Next Hyundai Creta Spied Testing With New Design and Tech
Spy shots of the next-generation Hyundai Creta reveal its sharper exterior design and confirm major updates including a Software Defined Vehicle platform
The next-generation Hyundai Creta has been spied testing in southern Spain, revealing a sharper exterior design and undergoing tow-capacity evaluations. The SUV is expected to launch later this year or in 2027 with substantial technological upgrades, including a transition to a Software Defined Vehicle (SDV) platform.
New spy images show the test mule without its previous boxy camouflage, offering a clearer look at its shape. The new Creta adopts Hyundai's latest 'Art of Steel' design language, resulting in more angular lines and an upright front fascia.
Exterior Design Details
The front end is expected to feature H-styled top-mounted LED DRLs combined with LED projector headlamps flanking a new grille. A prominent bumper with slatted elements is also likely. The side profile reveals a slanted roofline, flush door handles, circular wheel arches, and sporty dual-tone alloy wheels.
At the rear, key elements include a roof-mounted spoiler, a raked windshield, a flat boot lid, and a chunky bumper. H-styled tail lamps, similar in theme to the front DRLs, are anticipated.
Major Tech and Software Upgrades
The new Creta is poised for a significant technological evolution. Its transition to a Software Defined Vehicle (SDV) will allow for continuous over-the-air (OTA) updates throughout the vehicle's lifecycle, enabling new features and improvements without hardware changes.
The SUV is also expected to receive the Pleos Connect system. This setup features a primary central screen that integrates infotainment and instrument cluster functions into three core sections. A slimmer digital display mounted behind the steering wheel will show essential driving data like speed and turn-by-turn navigation.
New Hybrid Powertrains and Features
A major update will be the introduction of a strong hybrid powertrain. For markets that receive the new Kona, this hybrid system will be the same as the one in the global-spec Seltos, built around a 1.6-litre naturally aspirated GDI petrol engine.
The report states the system's configuration and output vary by variant below.
| Variant | Electric Motors | Drive | Combined Output |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Hybrid | One | 2WD | 154 PS |
| eAWD Hybrid | Two | All-Wheel Drive | 178 PS |
Variants with dual motors will have eAWD (electric all-wheel drive) capability. Other expected features include Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, regenerative braking, and AI-powered voice commands.
For the Indian market, the new Creta will use a strong hybrid powertrain built around a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. Existing engine options will continue to be available alongside the new hybrid. The vehicle was seen with a towing dyno during testing, indicating evaluations of its tow capacity and performance under continuous load.
