Hyundai Creta vs Honda Elevate: Mid-Size SUV Showdown

In the competitive realm of mid-size SUVs, the showdown between the newly facelifted Hyundai Creta and the stylish Honda Elevate is generating considerable buzz. Both models bring distinct strengths to the table, making the choice between them a challenge for car enthusiasts and prospective buyers alike. Let’s explore each SUV in detail to determine which one best suits your needs.

Design and Exterior

Honda Elevate:

The Honda Elevate presents a robust and muscular design, characterized by its upright bonnet and large grille. Its commanding presence on the road is accentuated by a generous ground clearance of 220 mm and a long wheelbase, making it both imposing and practical.

Hyundai Creta:

In contrast, the Hyundai Creta boasts a more contemporary and eye-catching design, especially following its recent facelift. With bold styling elements such as a block-like grille pattern and connected headlamps and tail lamps, the Creta exudes a trendy and modern aesthetic, particularly in its N Line variant.

Interior and Features

Hyundai Creta:

Stepping into the Hyundai Creta, one is immediately greeted by an upmarket and inviting interior. The use of lighter materials, metallic finishes, and connected screens creates a premium ambiance. The Creta is equipped with an array of features, including a 10.25-inch touchscreen, full digital dials, dual-zone climate control, a Bose sound system, electric parking brake, and a panoramic sunroof, enhancing both comfort and convenience.

• 10.25-inch touchscreen
• Full digital dials
• Dual-zone climate control
• Bose sound system
• Electric parking brake
• Panoramic sunroof

Honda Elevate:

While not as flashy as its counterpart, the Honda Elevate offers a functional and well-designed interior. Though the dashboard design may appear plain, essential controls are intuitively placed, and storage options abound. Features in the top-spec ZX trim include a 10.25-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a wireless phone charger, and a single-pane sunroof, albeit with some drawbacks such as the use of hard plastics and a dated wooden finish.

• 10.25-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Wireless phone charger
• Single-pane sunroof

Rear Seats and Space

Hyundai Creta:

In the rear, the Hyundai Creta excels in providing ample space and comfort. Its generous shoulder room allows for three passengers to sit comfortably, complemented by amenities such as an adjustable armrest, dedicated air conditioning vents, Type-C USB ports, sun shades, headrest pillows, and a panoramic sunroof, enhancing the overall passenger experience.

• Adjustable armrest
• Dedicated air conditioning vents
• Type-C USB ports
• Sun shades
• Headrest pillows
• Panoramic sunroof

Honda Elevate:

While slightly less spacious, the Honda Elevate still offers a comfortable rear seating area. Its long wheelbase ensures adequate knee room, and large windows contribute to a bright and airy feel. Rear amenities include a fold-down center armrest with a phone pocket and a 12V charger, though the absence of Type-A or Type-C USB ports is noted.

• Fold-down center armrest with a phone pocket
• 12V charger

Performance and Driving Experience

Hyundai Creta:

Under the hood, the Hyundai Creta offers a range of engine options to cater to diverse driving needs. The 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol engine paired with a CVT gearbox delivers smooth and refined performance, ideal for city driving. Drive modes such as Normal, Eco, and Sport offer versatility, complementing the Creta’s laid-back and comfortable driving demeanor.

Honda Elevate:

The Honda Elevate features a 1.5L naturally aspirated VTEC petrol engine paired with a CVT gearbox. While providing a slight power advantage, the CVT exhibits more pronounced rubber band effect during aggressive acceleration, leading to increased engine noise. Nevertheless, the Elevate performs admirably in city driving conditions, with crisp throttle responses and a well-tuned CVT.

Fuel Economy

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Hyundai Creta holds a clear advantage over the Honda Elevate. Its higher official mileage figures and superior real-world city economy surpass the Elevate’s, contributing to overall cost savings in the long run.

Pricing and Value

The Hyundai Creta offers a broader range of variants and pricing options compared to the Honda Elevate. While the Elevate may present a more affordable entry point, the Creta’s wider spread of features and options justifies its slightly higher price tag, offering better overall value for discerning buyers.

Verdict

Choosing between the Hyundai Creta and the Honda Elevate depends on individual priorities and preferences. While the Elevate excels in practicality and affordability, the Creta offers a more refined and feature-rich package, making it the ideal choice for those seeking a premium driving experience. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what matters most to you in a mid-size SUV