In mid-2020, we reported about the 7-seater version of Hyundai Creta that was spied testing in South Korea. Now, for the very first time, the three-row version of India's favorite compact SUV has been spotted in our country. Though it was heavily wrapped in camouflage, it revealed some new design-related information.
7-seater Hyundai Creta: What do the images reveal?
As revealed by the spy images, the elongated version of the Hyundai Creta will feature a differently styled grille than the slatted pattern front fascia of its 5-seater counterpart. It will also get front parking sensors, which is a big miss on the current version.
Asides from this, the vehicle has similar alloy wheels & a split headlamp setup as its 5-seater version, but the design of its taillamps & the rear-end seems distinctive. It could be longer than the 5-seater Creta (4,300mm), however, its wheelbase is expected to be the same (2600mm).
The interior images of the 7-seater Creta are yet to come, but we expect its cabin design to remain largely comparable to the current model of Creta, except for the 3rd row & seating configuration. Hyundai may offer optional captain seats in the second row.
In terms of features, it will retain all equipment of the ongoing model such as a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Hyundai's BlueLink connected technology, Apple Carplay & Android Auto smartphone connectivity, ventilated front seats, Bose sound system, panoramic sunroof, multiple airbags, ESC with VSM, traction control, Hill Hold Control, electronics barking brakes, etc.
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Expected Engine
Under the hood, we believe the Hyundai will only offer standard Creta’s 1.5-liter diesel (115PS/250Nm) and 1.4-liter turbocharged petrol engine (140PS/242Nm) with the 7-seater Creta. As it will require higher torque output to pull the car; hence Creta's 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine (115PS/144Nm) may not be suitable for it.
The transmission options are likely to be similar to the 5-seater Creta: a 6-speed manual/6-speed automatic for the diesel engine, and a 6-speed manual/7-speed DCT automatic for the turbo-petrol motor.
Also Read: Hyundai Mobility Membership Program Extended For All Hyundai Customers
Expected Model Name, Price & Launch Date
Hyundai could launch Creta 7-seater SUV in the second quarter (between April and June) of 2021. It is expected to be named "Alcazar" as the Korean brand has recently registered this nomenclature in India.
As far as the pricing is concerned, the 7 seater Creta could carry a premium of around Rs 1 lakh over the current 5-seater model that retails from Rs 9.82 lakh to Rs 17.32 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). Once launched, it could challenge the MG Hector Plus and the upcoming Tata Gravitas.
