autoX Awards 2024: Hyundai Creta N Line Performance, Quality and Value for Money Ranked

autoX Awards 2024: Among all the cars in our jury round test, and even within the crowded mid-size SUV market, few vehicles receive as much acclaim as the Hyundai Creta, and rightly so. It offers ample space, a host of features, impressive comfort, and an enjoyable driving experience. However, Hyundai India’s leadership believed the Creta was worthy of even greater recognition, leading to the debut of the new Hyundai Creta N-Line this year. With sharper styling, enhanced performance, and the same family-friendly appeal, it aims to raise the bar even higher.

Even before diving into its performance credentials, the Hyundai Creta N-Line makes a strong impression with its styling enhancements. The refreshed front fascia, N-Line-specific 18-inch alloy wheels, double-stacked rear spoiler, blacked-out rear diffuser, and dual chrome-plated exhaust tips all make a bold statement of its sporty aspirations. Our test model featured the 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, paired with a responsive 7-speed DCT. Notably, the N-Line version is the only Creta variant to offer a 6-speed manual option with a turbocharged petrol engine. The output remains unchanged at 160bhp and 250Nm of peak torque. While its handling is indeed different, its engine performance seems familiar, which I found to be a bit underwhelming. That said, the engine delivers a strong initial surge and accelerates confidently towards the redline but falls flat in the second part of the rev range. While there is still plenty of power on tap, it lacks the exhilarating punch you might expect, especially with an N-Line badge at the back.

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That said, two key aspects redeemed the Creta N-Line’s performance in our jury tests. First, the quick-shifting 7-speed DCT compensates well for the engine’s slight flatness by maintaining momentum and keeping the vehicle within the powerband, particularly in Sport mode. The gear ratios are well-calibrated, which adds to driving engagement. And then there is the handling, which showcases the N-Line magic. The electric steering well-weighted and provides greater feedback than the standard model. Additionally, the Creta N-Line’s firmer suspension setup translates into a composed and confident ride. It absorbs rough patches with ease and feels planted around corners. The Creta N-Line consistently delivered a composed and engaging drive, without ever giving the impression that it was out of its element. It gets its basics right and always remained predictable. Overall, it is well-engineered product that is fun-to-drive, and gets all the basics of a mid-size family SUV spot on.

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