New Hyundai Creta spied testing, strong hybrid engine expected
Spy shots from testing in southern Spain reveal the next-generation Hyundai Creta's design ahead of a likely 2026-end or 2027 launch.
The wait for the next generation of the Hyundai Creta, which has long topped the Indian automobile market, is nearing its end. New spy shots of the popular SUV emerged while it was undergoing road testing in scorching heat in southern Spain. A towing dyno was fitted at the rear of the car, indicating that the company is thoroughly testing the vehicle's towing capacity and its performance under sustained load this time.
Earlier, the car's full design used to be hidden under boxy camouflage during testing. But in the new photos, this cover has been removed, leaving only the camouflage wrap. As a result, the SUV's exterior design is now largely visible. The new SUV is said to be based on Hyundai's latest "Art of Steel" design language.
It will feature sharper and more angular lines than before. The front has a straight, boxy silhouette. It is also expected to get H-style top-mounted LED daytime running lights, LED projector headlamps, a new grille and a main bumper with slatted elements.
On the side profile, the car shows a sloping roofline, flush door handles, circular wheel arches and sporty dual-tone machined alloy wheels. At the rear, it is expected to get a roof-mounted spoiler, a raked windshield, a flat boot lid, a large bumper and H-style tail lamps.
The new Creta is set for major technology changes. The car is being converted into a software-defined vehicle, meaning new features and improvements can be added over time through over-the-air updates. It is also expected to get the Pleos Connect system, which will allow several infotainment and instrument cluster functions to be operated together from the central screen.
On the powertrain front, the new Creta is expected to get a strong hybrid system. Globally, a 1.6-litre naturally aspirated GDI petrol engine has already been introduced with a hybrid system. However, in India, the SUV may launch with a strong hybrid powertrain based on a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. The existing engine options will also be retained. The much-awaited car could launch later this year or in 2027.
