Are you an SUV enthusiast who is in the market for something that can offer power, prestige, and features? If yes, then most likely you have considered the all-new 2024 Hyundai Creta. Well, this is a very good SUV currently in the market. However, what if we told you that you can get an even more premium SUV for less than that of the Creta? You’d say, what are we talking about, right? Well, we thought that we should tell you that for a lot less than the price of the new Creta, you can get your hands on a Honda CR-V—the flagship SUV from the Japanese carmaker.
For the sake of this comparison, we have considered the Honda CR-V 2.4 AT AWD AVN variant. You can get this particular variant from the used car market for under Rs 12-14 lakh in very mint condition. And for the Hyundai Creta, we have chosen the 1.5 Turbo DCT variant. Now, today, we will compare both of these SUVs to find out which one makes more sense in terms of value, performance, and overall ownership experience.
Maintenance and Ownership Costs
First off, let’s talk about the maintenance and ownership costs of these two SUVs. A used Honda CR-V’s biggest advantage is its reputation for reliability and low maintenance costs. The CR-V, with its 2.4-liter naturally aspirated engine, has a proven track record of durability.
Regular maintenance, including oil changes, brake pad replacements, and routine servicing, typically costs between Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000 for five years. This is relatively affordable, considering the CR-V’s original premium positioning and Honda’s well-established service network.
On the other hand, the 2024 Hyundai Creta 1.5 Turbo DCT, as it is a new car, gets the first two services free. After this, the service costs at the 3rd and 4th services are Rs 4,800 each. So the average cost of maintenance is Rs 10,000 to Rs 20,000 for 5 years.
It has to be noted that the DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) may require more careful maintenance. This is important as regular use in stop-and-go traffic can lead to overheating issues. Over the long term, maintenance costs could also potentially increase as the vehicle ages, particularly concerning the DCT.
Fuel Efficiency
Now, another major expenditure when it comes to car buying is fuel cost. The used Honda CR-V, with its 2.4-liter engine, offers a real-world mileage of around 8-10 kmpl in city driving conditions and 11-12 kmpl on highways.
While these figures may seem low compared to modern standards, they are consistent with vehicles of its class and engine size. Given the CR-V’s 58-liter fuel tank, monthly fuel costs for an average user could range from Rs 8,000 to Rs 10,000, depending on driving habits and fuel prices.
Now, it may seem like the fuel efficiency of the CR-V is not that great, but it has to be noted that you will save a lot of money you would have to pay upfront for a new car.
On the other hand, the Hyundai Creta 1.5 Turbo DCT is more fuel-efficient. According to the company, this particular variant offers a mileage of 18 kmpl. However, the real-world mileage could be around 13-15 kmpl in city driving and 16-18 kmpl on highways.
With a smaller 50-liter fuel tank, the Creta’s monthly fuel costs are estimated to be between Rs 6,000 to Rs 7,500. It has to be noted that while the savings on fuel may appear significant over time, they are somewhat offset by the initial cost of purchasing a new vehicle.
Safety
For car buyers today, safety has become a non-negotiable aspect of any vehicle purchase, which is a very good thing. The Honda CR-V, although older, comes equipped with international safety standards that were ahead of its time when it was launched.
It includes features like dual front airbags, side and curtain airbags, ABS with EBD, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), and Hill Start Assist (HSA). It is known for its solid build quality and safety features that were designed to meet rigorous global standards.
The Hyundai Creta, being a newer model, benefits from the latest advancements in automotive safety technology. It includes modern features like Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), and Blind Spot Detection (BSD).
Additionally, the Creta comes with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) as well. The Creta also comes with six airbags as standard. So in terms of safety, both cars stand neck and neck.
Features and Comfort
The Honda CR-V, even as a used vehicle, offers a premium experience with its leather upholstery, electrically adjustable seats, dual-zone climate control, and a single-pane sunroof. The AVN (Audio Video Navigation) system, while not as advanced as today’s standards, still provides a decent level of convenience with a touchscreen interface and navigation capabilities. The overall build quality and materials used in the CR-V are of a high standard, reflecting its position as a premium SUV.
The Hyundai Creta, however, takes comfort and convenience to another level with its modern, tech-savvy interior. It features a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Hyundai’s BlueLink connected car technology.
The Creta also includes ventilated seats, wireless charging, a panoramic sunroof, and a host of other features. It has to be noted that while the Creta’s interior might feel more modern and gadget-friendly, the CR-V’s cabin, on the other hand, offers a sense of durability and luxury that is hard to match.
The Financial Side
Now, the most important aspect of this comparison is the price. A used Honda CR-V 2.4 AT AWD AVN from 2017 can be had for Rs 12-14 lakh, which, considering the size and the premium feel that it offers, is very well justified. You can find some even cheaper options if you can compromise on the model year and condition.
As for the Hyundai Creta 1.5 Turbo DCT, this variant costs Rs 19.99 lakh. For the price, you get peace of mind and a well-built car. However, it has to be noted that the Creta competes in the mid-size SUV segment. This means that it is smaller and less premium than the Honda CR-V.
Conclusion: Wise or Otherwise?
Choosing between a used Honda CR-V and a brand-new Hyundai Creta Turbo DCT ultimately depends on your priorities. If you value long-term reliability, a proven safety record, and the ability to invest savings wisely, the CR-V stands out as a compelling choice.
However, if modern technology, fuel efficiency, and the peace of mind of owning a new vehicle are your top priorities, the Creta Turbo DCT may be the better option. Both vehicles offer a unique blend of advantages, making them suitable for different types of buyers. So carefully consider your budget, driving needs, and long-term plans before making a decision.
