Although they say that you first need to notice the good, and the bad will manifest itself, let us forgive us all the advantages that the Hyundai Creta car has, today we will change this rule and talk about its shortcomings.
The Creta car is sold in four trim levels:
- the most complete TOP package;
- basic Activ;
- and in the Comfort and Comfort + trim levels intermediate between them.
Creta cars are equipped with two modifications of petrol power units with a volume of one and six tenths, as well as two liters. Moreover, the first is adapted with a six-speed manual transmission, and the second with the same six-speed automatic transmission. Moreover, it is absolutely predictable that the first unit is equipped with a front-wheel drive SUV, and the second – with an all-wheel drive crossover.
Reasons for popularity
The new car model was immediately appreciated by car enthusiasts from all over the world. The modern interior and exterior are perfectly complemented by high-tech filling combined with a high level of safety for this class. The relatively low cost of the car and moderate fuel consumption are pleasant bonuses, which for many are the main factors when choosing an iron horse over other brands.
A significant advantage is that even the basic configuration is equipped with tire pressure sensors. The car is actively used by motorists in our country. After some time of use, consumers assure that the model is fully adapted to our roads and climate.
You can buy a car with 1.6 and 2-liter power engines of 122 and 150 hp. With. respectively. The consumer is offered a choice of models with six-speed manual, automatic transmissions with all-wheel drive or front-wheel drive.
New Hyundai Creta: digital dashboard and huge touchscreen. Production has started
In April 2019, at the Shanghai Motor Show, the premiere of a pre-production model of the second generation Hyundai ix25 took place - under this index a model is sold in China, which in other markets, including Russia, is known as Creta. The appearance of the conveyor version was revealed a couple of weeks ago, when a photo of the SUV was added to the database of the Ministry of Industry of the People's Republic of China. And now on the forum of the “heavenly” publication Autohome, photographs of the interior of the commercial vehicle have been published. Apparently, they were made at the local Hyundai plant, which means production of the new generation model has already started.
As on the outside, inside the “second” ix25 completely retained the design of its predecessor. Thus, a new front panel and a “truncated” steering wheel were installed in the cabin. The “tidy” is now virtual; the central air deflectors have been combined into a block, which is placed on top. Well, the main “trick” is the huge vertical screen of the multimedia system, where the climate control and other functions of the car are controlled. There is also a washer located on the tunnel next to the new transmission selector – it is probably responsible for changing driving modes.
As for the exterior, the ix25/Creta acquired multi-tiered head optics (daytime running lights on top, main headlight blocks below them, fog lamps below), and the rear lights were made double-decker - in the middle of the tailgate there is a brake light, made in the form of a narrow LED stripes. The new generation SUV is larger than its predecessor: the length has increased by 10 mm to 4300 mm, and the width has also increased by the same 10 mm (now 1790 mm). The height of the base machine, on the contrary, is trimmed by 2 mm to 1622 mm. The wheelbase of the new ix25 is 2610 mm - 20 mm longer than the previous model. Dimensions of our current Creta: 4270/1780/1630 mm, distance between axles – 2590 mm.
According to preliminary data, in the Celestial Empire the naturally aspirated 1.6 (125 hp, 150 Nm) was replaced by a naturally aspirated 1.5 engine with a power of 115 hp. (144 Nm). This engine is available in the range of the Indian Kia Seltos (a relative of the ix25) and its Chinese version (not yet officially presented). The “Indian” with such an engine is available with a six-speed manual or CVT. The same boxes probably went to the new Hyundai. It is also expected that in China the ix25 crossover will be offered with the previous 1.4 turbo-four (140 hp, 242 Nm). The current SUV with this engine is equipped with a seven-speed robotic gearbox with two clutches. The current Hyundai ix25 does not have all-wheel drive, so the new crossover in China most likely does not have a 4WD version.
Hyundai ix25 new generation. Photo from the database of the Ministry of Industry of the People's Republic of China
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Hyundai ix25 new generation. Photo from the database of the Ministry of Industry of the People's Republic of China
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A public display of the second-generation production Hyundai ix25 may take place at the Chengdu Motor Show, which opens on September 5. Sales of the model should start in China in the fall.
Russians will have to wait for the new Creta. As the head of the Russian division of Hyundai previously said in an interview with Kolesa.ru, our SUV will appear in 2021. Note that in different markets the new cross may have its own design features, as well as other engines.
