson, but great nonetheless.

At launch, Hyundai kept things simple – three models, one trim level, and two engine options: a 1.6-litre petrol and a punchy 1.6 turbodiesel. They didn’t try to be flashy; they just gave us what we needed. And it worked.

Progress as the years pass

The second-gen Creta landed in 2020, and let’s just say – Hyundai stopped playing it safe. The new look was bold and a bit polarising, but the updates inside were hard to ignore. Touchscreens, tech, and a more refined cabin made it feel more upmarket, while the new 1.4 turbo engine brought some welcome oomph to the line-up.

The line-up grew, too – now with everything from an entry-level Premium model to a top-spec turbo with a slick dual-clutch ‘box. Both the 1.5 petrol and diesel options were detuned slightly, but they still offered decent pull for daily use.

Change accelerated in 2024, with a refreshed new Hyundai Creta once again. And this time, it’s the Matte Edition that’s stealing the spotlight. It doesn’t just look good – it turns heads. Available in black, white, or silver, the Matte version adds gloss-black 17-inch rims, black door handles, and black mirror caps for that stealthy, modern vibe.

But don’t be fooled – under the skin, it’s still the same trusty 1.5-litre engine delivering 84 kW and 144 N.m. It’s not going to win any drag races, but as we noted in our launch review: “If 84 kW is enough for your needs, you’ll be rewarded with a level of refinement that punches above its weight.”

Most models now come with Hyundai’s IVT gearbox – their take on a CVT – and while the purists might miss a manual option, it’s a smooth, easygoing drive that suits the Creta’s chilled character.

The verdict

The Hyundai Creta might not shout the loudest in the crowded crossover crowd, but it speaks clearly – and to a wide audience. Whether you’re a school-run parent, a city slicker, or someone who just wants a reliable, stylish ride that does the job without fuss, the Creta still ticks all the right boxes. And with the latest refresh, it’s clear Hyundai’s not letting this SUV lose its shine anytime soon.

Price and maintenance

Every new Creta comes with peace of mind: