Hyundai’s third-generation Creta continues to reveal more of itself as testing continues. After the SUV was first spotted testing in South Korea earlier this week, fresh spy shots have now surfaced showing the interiors, offering a strong indication of how significantly the midsize SUV is evolving for its next generation. This comes barely two years after the second-generation Creta facelift debuted, underlining just how crucial the Creta remains to Hyundai’s India and global strategy.
All-New Cabin Design Confirmed
The latest images confirm that the upcoming Creta will feature a completely redesigned interior layout. While the dashboard itself remains camouflaged, the overall cabin design looks cleaner and more contemporary, suggesting a more horizontal, premium-oriented layout similar to Hyundai’s newer global SUVs. The inside door handle design is new, appearing simpler and more elegant, pointing towards a more mature and upmarket interior theme.
Black Leatherette Seats, Familiar Hyundai-Kia Design Cues
The test vehicle is seen with black leatherette upholstery, likely reserved for higher variants. Notably, the front seat headrest design closely resembles that of the new-generation Kia Seltos, which was recently launched in India.
One of the most noticeable improvements is at the rear. The next-gen Creta appears to offer more legroom than before, indicating a possible increase in wheelbase or better packaging. Crucially, all three rear passengers now get adjustable headrests, an upgrade over some current variants and a positive step for both comfort and safety. The presence of rear AC vents continues, ensuring improved cooling for second-row occupants.
Exterior Changes Still Heavily Camouflaged
While the interiors are now partially visible, the exterior of the next-gen Creta remains heavily camouflaged. Earlier spy shots indicate a more upright silhouette, a slightly longer body and a more squared-off stance compared to the current model. Flush-fitting camouflage around the front and rear suggests a full generational redesign, rather than a minor facelift. Expect sharper lighting elements, a reworked grille and a more modern overall design when camouflage eventually comes off.
Platform, Engines and Hybrid Possibility
Internally codenamed SX3, the third-gen Creta is expected to be manufactured in India, most likely at Hyundai’s Tamil Nadu facility. For the Indian market, Hyundai is likely to retain familiar powertrains initially, including:
– 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol
– 1.5-litre turbo-petrol
– 1.5-litre diesel
These are expected to be paired with manual and automatic gearbox options. However, a major addition could be a strong hybrid powertrain. Hyundai has already indicated its intent to expand hybrid offerings in India, and the next-gen Creta is widely expected to benefit from this strategy to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.
Bigger, Safer and More Tech-Heavy
The next-generation Creta is also expected to move to a more advanced platform, potentially shared with the new-gen Kia Seltos. This should bring increased use of high-strength steel, improved structural rigidity and enhanced crash safety. In terms of features, the SUV is likely to take a big leap forward with larger screens, upgraded ADAS, improved connected car tech and more safety equipment, helping it stay competitive against newer rivals.
Launch Timeline and What’s Next
While Hyundai earlier indicated a Q1 2027 launch, sources suggest the company could prep one the launch to around Diwali 2026, especially with competition intensifying rapidly in the midsize SUV segment. For Hyundai, the next-gen Creta isn’t just another update — it’s a critical model aimed at defending its decade-long dominance in one of India’s most competitive SUV segments.