Hyundai Greta car advantages and disadvantages
First of all, the appearance has nothing to do with the conceptual model declared by the developers. Wherever you look at the exterior, you can see features from either the Santa Fe or the Accent, or even the design is somewhat reminiscent of the Tucson, their early crossover. Whether this is a drawback or not is a matter of taste. It happens that copies are better than the original.
As for optics, the light power is clearly insufficient from the halogen lamps that are equipped with all modifications of the Creta, except for the top one, where LEDs are installed.
The underbody is not sufficiently protected from corrosion, although it was announced that the body will be completely galvanized. Which forces owners to bear the hassle and expense of eliminating this problem, which is growing with the rapidity of a rust epidemic, starting from the bottom and ending with the wheel fenders.
An important problem when maneuvering during parking is the non-functional “delicate” bumpers, despite the rubber inserts and the presence of a rear surveillance camera, although it is present only in the top model. What can we say then about the remaining modifications?
The first positive impressions of the interior are shattered by the realities of hard plastic, a rough and uncomfortable armrest, and even the presence of two twelve-volt sockets irritate smokers, for whom the lack of a cigarette lighter is almost a disaster. Although this “smacks”, most likely, of obsessive promotion of a healthy lifestyle, which for many is not a drawback.
Although there is no way to avoid such a drawback as the lack of a headrest on the middle rear passenger seat, as well as the inconvenience of boarding due to the sloping rear doorway.
As for the doors, they do not have additional seals on the bottom. Even the presence of high plastic thresholds does not eliminate this disadvantage of keeping the interior clean.
The blue illumination of the instrument panel is annoying, and most of all, the lack of illumination in the glove compartment in the basic and intermediate models. Only the devil in a traffic police uniform probably knows how to find the necessary document for the traffic police in such a glove compartment in the dark?
For SUV drivers who do not travel beyond the city bypass ring, this may not be relevant, but for those who need a long journey, the lack of a cruise is already a clear disadvantage.
When reviewing the shortcomings in the interior, you should point out the small monitor of the radio, as well as the fact that the sound of the speakers causes an irresistible desire to replace them as soon as possible.
As for the driver's seat, the lack of adjustments (which are only available in the top) is also annoying; even the adjustment of the steering wheel, which only extends upwards and does not get closer to the driver, is puzzling.
When driving in bad weather, the wiper blades leave a wide, so-called dead vision zone, which is fraught with traffic accidents, especially when it snows or rains at night.
There are complaints about the trunk lock, which begins to act up after the first five or ten thousand kilometers. Just like the door handles, I wanted them to be more massive.
Creta wheel drive systems
The technology for transmitting torque to all wheels of the crossover is called AWD Dynamax, and has the following operating modes:
- Automatic – when turned on, the Creta 1.6 4WD all-wheel drive remains deactivated. Engine torque is distributed to the front wheels. The car's ECU constantly analyzes the load on the power unit, the degree of wheel slip, and the vehicle's driving behavior, and, if necessary, turns on the second axle, making the crossover all-wheel drive. The use of this mode is recommended on city roads.
- Lock mode (4WD Lock) – remains activated at a speed not exceeding 30 km/h. After increasing the speed, the car's ECU switches to automatic mode. 4WD Lock is ideal for off-road driving and terrain with difficult terrain, since during its operation the maximum amount of traction force is transmitted to the wheels.
Depending on road conditions and driving characteristics, the ECU in the described modes automatically connects the Hyundai Creta's all-wheel drive if the situation requires it. For example, when driving in cruise control mode, torque is transmitted only to the front wheels, and when entering a turn (depending on the speed and maneuver angle), the control system evenly distributes force to all wheels, engaging all-wheel drive. As a result, the movement is completely stabilized when entering a sharp turn at high speed. If one or both front wheels slip, the system instantly activates the rear axle. When driving in areas with bad roads, it is recommended to turn on the LOCK mode, which significantly increases the crossover's cross-country ability, handling and driving characteristics.
Disadvantages under the hood
When you open the hood, the first thing that catches your eye is the dirt in the engine compartment. Thanks to the presence of many holes, it is possible to visually monitor the road surface under a standing car.
