Hyundai Creta: Nailed it, but became leader

When the Hyundai creta It was launched in Brazil at the end of 2016, many people were twisting their noses at its design and questioning its potential for success. 

Contrary to expectations, this compact SUV on the ground has won the hearts of Brazilians, and has consolidated itself as a sales leader in its category. 

We will show you how Crete has overcome initial criticism and evolved over the years, adapting to consumer trends and preferences, culminating in surprising market success.

First impressions and aesthetic controversy

The Hyundai Creta reached the market with a design that quickly became a topic of debate. 

Initially, its design was considered by many as unconventional and even controversial, especially the front part that presented bold features and an aesthetic that divided opinions. 

Images of the model were circulated online even before its official launch in Brazil, and the reaction was not unanimous: while some admired its audacity, others considered it “ugly for chuchu”.

As Crete was introduced into Brazilian streets, its presence began to be more accepted. 

A Hyundai, despite being aware of criticism, is late in acting. 

In 2021, the second generation of Crete was introduced with a series of modifications that softened some of the most criticized aspects, creating a remodeled front that better harmonized with the expectations of the Brazilian market. 

This update, part of a broader facelift, reflects the brand's new global identity, adopting lines that recall other successful Hyundai models, such as the Santa Cruz pickup.

The controversial design and its versions

The Hyundai Creta has undergone a significant evolution in its design across generations, reflecting Hyundai's response to criticism and the public's tastes. 

The first generation was characterized by a high frontal and a prominent parrilla that was not common at that time, which resulted in divided opinions. 

However, it was the second generation, launched in 2021, which really shook up the market with a more radical design.

In this second generation, the Crete presented a completely redesigned front, characterized by a large front grille that integrated the headlights in a futuristic way. 

A parrilla, with a waterfall boss that became a Hyundai visual signature, was flanked by divided headlights that gave the vehicle a more modern and aggressive appearance. 

Furthermore, the fog lights are placed in a way that complements the bold design, while the back also receives updates to align with the new aesthetic language of the brand.

The public's reaction to these changes was initially mixed. 

While some consumers appreciated the innovative and distinctive design, others still preferred the more conservative lines of other models available on the market. 

However, with time, acceptance grew, especially when consumers began to see the vehicle in person on the streets and at dealerships.

The impact on initial sales was notable.. 

Despite initial criticism of the design, Crete continued to thrive, indicating that many consumers were willing to override the brand's functionality and reputation over aesthetic controversy. 

This demonstrates that, even though the design can be a critical factor, the decision to purchase on a regular basis encompasses a broader evaluation of the vehicle's qualities.