Hyundai India knows electrification is a paradigm shift for the Indian automotive market. As EV sales are projected to soar in the coming years, Hyundai's foray into the mid-size electric SUV market with the Creta Electric is both timely and satisfying. We had the chance to get behind the wheel and explore this vehicle's technical nuances, which revealed a promising yet pragmatic approach to electric mobility. Spoiler alert, it’s a great package.
Design Balances Form & Function
Creta’s design has now become synonymous with progressive thinking. Customers know Hyundai’s look is futuristic against others in the segment. The Hyundai Creta Electric further enhances this appeal carefully balancing aesthetics with aerodynamic efficiency. The pixelated LED lighting, a signature feature from Hyundai's global portfolio, stands out, while the active air flaps are an understated nod to engineering innovation. These flaps intelligently optimise airflow to improve cooling efficiency or reduce drag as needed, a subtle but effective technical feature.
The straight roofline, paired with a 200 mm ground clearance, establishes its SUV credentials. We took it off-road a bit just to check the clearance, and it delivers. The 17-inch aero alloy wheels not only contribute to a distinctive look but also improve efficiency. The colours on offer are also a great blend of classy yet subtle flavour. The mattes are especially tasty. Meanwhile, the shark fin antenna and rear spoiler blend style with function, enhancing aerodynamics and overall efficiency. It looks very similar to its internal combustion counterparts, with subtle hints highlighting its EV-ness.
Powertrain Choices Are For Every Driver
The Creta Electric offers two powertrain configurations: a 42 kWh battery with a 133 bhp motor and a 51.4 kWh option delivering 168 bhp. Both configurations feature a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery pack, with ranges of 390 km and 473 km, respectively. These figures, though competitive, are still subject to real-world driving needs of consumers rather than merely chasing headline-grabbing numbers. And they greatly depend on the number of occupants and luggage in the vehicle. However, by optimising your driving style coupled with regen, you’ll drive for 300km, and 350km on the 51.4 kWh version, before you start looking for a charger.
On the road, the electric motor's 255 Nm torque has an addictive shove making city driving both responsive and engaging. Hyundai's integration of a high-voltage fuse and robust battery management systems underpins the battery's safety credentials. Notably, the IP67-rated pack has been tested against rigorous conditions, including water submersion and drop tests, a reassuring feature for a country with diverse weather extremes.
Charging Solutions Add Versatility
Charging options are a great boon on our roads. For those on the go, a 50 kW DC fast-charging capability allows an 80% recharge in under an hour. Hyundai is future-proofing its electric cars with support for 100 kW chargers through a software update later in 2025. The inclusion of an 11 kW on-board AC charger means a full charge can be achieved in less than five hours.
This duality of home and public charging adaptability caters well to the evolving EV ecosystem in India, where public infrastructure is still catching up but improving steadily. Also, you can find chargers and even pre-pay through the wallet on the infotainment system itself, for added convenience. This also opens the possibility for more payment services to be added in the future on Hyundai vehicles.
Interior Space Meets Sustainability
The Creta Electric’s interior is not just spacious but forward-thinking in its material choices. Eco-friendly upholstery, made from recycled plastics and corn extracts, is a commendable effort toward sustainability. The floating console, ambient lighting, and dual 10.25-inch digital screens combine to create a cockpit that feels premium yet user-friendly. The column drive mode selector is able to free up more space in the cabin for storage spaces.
The three-spoke steering is well weighed. Weirdly the steering mounted audio and driver info system buttons have been swapped as a result of customer feedback. Customers have suggested this change, but it is not intuitive at all. The visual and directional proximity of the infotainment is towards the left and driver info is on the right, including the lane assist and radar controls. Swapping them is just wrong.
With a wheelbase of 2,610 mm, the cabin provides ample legroom and headroom, especially for rear passengers. Features like the powered passenger seat walk-in device and reclining rear seats reflect thoughtful ergonomics, making the Creta Electric a strong contender for family buyers.
A Balanced Performer At Driving
The Creta Electric handles urban commutes and open highways with equal poise. No really, the ride and handling, steering response and throttle feedback work great. The regenerative braking system, adjustable, up to four levels, allows for energy recovery tailored to the driving scenario. The Level 4 i-Pedal mode simplifies stop-and-go traffic by enabling one-pedal driving, a feature that we’ve been told becomes second nature after a short acclimation period. However, we may have slight apprehensions about this particular feature because of the sheer unknowns on Indian roads.
The chassis and suspension setup, including McPherson struts up front and a torsion beam at the rear, offer a comfortable ride. However, the suspension could feel slightly firm on uneven roads, a trade-off likely made for handling stability given the weight of the battery. The brakes are good, but more bite will be welcome since it's running on those low-rolling resistance tyres.
Technology Packed With A Future-Ready Approach
The Creta Electric scores high on safety with its radar-based Level 2 ADAS. Features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and autonomous emergency braking are great additions. Frankly, this is the only system in this segment, along with the sister company, that works very well on our highways. Standard safety elements, including six airbags, electronic stability control, and hill descent control, further bolster its appeal.
The structural integrity of the vehicle benefits from the extensive use of high-strength steel and hot stamping, ensuring robust crashworthiness. Hyundai assures battery safety with the integration of advanced thermal and voltage monitoring systems.
The Creta Electric embraces Hyundai's BlueLink connected car technology with over 70 features, ranging from remote charging control to voice commands in regional languages. The digital key functionality, enabling smartphone-based access and sharing, is a standout feature for tech-savvy buyers.
Moreover, the vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability enhances versatility, allowing users to power external devices, from laptops to camping equipment, directly from the car. This could be great fun, but you’ll also have to keep an eye out on your range figures to journey back from the campsite. Vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) capability is not a feature on the Creta Electric.
Definitely A Great Choice
The Hyundai Creta Electric delivers on its promise of being a well-rounded electric SUV for the Indian market. It does not chase over-the-top claims, but instead focuses on practical, real-world usability, from charging versatility to interior comfort.
Hyundai is also pricing the Creta Electric aggressively to give stiff competition to other players in the segment. Hyundai may have demonstrated a pragmatic understanding of what Indian consumers expect from an EV—efficiency, safety, and comfort, all wrapped in a package that feels familiar yet futuristic.
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