The one-point-six-liter powerplant produces a grasshopper-like whine at idle and a beetle-like whirr at high revs under load. Moreover, these insect sounds can even be heard in the cabin.
Some car enthusiasts consider aluminum cylinder blocks as a disadvantage, while others, of which I am one, consider them a disadvantage.
The disadvantage is that, no matter how much they talk about the use of hardeners and special additives that increase the mechanical stability of aluminum alloy, it is still a soft material and sooner or later the wear of aluminum cylinders will lead to the need for their boring (used when repairing steel cylinders), however It's almost impossible to do this with aluminum.
We can only hope that it won’t come to this and the user will change either the power unit itself or the car itself in time.
The power steering, which is equipped in both the base model and intermediate models of the Creta, is good only because the steering wheel is light when maneuvering in parking lots. But at speed, for some reason, the force on the steering wheel increases.
Suspension and drive
When studying the technical characteristics of the Hyundai Creta, special attention should be paid to the type of drive. On all trim levels except one option from the Comfort series, it is front-facing. In practice, drivers note that when hitting road bumps, passengers in the rear seats still feel some discomfort. This point is completely eliminated in models with all-wheel drive, where the smooth and measured movement of the Hyundai Creta is guaranteed even if the quality of the road surface is poor.
The front suspension is independent, equipped with struts with springs and anti-roll bars. The rear suspension is available in independent and semi-independent versions.
Front and rear brakes are ventilated discs.
What name is heard “under the clatter of hooves” or suspension shortcomings
The small suspension travel completely breaks the habit of not braking in front of bumps and holes. Therefore, from the first trips you need to get rid of the national peculiarity of the Russian driving style, listen to the name that sounds “from under the clatter of hooves,” and apply the widespread principle that the higher the speed, the fewer potholes and holes. This manner of driving the Creta results in considerable costs for replacing wheel rims and suspension parts.
Moreover, the disadvantage is that the front suspension of SUVs is independent, while the rear spring-loaded beam causes drivers and passengers on our washboard or cobblestone roads to nod their heads affirmatively and often even crack their teeth.
And 17-inch alloy wheels are another privilege of top-end drivers.
Greta's interior appearance
As for the design of Greta’s interior, “economy class” materials were used for its design. Despite the cheapness, the driver and passenger will always find somewhere to put their small things - there is a place for a glass of cola, a smartphone, keys and other paraphernalia and accessories. It seems that they worked on the interior for more than one day - all components are worked out very carefully and perform their assigned functions.
The new Greta is decorated with hard plastic on the inside, but it looks quite decent. The internal handrails are ergonomic and comfortable. Under the center console there are buttons responsible for three-level seat heating. The steering wheel also has several buttons designed to make it easier to control the multimedia system.
Multimedia in the Hyundai Greta turned out to be very convenient. All the necessary functions are brought forward and the response to pressing buttons is like in a premium class.
If earlier many experts scolded the front seats in Hyundai for the short backrest and lack of a pillow, then the Hyundai Creta has eliminated this shortcoming. The optimal length of the pillow, comfortable support on the sides, dense padding, a wide range of adjustments - in general, the manufacturer really tried.
Even after a long journey, the driver of the Hyundai Greta will not feel tired in his back. The ergonomics of the chair is such that the load is evenly distributed throughout the entire spinal region. Regardless of the fact that the control system is of a step type. It’s still possible to adjust the backrest “to suit you.”
As for the landing, it is optimal for domestic roads. The dimensions are perfectly perceived by the driver - the mirrors help with this. With such a wonderful view, purchasing and installing a rear view camera is unlikely to be the right decision for an experienced driver. If you do install it, you will get a wonderful device that is equipped with marked tips.
The steering wheel in the Hyundai Greta has a well-thought-out texture and a pleasant to the touch texture. Non-rough leather looks impressive and expensive. If you thought this was a budget model, you’re wrong! The devices will also be able to please the discerning user - lunar-type backlight, excellent readability, and a well-thought-out display with a sufficient amount of information. This panel will look good even in a full-size crossover.
Recommended article: Full test drive of Renault Duster 2015-2017
If you decide to buy a new Greta, then you should be aware of one “shortcoming”: the automatic window lifter is installed only on the driver’s door. Also, only one button is highlighted, while the rest remain “blind”. It’s a cheap thing and it’s hardly worth paying attention to such a drawback, since engineers often save money even on expensive cars.
