Hyundai are to release a new vehicle globally later in 2015, to compete in the same sub-compact SUV segment as the Renault Duster, Ford Ecosport, Mazda CX-3 and Honda HR-V. The Creta – we’re told that the name signifies ‘creativity’ – will be the company’s first sub-compact SUV.
In a sign that the global automotive market has changed in recent years, the new model will be launched in India. Speculation is rife that the model will also be made on the subcontinent, where the Hyundai i20 is already being produced. However, will it be made available in Australia, or will its sale to be restricted to the Asian marketplace?
“Creta will be an influential global model for the Hyundai Motor brand in one of the fastest-growing vehicle segments, helping the company to reach out to many more consumers in new and established international markets,” Hyundai declared, early in June. Despite this, Hyundai Australia remained non-committal about whether it would be made available via domestic dealerships.
An Australian release is inevitable, according to Mike Costello of Caradvice.com. “Given the fact the Creta will be made for global markets - in other words, made in right-hand-drive - and given the sharp growth in small SUV sales in recent years (up about 30.0 per cent this year alone), it’s hard to see why it wouldn’t.”
While much has yet to be confirmed about the new design, many details are already circulating. Underpinning the new design is Hyundai’s ‘Fluidic Sculpture 2.0’ philosophy, which has developed the earlier ‘Fluidic Design’ theme into something more refined. The photos released online show strong design lines, with an upswept profile, streamlined windows and deep lower body cladding.
The front fascia is dominated by a wide hexagonal grill with three chromed slats, steeply angled projector headlamps above fog lamps set into the bumper. The look is a confident one, with a certain amount of attitude. The effect is completed with 15”, five-spoke alloy wheels. When it comes to specifications, it’s anticipated that the Creta will be 4270mm long, 1780mm wide and 1630mm high, with a 2590mm wheelbase.
The Creta will be powered by 1.4- and 1.6L CRDi diesel engines, with 6-speed manual and automatic transmissions. There will also be a 1.6L petrol version, with a 5-speed manual gearbox.
At this stage, all that can be said about the forthcoming global launch is that it’s likely to take place in India next month, as a press conference has been announced. Meanwhile, Australia awaits further news.
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