By Malusi Msomi

The Hyundai Creta 1.5 Executive Matte Edition is all about making a statement. Dressed in a striking matte grey finish, it sports gloss black trim, badges, and lettering, giving it a stealthy, urban-ready look. Sitting on 17-inch black alloy wheels, the Creta also features subtly revised front and rear bumpers, while LED daytime running lights complete its bold aesthetic. Just don’t expect to take it through an automatic car wash—matte paint upkeep requires a bit more care.

Familiar cabin with some tech upgrades

Step inside, and the Creta’s cabin feels instantly familiar, though the Executive Matte Edition brings a few extra perks. It now includes a smart key fob with a push-start button and a 10.25-inch TFT infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, keeping things modern and connected. The digital instrument cluster adds a high-tech touch, though some might wish for fewer hard plastics and a more premium feel. It’s worth noting that there’s a fair amount of plastic in the cabin, but we don’t think it’ll be a deal breaker for most.

Under the hood

Powering this urban cruiser is a 1.5L petrol engine, delivering 84 kW and 144 Nm to the front wheels via Hyundai’s IVT (Intelligent Variable Transmission). While it won’t pin you to your seat in acceleration, it gets the job done, offering a smooth and predictable drive. At highway speeds, it settles in comfortably, though it could use a little more punch for overtaking.

Driving impressions

On the road, the Creta 1.5 Executive Matte Edition delivers a comfortable ride, with the CVT gearbox keeping things smooth. Despite its modest power output, it performs well at cruising speeds and impresses with fuel efficiency, averaging 6.5 L/100 km during our test.

Final thoughts

If you’re drawn to the stealthy looks and tech upgrades, the Hyundai Creta 1.5 Executive Matte Edition starts at R524,900. It’s got the style, the features, and the efficiency—but just be ready to treat that matte paint like fine china.