Honda Elevate vs Hyundai Creta: A Midsize SUV Showdown
Many Honda fans have been waiting for a midsize SUV that’s the right size and competitively priced. The Elevate, launched in September 2023, seems to fit the bill. But this comparison might be helpful if you like to explore options before making a big decision like buying a car.
We’ll compare the Elevate to the Hyundai Creta, a popular midsize SUV that has set the standard for this category. While the Creta has been around longer, its recent 2024 update makes it a strong competitor. So, can the new Elevate outperform the established Creta?
The interior design of Hyundai Creta IVT and Honda Elevate CVT:
Showdown Inside: Creta vs. Elevate
While both SUVs boast attractive exteriors, let’s delve into their cabins.
Honda Elevate: The Elevate’s interior prioritizes practicality over flash. The clean dashboard offers easy access to the touchscreen and climate controls, along with handy storage compartments. The driving position is excellent, with a clear view of the hood for confident maneuvering. Plus, the generously sized, well-cushioned seats promise a comfortable ride. Higher trims get leatherette seats and accents, although the faux wood trim might not be for everyone.
Hyundai Creta: (Text about Creta’s interior design can be added here. Look for details about materials, layout, technology integration, etc.)
This comparison highlights the different approaches each car takes. The Elevate prioritizes functionality and comfort, while the Creta (details pending) might offer a more modern, tech-focused experience.
Creta’s Interior: Modern Tech with a Compromise
The Creta’s cabin makes a bolder first impression compared to the Elevate. Lighter colors, extensive detailing like metallic accents, and the dual 10.25-inch screens create a more upscale and inviting atmosphere. Additionally, the low dashboard and expansive windows offer a great outward view.
However, the Creta prioritizes style over comfort in some aspects. The seats, while stylish, aren’t as generously sized as the Honda’s.
Feature Face-off: Creta Takes the Lead (with a Caveat)
When it comes to features, the top-spec Creta SX(O) boasts a clear advantage. It offers luxurious touches like ventilated front seats, a 360-degree camera system, an attractive digital instrument cluster, dual-zone climate control, and a premium Bose sound system. For added convenience, there’s an electric parking brake and a coveted panoramic sunroof.
The infotainment system features a large 10.25-inch touchscreen that’s slick and responsive but unfortunately lacks wireless connectivity for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, which might be a dealbreaker for some users.
While the Creta goes big on style, the Elevate prioritizes features in its top-spec ZX trim. It offers a decent 10.25-inch touchscreen with the convenience of wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. A wireless phone charger and a single-pane sunroof add to the comfort package. The Elevate feels competitively priced, but there’s a sense that a higher trim with even more features could be offered.
Rear Seat Showdown:
Creta: Despite its slightly smaller boot space (433 liters), the Creta feels roomier in the back, likely due to the panoramic sunroof and wider cabin. Three passengers can sit comfortably, although the lack of a rear center headrest is a drawback. However, outboard passengers get window sunshades, headrest pillows, and a well-placed center armrest with an adjustable seat back angle for added comfort.
Elevate: The Elevate takes the crown for cargo capacity with a larger 458-liter boot. Both SUVs offer split-folding rear seats for additional space when needed.
Creta vs. Elevate: Powertrain Showdown
Creta: Offers a wider range of engines, including a 1.5L turbo-petrol and a 1.5L diesel. We focus on the 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol with CVT for a fair comparison to the Elevate.
- Pros: Smooth and refined engine, good power delivery for city use, quiet operation.
- Cons: Mid-range isn’t punchy, drive modes might not be used much.
Elevate: Only comes with a 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol engine with CVT.
- Pros: Slightly more powerful engine, good throttle response.
- Cons: Noisy during hard acceleration, suffers from CVT rubber band effect, less refined overall.
Overall: Creta offers a smoother and more relaxed driving experience, while Elevate prioritizes raw power but suffers from noise and CVT drawbacks.
Creta vs. Elevate: Ride and Handling
Creta: Offers a smoother ride, especially at lower speeds.
Elevate: Feels more planted and handles better on winding roads due to higher ground clearance and stiffer suspension. However, the ride is less comfortable at low speeds.
Safety: Both offer similar standard safety features (airbags, stability control) with optional ADAS features. Creta’s ADAS system might be more reliable due to radar integration.
Creta vs. Elevate: The Final Verdict
Creta: More expensive, but offers a plusher cabin, more features, better ride quality, and superior fuel efficiency.
Elevate More affordable, good value for features, a peppy engine, better handling, and higher ground clearance. However, fuel efficiency and refinement are lower.
Also read : Electric SUV alert! Launch of the anticipated Sierra EV in FY2026.
Choosing the right one depends on your priorities:
- Features, comfort, and refinement: Go for the Creta.
- Value, practicality, and a bit of ruggedness: Choose the Elevate.
