Hyundai Philippines has been riding a wave of success, largely due to the strong sales of the Stargazer MPV and the Creta subcompact SUV. The latter has become a favorite among Filipino drivers, thanks to its versatility, modern styling, and competitive pricing. However, in 2025, the Philippine market still offers the pre-facelift version of the Creta, while other regions have moved forward with the updated model.
The facelifted Creta was launched in India over a year ago, bringing significant updates in design, powertrains, and technology. Now, with Indonesia debuting the facelifted version just a few days ago last January 9, 2025, could the Philippine market be next in line to receive these much awaited updates?
Why the facelift matters
The 2024 facelifted Creta refines an already successful formula. It introduces Hyundai’s latest design language, with a bold front fascia featuring a wider grille, sleeker LED headlights, and a reshaped bumper that lends the SUV a more premium, modern look. At the rear, connecting LED tail lamps and sharper body lines further elevate its appeal.
Under the hood, the facelifted Creta offers a range of powertrains tailored to different markets. The Indian-market model includes a Smartstream 1.5-liter MPi gas engine similar to ours, delivering 115 PS and 144 Nm of torque. A more powerful 1.5-liter turbocharged GDi engine generates 160 PS and 253 Nm of torque, while the 1.5-liter U2 CRDi diesel engine produces 116 PS and a robust 250 Nm of torque, offering excellent efficiency and torque delivery for longer drives. These engines are paired with options such as a 6-speed manual, an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), or a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), ensuring both efficiency and engaging performance. It remains to be seen which engine option will be viable as an update for our market, but that turbocharged mill sure seems like an exciting option.
Inside, the new Creta offers upgraded technology and materials. Higher trims feature a 10.25-inch HD navigation system, while standard trims include an 8-inch touchscreen with seamless smartphone connectivity. Additional comfort features like ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and dual-zone automatic climate control make the Creta more appealing for daily drives and long journeys. Rear passengers benefit from increased legroom, multiple charging ports, and refined materials that enhance the cabin’s premium feel.
Safety is another area where the facelifted Creta shines. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) include features like lane-keeping assist, blind-spot collision-avoidance assist, and rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist. Higher trims may also offer a 360-degree camera and forward collision warning with auto-braking, providing drivers with greater confidence on the road.
A competitive edge
The Indonesian launch of the facelifted Creta is in line with Hyundai’s strategic focus on Southeast Asia. Given the strong demand for subcompact SUVs in the Philippines and the increasing competition from tech-heavy Chinese brands, the facelifted Creta would serve as a timely update to Hyundai’s local lineup. It would not only keep the Creta competitive but also attract new buyers seeking the latest in design, performance, and technology.
The facelift also introduces an N-Line variant in certain markets, designed to deliver a more dynamic driving experience. This version features a sport-tuned suspension, sporty exterior elements like a blacked-out grille and red accents, and exclusively comes with the 1.5-liter turbo petrol engine. Inside, the N-Line boasts exclusive upholstery with contrast stitching and metal-finished pedals for that enhanced appeal.
Meanwhile, Hyundai has just recently launched all-electric Creta in select markets. The Creta Electric (as it’s called) claims to offer a driving range of approximately 470 kilometers on a single charge, and can go from 10% to 80% charge in just 4 hours from the included 11-kW wall charger.
Equipped with advanced charging capabilities, it promises shorter downtime and convenience for eco-conscious buyers. The styling on the Creta Electric adds touches that align it with its IONIQ brethren in the form of pixel-design bumpers, low-rolling resistance tires, and an active air flap that manages cooling and aerodynamics.
Coming soon?
With its updated design, enhanced features, and diverse powertrain options, the facelifted Creta is well-positioned to maintain Hyundai’s success in the subcompact SUV segment. The recent Indonesian launch suggests that the Philippine market could soon follow, and introducing this refreshed model would not only bolster Hyundai Philippines’ lineup but also meet the evolving demands of Filipino drivers. All signs point to the facelifted Creta being just around the corner, and its arrival can’t come soon enough for those eager to experience Hyundai’s latest innovations.