Dual Drive

There is no shortage of Hyundai Cretas on Indian roads. Most will tell you its popularity stems from how well-equipped it is, how it offers a multitude of powertrain options, and how reliable it is. While all of those may be true, the single, most powerful reason for the Creta’s unabated success is that it has always offered the Indian buyer the power of choice. There is a Creta for everyone – and now, there is one for the driving enthusiast too: the Creta N Line.

But if you thought the N Line models are the only Hyundais for petrolheads, you’ve jumped to the wrong conclusion. Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 is proof of why all- electric vehicles, too, can be an entertaining drive, and why they are very much part of the global motoring future. So engaging are both models that, when they end up in longterm vehicle fleets, they cause several writers to lock horns on who gets to take them home for the weekend, on pretty much every weekend.

Gold line

The Creta N Line employs a potent 160hp, 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine. And to offer buyers the power of choice, the N Line is available with a 6-speed manual transmission, in addition to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic.

In terms of outright performance, the Creta N Line DCT can accelerate to 100kph in just 8.9 seconds. The four-cylinder engine delivers power in a smooth-yet- delicious manner. Once the turbo spools, the 253Nm of torque means executing an overtake is easy-peasy, and maintaining highway speeds is a breeze. The steady power delivery makes the Creta feel almost deceptively fast. It is refined, yet razor sharp in its responses.

The quick shifts enabled by the manual transmission are satisfying, but the Creta N Line is equally as involving to drive when paired with the dual-clutch automatic. The DCT responds quickly to throttle and shift inputs. The DCT version also brings drive and traction modes to the table, which alter the throttle response and steering weight to the driver’s liking, and it certainly adds to the overall drive experience.

Hyundai has adjusted the Creta’s suspension damping and steering tuning for a sportier feel in the N Line, which provides a more engaging and confident driving experience compared to the standard model. The ride quality is well-balanced, remaining stable at high speeds and handling rough roads with aplomb. Around corners, the Creta N Line offers good grip and the steering provides a clear sense of the front wheels’ activity.

Take 5

Some would probably expect this level of driver engagement from a Creta N Line, but many would doubtless be pleasantly surprised by what an Ioniq 5 offers to a keen driver. The Ioniq 5’s electric motor produces a substantial 217hp and 350Nm of torque. With heaps of torque available from the get-go, the Ioniq 5 never feels lacking for power in any situation. It matches the acceleration of many internal combustion engine cars in this price range, reaching 100kph from a standstill in 7.74 seconds and attaining a top speed of 190kph.

More importantly, the Ioniq 5 will make most enthusiasts feel right at home with how it behaves on the road. The Ioniq 5’s drive modes adjust part-throttle responses, making acceleration more subdued in Eco mode and more responsive in Sport mode. However, when the accelerator is fully pressed, the Ioniq 5 accelerates smartly and keenly in each drive mode. The paddle shifters allow the driver to choose from different levels of regenerative braking. Pulling the left paddle can bring the Ioniq 5 to a complete stop without using the brake pedal – a novel experience that can also become addictive over time. Additionally, the brake pedal effectively integrates both regenerative and mechanical braking, providing a smooth and gradual braking experience. What’s more, the Ioniq 5’s 72.6kWh battery will make sure long drives are longer than ever.

Thanks to its long wheelbase and wheels pushed right out to the corners of the car, the Ioniq 5 feels delightfully planted at high speeds, and drives with a sense of maturity. The steering offers a satisfying amount of weight and responsiveness, making it enjoyable to drive. Despite being different in their approach and positioning, the Creta N Line and Ioniq 5 carry forward all the traits associated with Hyundais– they’re forward- looking in their design and appearance, fully loaded in terms of technology and have the ability to put a grin on the face of every person who gets behind their wheel.

Also see:
Hyundai Creta N Line review: Sporty Intentions

Hyundai produces Ioniq 5 at new AI factory