Hyundai has established itself as a force to reckon with in the Indian automobile market thanks to consistently strong sales of models like the Creta SUV. Now, the redesigned 2023 Verna mid-size sedan looks to shake things up by challenging Creta.
The refreshed Verna got a series of upgrades like revised exterior styling, new features-rich cabins and updated drivetrains. It aims to provide a compelling alternative to the Creta with its sleek sedan practicality and driving dynamics.
However, challenging a proven hit like the Creta is not an easy feat. Creta continues to satisfy Indian buyers with its strong built quality, spacious interiors and powerful engines.
So, can the new-gen Verna car muster the strength to beat Hyundai’s current champ? Let’s examine how the latest Verna stacks up against Hyundai’s powerhouse Creta SUV.
Creta vs. Verna
While both Creta and Verna have been important nameplates in Hyundai’s domestic lineup for some time now, they do differ notably in body style. The Creta has ridden high on the popularity of the SUV body type, whereas the Verna has championed Hyundai’s executive sedan heritage.
The Creta single handedly catapulted Hyundai to the top of the hotly contested sub-4m SUV segment, according to the brand. Loaded with style and features, it has enjoyed a strong position in the segment for years. Meanwhile, the revamped Verna now aims to achieve similar success among mid-size sedans against rivals like the Honda City and Maruti Suzuki Ciaz.
Creta’s edge against Verna’s freshness
The Creta car proudly wears its SUV identity with muscular wheel arches, rugged cladding and a bold front facade. Its sloping roofline and distinctive Creta lettering at the rear enhance its road presence.
In comparison, the Verna represents a fresh start with avant-garde styling cues like a parametric grille, multi-layer headlamps and sharp character lines that lend it a sporty coupe-like persona. While the Creta relies more on evolution, the Verna brings novelty as a clean-slate design.
Both aim to wow, but Verna’s athletic proportions and coupé-inspired silhouette likely appeal more to younger, fashion-forward buyers. On design alone, it matches Creta’s legacy attributes with a modern edge.
Specification showdown
While both offer powerful yet efficient engine options, the Verna trumps the Creta in terms of handling thanks to its lighter body. Its suspension is finely tuned for spirited driving without compromising ride quality on broken roads.Creta makes up for bulk with best-in-class ground clearance of 198mm, giving it an advantage in off-road situations. Boot space is also higher at 433 litres (expanded to 1,411 litres with rear seats folded).
Technology is where Verna pulls ahead, offering features like a 10.25-inch touchscreen, a connected car app, an air purifier and wireless charging on top-spec trims. Creta still relies on an 8-inch display and lacks some of these modern indulgences in the base variants.
Safety is at par with 6 airbags, ESC, hill-hold and the works. The Verna score a full 5 stars in global NCAP. Best-in-class engine efficiency further tilts the scales in Verna’s favour in the practicality department.
The Verna strengthens its case as the all-rounder with assured resale values, minimal service costs and a more premium onboard experience throughout the range. Creta retains its throne in the bulk-carrying segment.
Practicality evaluation
The tall-riding Creta translates SUV proportions into segment-best third-row space, cargo capacity and overall roominess. Its higher seating also aids visibility.
In contrast, the Verna sacrifices some of this for sleek coupe-like looks. Rear comfort takes a small hit due to lower seating, while its boot is marginally smaller, too. However, the Verna handles tighter spots better with a nimbler footprint.
While the Creta has a practical edge, both offer ample space for families. Ultimately, needs around cargo room or more elegant navigation will decide between tall-boy utility or sedan-styled versatility.
Value proposition
The Creta ranges from INR13 lakh to INR 23.88 lakh, positioning it accessible against the Verna’s INR12.68 lakh to INR 20.02 lakh window. However, standout updates on the Verna, like ventilated seats, large screens and connectivity features, justify a premium.
Its wow factor exceeds expectations at each price point compared to the Creta’s familiar evolution. The Verna appears as a compelling choice for those seeking a revitalised ownership experience without the premium price usually associated.
Conclusion
The overhauled Verna has given Creta a serious challenge across critical metrics like styling, features and driving engagement where it once lagged. The Creta still leads on practicality and pricing which drive volume sales. However, the fresh Verna has narrowed the gap by redefining expectations at its new price points.
This clash represents Hyundai pushing boundaries by challenging even thriving models. In the future, it will be thrilling to see which car ultimately emerges victorious in Hyundai’s battle for in-house segment supremacy.
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