If there is a car brand that has seen one of the biggest evolutions in the last couple of years, it would be Hyundai. The Korean giant has gained a lot of traction with their new models that blend unique looks with tons of modern features.
A car made for you: The Hyundai Creta
Sub-compact crossovers are becoming increasingly popular among Filipino commuters. It is now one of the best-selling car segments, with many options to choose from. Subcompact crossovers are also the new “favorite” for first-time car buyers looking for a car with everything they need and want. Hyundai entered the fray with the introduction of the Hyundai Creta, its own subcompact crossover.
The Creta stands out from competitors by offering more. First, it’s one of the most sporty looking. The Parametric Jewel Pattern Grille is a beauty and adds to that the flawless blending of the car’s DRLs on the grille makes it functional as well.
Complementing the exterior, the interior is also a sight to behold. The Hyundai Creta’s two-tone color scheme levels up the appeal of the vehicle, exuding a sense of finesse as the colors blend perfectly together.
The Creta is powered by a 1.5-litre Smartstream engine. The engine produces 115PS of maximum power and 144Nm of max torque. Mated to Hyundai’s own Intelligent Variable Transmission, the combination delivers responsive and efficient performance.
The built-in technology on the Creta also stand out. First, there are the unique drive modes —Eco to get more mileage, Sports for extra performance, and Normal to get the smoothest and most relaxed driving experience. Additionally, an innovative Smart mode monitors your driving style and road conditions and adjusts the car to find the most optimal driving experience. Plus, a Traction control mode assists the driver by adapting to varying road conditions.
The Creta is also equipped with Hyundai SmartSense, the brand’s own Advance Driver Assist System, that includes features like Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Follow Assist, Rear-cross Traffic Alert, and many more.
The Creta is fitted with tech features, the most notable of which is the massive 10.25-inch Full LCD Meter cluster. The large LCD display gives drivers more information about their drive. Apart from the instrument cluster, there is also an 8-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. A built-in wireless charger ensures that mobile devices can be juiced up on the road.
Beyond the family mover: The Hyundai STARGAZER X
The Hyundai Stargazer X is the bigger, sportier brother of the brand’s highly successful Stargazer MPV. It has a more athletic, and premium feel both outside and inside the car.
One look at the Stargazer X and you’ll immediately see how it has transformed beyond the normal family mover MPV. The exterior sports a new 3D stack grille design that immediately distinguishes itself from the base Stargazer, while the new 17-inch diamond cut alloy wheel cements the sportiness of the car.
Beyond the aesthetic changes, there are also some function changes as well. Most notable of these is the higher ground clearance which jumps from 185mm to 205mm. This higher ground clearance gives added confidence when traversing the metro’s notoriously uneven pavements, as well as unexpected floods.
Moving on to the car’s performance, the Stargazer X is powered by a 1.5-liter Smartstream engine, with a max power output of 113hp and max torque output of 144Nm. This is paired with Hyundai’s Intelligent Variable Transmission for a more powerful yet efficient drive.
The Stargazer X also has a sportier interior. The seats now have red accents. There are also new updated overhead console lamps. And, of course, it retains the class-leading space and comfort.
The most significant upgrades can be found in the is the newly redesigned instrument panel, which is now in a piano black finish. Within the instrument panel is the large Full LCD instrument cluster, beside which can be found the 8-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It now has a wireless charger to keep your smartphone battery fully topped up during long family trips.
The Stargazer X is also equipped with Hyundai SmartSense, including the full suite that consists of Forward Collision-avoidance Assist, Lane Follow Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, High Beam Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Collision-avoidance Assist, and Safe Exit Warning, among others.
Beyond performance towards a greener future: Hyundai Tucson HEV and Hyundai Santa Fe HEV
Hyundai has cemented its place as a leader in electric vehicles and the EV industry. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 are counted among the best EVs in the world, both in performance and comfort. With the success of these two EVs in the country, Hyundai has expanded its electrified lineup with the arrival of the Hyundai Tucson HEV and the Hyundai Santa Fe HEV. Both leverage all the developments Hyundai has made over the years towards both its regular petrol cars and electric vehicles.
Both the Tucson HEV and Santa Fe HEV share the same 1.6 Turbo Smartstream Hybrid engine. The combination of the internal combustion engine and the electric motor gives both vehicles a maximum power output of 235PS and a maximum torque of 367Nm.
Both also have Hyundai’s new e-Motion Drive System. This system enhances the drive of both vehicles by leveraging the engine and the electric motor to enhance traction control, handling, and braking, leading to less vibration and shakes, smoother accelerations, and enhanced overall riding comfort.
Alongside the new driving system, Hyundai has added the very best of its Hyundai SmartSense ADAS to the two vehicles. Included are Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, All-around Parking Distance Warnings, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, a Side Parking Distance Warning, Smart Cruise Control, and the Surround View Monitor.
Both cars are equipped with a 12.3-inch panoramic curved infotainment display, where Hybrid system-related information such as Hybrid battery level, Hybrid Fuel Economy, and Electric Motor Usage can be viewed.
Hyundai has also added some useful features to the two hybrids. The Santa Fe HEV is equipped with two wireless charging pads with built-in cooling fans to keep your phones not only juiced up but also protected from overheating. The Tucson HEV also has this feature, but as the smaller sibling, only has one wireless charging pad instead of two. The Santa Fe HEV also has a unique built-in UV-C Sterilization Tray to keep your valuables sanitized, especially useful for camp-outs and other off-grid family excursions.
Words by Gabriel Pe. Also published in GADGETS MAGAZINE August 2024 Issue.