Currently available only in the diesel SX+ trim, Hyundai will extend the use of the six-speed gearbox to a lower-spec diesel Creta and a petrol-engined model as well. The petrol automatic Creta, like its diesel automatic sibling, will use a six-speed torque converter automatic gearbox paired to the 1.6-litre petrol engine. The features of the petrol automatic Creta will mirror those of the top-spec automatic diesel variant as it too will be based on the SX+ trim.
Hyundai will also be introducing a lower S+ trim of the diesel Creta. Being a level down from the SX+ trim, the S+ diesel automatic misses out on many features such as keyless entry and go, climate control, diamond cut alloy wheels, projector headlamps and split folding rear seat.
The carmaker also has plans to introduce a four-speed automatic gearbox to its i20 range, which will make it better equipped to compete with the Jazz and Baleno – both of which offer the option of an automatic CVT gearbox. However, it is undisclosed as to which i20 variant will get this option.
The Creta has become a hot favourite for Indian customers with the SUV having crossed one lakh bookings in less than a year of its launch. The automaker had announced a hike in production of the SUV from 10,000 units a month to 13,000, with 10,000 dedicated for the Indian market to help lower waiting periods which had gone up to 10 months in the initial months.
The i20, although not as popular, has been a strong seller for Hyundai, impressing customers with its spacious cabin and lengthy equipment list.