If we talk about spaciousness, the new Hyundai Greta is quite capable of accommodating four people in the cabin. There is a comfortable rear seat with a high seating position. There is enough space in the legs, although the knees rest against the back of the driver's seat, but this does not cause discomfort. If you buy a fully equipped model, you will find a button on the back with two-stage seat heating.
The trunk capacity is quite acceptable, despite the low class of the car. If you decide to go on a long journey with five of you, you will have to install an additional box on the roof of the car, since the stated capacity of 400 liters will not be enough. For convenience, Greta was equipped with railings. A huge plus of the new product from Hyundai is the “underground” luggage compartment. A spare wheel and additional sections for all kinds of driver's devices can easily fit here. It turns out that the same tools will not fly and roll all over the trunk while driving.
Extra options or something like “appendicitis”
This is undoubtedly a CD drive, which is somewhat reminiscent of a gramophone in the digital age.
Monitoring tire pressure. For some, but for me, by the way, this is not an extra amount for other more useful options in the amount of 20 thousand money thrown into the wind on the side of the roads.
Rails made of thin stripes on the roof. This option is one of the functions of appendicitis - it seems like it is, and again, why is it so awkward?
The supposedly serious and necessary system designed for safe descent from the mountain should also be included in the category of “appendicitis”. On horse-drawn vehicles it may be necessary, but even there they make do by inserting special logs into the wheel spokes to brake them.
Exterior of the car
It is necessary to pay tribute to the Koreans, who set their sights on more - dominance in the crossover market. It was not in vain that the eastern tycoons sacrificed the famous Solaris to clear the factory conveyor.
Hyundai Greta 2017
Looks really good and captivating! The design of the car does not have the playfulness of the same Capture, but even without this attribute, the model turned out to be solid and interesting. Even without an emblem, the outline of the car is easy to recognize as a representative of the Korean automaker Hyudai - the faceted grille coupled with aggressive headlights speak for themselves. Despite its attractiveness, the car did not include one nuance - a colored roof, which is fashionable in these times.
“How much, how much!?”
As for the cost of Cret’s car, I involuntarily recall a reprise when, through the embrasure of a tank at the market, they ask the cost of this or that product and, after the merchant’s answer, they ask again with dissatisfaction, pointing the muzzle of a gun at him: “How much, how much!?”
Many on the forums express dissatisfaction with the high cost of the Creta car, in any of its configurations, which is further aggravated by high prices for maintenance at dealers and expensive spare parts and consumables.
Read further:
All the pros and cons of the Hyundai Creta in one review
All the disadvantages of the car
Which car is better: Hyundai Creta or Solaris
Disadvantages of the Hyundai Greta 1.6 automatic with front-wheel drive
2020 Hyundai Creta/Greta review
Maintenance and faults
The Creta transmission system does not require any additional technical manipulations. Due to the complexity of the design and the presence of many various elements and mechanisms in the all-wheel drive interconnected both with each other and with other components of the vehicle, carrying out independent repairs is not always possible. At the first sign of incorrect operation of the AWD Dynamax, which may include the inability to connect the rear wheels (in this case, the relevant information will be displayed on the dashboard), you must contact a specialized service center for diagnostics and repairs. Problems may lie in the malfunction of the drive mechanisms themselves, as well as its control elements and additional systems.
Security level
Every driver cares about his safety and the protection of passengers, therefore, when studying the characteristics of the Hyundai Creta, he must pay attention to this point. The first two trim levels of the 2016-2017 Greta include two front airbags. If we talk about the most expensive variation of the car, curtains and side airbags are additionally installed.
The model is also equipped with a system that ensures stability when performing maneuvers in which some wheels lose traction. This option is felt well when cornering at high speeds.
Another useful option is assistance when starting from a hill. It prevents the car from rolling back, allowing you to avoid such troubles as a collision with an obstacle located behind.
You should not miss the system that notifies drivers walking behind cars about emergency braking. It also minimizes the risk of an accident, ensuring the safety of all people present in the cabin.
Interesting! The interior has a rearview mirror that has two modes: day and night. This provides the driver with good visibility at any time of the day, increasing traffic safety and reducing the likelihood of accidents.
