• Monday, December 30, 2024
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Locally assembled new Hyundai CRETA launched in Nigeria

Hyundai_CRETA_SUV

A locally assembled all-new CRETA by Hyundai Motor Nigeria has been launched, with the redesigned SUV model expected to create unparalleled driving experiences for customers across the region.

Unveiled during a press launch at the weekend, the second-generation CRETA has been transformed into the ultimate sub-compact SUV for any terrain.

The locally assembled second generation of CRETA SUV follows the company’s local assembly initiative since 2014, which has seen it delivering world-class vehicles to the Nigerian market, from local assembling.

Building on the earlier CRETA model, the new variant is more spacious, boasts improved features and utilizes state-of-the-art technologies to meet the complete needs of working professionals, young peer group and families.

As official dealers of the brand in Nigeria, Gaurav Vashisht, head, Sales and Marketing at Hyundai Motors Nigeria, explained one of the main benefits for buyers is the five-year warranty, which ensures any issues arising from manufacturing faults are covered free including labour. He also noted that the vehicles are not made of excessively complex technologies so are easy to maintain for users.

Central to Hyundai’s vision of delivering a superior experience is performance and the CRETA is installed with highly evolved powertrain engines, which will bring more power and cleaner emissions.

“Developing high-quality vehicles are at the core of our vision and this is reflected with the all-new Hyundai CRETA model,” said Vashisht.

According to him, “Since the first model was launched, the CRETA has become one of the most popular vehicles and the latest version is set to be a game-changer in the sub-compact SUV segment. From top to bottom, we have crafted the car carefully, pushing the boundaries to ensure that it stands out on the road and is equipped with a wide range of improved features that will deliver even more fun-loving driving experiences.

“Ultimately, the new CRETA is no like no other vehicle. It’s a true urban crossover with loads of versatility that is modern, sensuous and sporty in design.”

The all-new Creta comes with a choice of three engines. The Smart stream G1.5 (maximum power of 115ps/6,300rpm and maximum torque of 14.7kgf.m/4,500rpm) and the Kappa 1.4T-GDI (140ps/6,000rpm and 24.7kgf.m/1,500-3,200rpm) are both gasoline engines, providing better fuel economy on the roads.

Offering more choice is the diesel U2 1.5 VGT (DSL) engine, which has a maximum power of 115ps/4,000rpm and a maximum torque of 25.5kgf.m/1,500-2,750rpm.

To match the performance, Hyundai has made significant improvements to both the interior and exterior including the size. At 4,300mm (length) and 1,790mm (width), the outside of the CRETA is 20mm and 10mm bigger respectively than the first model.

The masculine personality on the front is reflected through the grille’s bold and rectangular latticework, holding a bigger and more striking H-logo as well as distinctive two-tier headlamps. The addition of sinewy character lines over the clamshell-type bonnet also reinforces the masculine identity.

The quality of the exterior is replicated inside with the increase in size providing more space, comfort and convenience.

The vehicle is to retail for N12.9 million, with a second option of N11.9 million that has a slight difference in some features. For both options; shape, size, dimension, engine, transmission remain the same, while differences come in leather seats, infotainment, and rear parking camera for instance.

Caleb Ojewale is an Assistant Editor at BusinessDay Newspaper in Nigeria, where he also heads Industry and Real Sector, supervising all associated beats/desks. He is concurrently Editor for Features, Interviews, and the Newspaper's Backpage (Monday to Thursday). He has also been OP-ED Editor and a member of the Editorial Board. A well rounded business journalist; he is a recipient of multiple local and international journalism awards. Caleb is a fellow of the University of Oxford and OKP and has bachelor’s and Master's degrees in communication from Lagos State University and the University of Lagos, respectively.

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