Hyundai Creta EV: Bridging Gaps But Still Playing Catch-Up

1 min read

In January 2025, Hyundai unveiled its Creta EV at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo. With bookings priced from ₹17.99 Lakh, dual battery offerings, ADAS, and a familiar SUV form, it arrived as a showstopper. Now, June 2025 finds it jockeying for position amidst fierce competition from rivals like Tata, Mahindra, and VinFast — and the verdict is mixed.

Technical Highlights

  • Battery Options
    • 42 kWh pack: 390 km ARAI range
    • 51.4 kWh pack: 473 km ARAI range
  • Performance
    • Power: 99 kW (135 PS) and 126 kW (171 PS) depending on battery pack
    • Acceleration: 0–100  KM/H in 7.9 Seconds
  • Fast Charging
    • DC 10–80 % in 58 minutes
    • AC home charging: 4 hours via 11 kW wall box 
  • Features
    • Panoramic sunroof, dual 10.25 inch screens, ventilated seats, wireless charging, digital key, vehicle-to-load (V2L) 
  • Safety and Tech
    • Level 2 ADAS (lane-keeping, forward collision, smart cruise, blind-spot assist), 360° camera, six airbags, ABS, TPMS, disc brakes

Production is underway at Hyundai’s Tamil Nadu plant, with deliveries initiated in February 2025.

Now, allow us to indulge you in some classic Strengths & Weaknesses Debate

Strengths

  1. Familiar SUV Form with EV Edge
    The Creta EV retains its ICE sibling’s layout, with thoughtful touches like an aero grille, active air flaps, and redesigned bumper — keeping visual continuity while signalling its electric identity.
  2. Generous Specs Package
    With a 473 km range on the larger battery, Level 2 ADAS, V2L, and a glass sunroof, it stacks nicely against MG ZS EV, Tata Curvv EV, and the Mahindra BE 6.
  3. Competitive Introductory Pricing
    Pricing spans from ₹17.99–23.50 lakh (ex-showroom), making it relatively accessible given the feature set.
  4. Brand & Service Muscle
    Hyundai’s service network and initial charger rollout (10,000+ mapped EV points) provide much-needed reassurance, though real performance must be monitored.

Weaknesses

  1. Late Arrival to a Crowded Game
    The Creta EV faces formidable competition from newer players including Tata Harrier EV, and the Mahindra BE 6.
  2. Limited Fast-Charging Speed
    A near-60-minute fast charge is functional, but lagging behind segment leaders already offering 70–120 kW systems.
  3. Early Quality Glitches Reported
    A lot of owners experienced quality glitches and hindrances especially in the early batch rollouts.
  4. SUV Compromises
    Sharing its ICE sibling’s platform means Creta EV doesn’t benefit from a skateboard EV architecture. Some rivals offer better interior packaging and ride dynamics as a result of born EV platforms.

Our Verdict – Solid, But No Game-Changer

The Hyundai Creta EV is a well-rounded, familiar product that removes barriers for existing Hyundai customers wanting to switch to EV. Its specs, ADAS pack, and brand comfort make it a strong “safe choice.”

Yet, it lacks standout innovation, with no segment-leading charging speeds or breakthrough range and may lag behind when comparing real-world efficiencies and service reliability. In a market rapidly converging on EVs, execution matters as much as components.

For potential buyers valuing a proven brand and conventional SUV feel in electric form, the Creta EV is worth considering. But for tech-savvy buyers chasing next-gen performance or charging convenience, Tata’s Curvv EV, Harrier EV, BE 6, or upcoming VinFast VF 7 may offer more compelling value.