Hyundai Grand Creta Is A New Three-Row SUV For South Africa

Hyundai has expanded its range in South Africa with the launch of the 2022 Grand Creta.

The SUV is based on a modified version of the K2 platform that underpins the Kia Seltos and Hyundai Venue and borrows its exterior design from the pre-facelift Creta that was first introduced in Asia 2019 but has since been refreshed with styling more akin to the larger Tucson. Making South Africa’s Grand Creta unique is the fact that it offers three rows of seating.

Local customers will have two engines to choose from. The first is a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 156 hp and 140 lb-ft (191 Nm) while the second takes the form of a 1.5-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder that produces 113 hp and 184 lb-ft (250 Nm) of torque. A six-speed manual comes standard but customers can opt for a six-speed automatic. Both models are front-wheel drive.

South African shoppers will be able to purchase the Grand Creta in either Executive or Elite trim levels. Among the standard features of the Executive are a rear-view camera, an 8.0-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, LED headlights, and 17-inch wheels. Meanwhile, the Elite has many of the same features as the Executive but adds a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and 18-inch wheels.

Compared to the standard Hyundai Creta sold in other markets, the Grand Creta is 200 mm (7.8 inches) longer and has a 150 mm (5.9 inches) longer wheelbase, allowing Hyundai to install the third row of seats. The SUV also offers 6.3 cubic-feet (180 liters) of space with the third-row in its upright position and 58.9 cubic feet (1,670 liters) with it folded down.

For the most part, the Grand Creta appears to be all but identical in name to the Hyundai Alcazar that was launched in India 12 months ago.

Local pricing kicks off from 449,900 Rand, the equivalent of a touch over $30,800.