Hyundai is working on the next-generation Creta, internally known as SX3, and the SUV has already been spotted testing in India and overseas. Based on recent spy shots, fresh digital renders now offer an early glimpse at how the production-spec model could look. The new-generation Creta is expected to arrive in India in 2027

New Creta Could Get a Much Boxier Design

The renders suggest a significant departure from the rounded styling of the current Creta. The upcoming SUV is imagined with a more upright and squared-off profile, a flatter bonnet and sharper body surfacing.

At the front, a slim lighting element runs across the width of the SUV, while the primary headlamps appear to sit lower on the fascia. Large black inserts and vertically positioned lighting elements at the corners give the front end a more muscular appearance.

The side profile is expected to undergo an equally noticeable transformation. The rendered SUV features squared wheel arches, sharper character lines, a more angular glasshouse and a stronger C-pillar treatment. Roof rails and black lower-body cladding further enhance its rugged appearance.

At the rear, the renders show connected-looking lighting elements extending across a dark panel, giving the SUV a wider visual stance. The international version depicted in some renders uses KONA lettering, while the Indian model is expected to retain the Creta nameplate.

Hyundai’s Art of Steel Design Could Influence the New Creta

Hyundai's newer design direction places greater emphasis on geometric forms, strong surfaces and the visual expression of metal. The company describes its Art of Steel philosophy as a design approach inspired by the natural formability and strength of steel.

The recently revealed Tucson and Hyundai's newer concepts provide an indication of how this design direction is evolving. The combination of sharper geometry, stronger shoulders, upright proportions and distinctive lighting signatures could influence future Hyundai SUVs, including the next-generation Creta.

 

Bigger Changes Expected Inside the Cabin

The next-generation Creta is also expected to receive a completely redesigned interior. Recent spy images have shown a larger free-standing central touchscreen and a slimmer digital driver display, with Hyundai's Pleos Connect infotainment platform expected to play an important role.

The dashboard, steering wheel, centre console and door trims are expected to receive a comprehensive redesign. Hyundai could also add more connected features and safety technology as part of the new-generation update.

Hybrid Powertrain Could Be a Major Addition

One of the biggest changes expected with the next-generation Creta is the introduction of a strong-hybrid powertrain. Reports indicate that Hyundai is developing a hybrid setup based on a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. The existing 1.5-litre petrol, 1.5-litre turbo-petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engines are also expected to remain part of the lineup, although final specifications are yet to be confirmed.

The hybrid version would allow the Creta to compete more directly with hybrid SUVs such as the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder.

2027 Hyundai Creta Launch in India

The third-generation Hyundai Creta is expected to launch in India in 2027. The model will reportedly use Hyundai's newer K3 platform, while the international version is expected to share its architecture with the next-generation Kona in applicable markets.

With a substantially redesigned exterior, a technology-focused cabin and the possibility of a hybrid powertrain, the new Creta could represent one of the most significant updates to Hyundai's popular midsize SUV in India