The Hyundai Creta facelift has touched down in South Africa, bringing a new-look face, turbocharged N Line flagship and rationalised line-up. We take it for a quick drive.
Hyundai is the 4th bestselling passenger car brand in South Africa, a fact the Korean giant gently reminded us of at the media launch of its revised Creta. The brand hasn’t had much to talk about over the past 2 years, other than the local debut of the flagship Santa Fe hybrid.
In fact, this author’s last Hyundai event was back in 2024 for the special-edition Creta with matte paint. With the local arrival of both the updated Creta and Staria, Hyundai South Africa has embarked on a new-product offensive that will also include a new-generation Venue before the end of 2026 and the debut of the new Stargazer in early 2027.
What’s new?
The new-look Hyundai Creta facelift has been substantially overhauled, both inside and out. The biggest talking point is its front design, which adopts a lighting layout from the Alcazar, Santa Fe and, to a degree, the compact Exter.
The range has been rejigged, with 2 derivatives from the pre-facelift era falling away. Impressively, the Premium IVT derivative comes in at R45 000 less than the previous model, which is great for affordability. There’s a new flagship, too, in the form of a sporty-looking 1.5T N Line DCT that sees the return of turbocharged petrol power to the Creta line-up.
Read more: Hyundai Creta (2017-2020) Buyer’s Guide
The N Line model gets some sporty touches in the form of 18-inch alloy wheels, subtle N Line badging, roof-mounted rear spoiler and twin exhausts, while the cabin gets some red stitching, sport seats, panoramic sunroof and gearshift paddles on the steering wheel. A Bose audio system is a pleasant premium touch at this price point.
In terms of powertrain, the naturally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol makes 84 kW and 144 Nm, driving the front wheels via a continuously variable transmission. The N Line Creta’s 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine makes 118 kW and 253 Nm, which reaches the front wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
What is the Hyundai Creta N Line like to drive?
We don’t know who decided to make compact and sensible city SUVs sporty, but we’re glad these products exist because they make the commute a bit more involving and lively. Granted, you’re not going to set speed records in this vehicle, but for point-to-point theatrics? Highly amusing.
The N Line model features various driving modes, but even in its default setting, the Creta feels eager. In-gear acceleration to triple-digit speeds is effortless and engagement via the steering-wheel paddles will put a smile on your dial. It’s no Suzuki Swift Sport, but in an era where grin-inducing vehicles are a rarity and reserved for millionaires, its great to see a brand trying to put some fun back into its products.
Given its sporty aspirations and the larger wheels, the N Line rides a little stiffer than its non-sporty counterpart. However, we feel the trade-off for a more dynamic driving experience is worth it.
Value is excellent, too, with very few tech, comfort and convenience features missing. Standout items include wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a full ADAS suite, plenty of USB charging ports both front and rear, as well as a panoramic sunroof.
How much does the Hyundai Creta facelift cost in South Africa?
The new Hyundai Creta is sold with a 7-year/200 000 km manufacturer’s warranty, 4-year/60 000 km service plan as well as 7-year/150 000 km roadside assistance.
| Old model | Last pricing | New model | Pricing |
| Creta 1.5 Premium MT | R449 900 | Discontinued | |
| Creta 1.5 Premium IVT | R479 900 | Creta 1.5 Premium IVT | R434 900 |
| Creta 1.5 Executive IVT | R519 900 | Discontinued | |
| Creta 1.5T N Line DCT | R569 900 |
Summary
Hyundai South Africa will be busy over the next year as it launches multiple vehicles across segments. Given our country’s affordability crisis, well-equipped and good-to-drive compact SUVs are the market’s sweet spot and vehicles like the Creta are Hyundai’s bread-and-butter. We’re keen to put the new Creta N Line through a full road test to see if the go matches the very impressive show.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What engine options power the Hyundai Creta in South Africa?
How much does the Hyundai Creta cost in South Africa?
- Hyundai Creta 1.5 Premium CVT: Priced from R434 900
- Hyundai Creta 1.5T N Line DCT: Priced from R569 900
