GaadiWaadi –
Both Hyundai Creta and Kona to get a complete redesign and an all-new platform for their third generation, with the latter in the lead
The mid-size SUV segment has seen a barrage of new launches since the final quarter of 2025, but Hyundai is staying put, continuing with the second-gen Creta. However, in the background, the company is working on an all-new Creta, internally referred to by the codename ‘SX3’.
In recent months, it has come to light that the ‘SX3’ codename is used for the third-gen Hyundai Kona as well, which is also currently under development. Spy shots suggest that both upcoming SUVs would be similar in size and feature a similar design inspired by the Hyundai Crater concept that broke cover at the 2025 LA Auto Show in November.
The Kona and Creta belong to the same segment, but so far, Hyundai has designed and developed them separately, targeting the former at developed markets and the latter at emerging markets. Besides being too soft-looking for a country like India, where the majority of SUV customers prefer a butch character, the Kona’s more sophisticated engineering made it too costly.
Also Read: Hyundai Model Wise April 2026 Sales; Creta, Venue, Exter, Verna, Alcazar
In the third generation, it appears Hyundai has consolidated the Kona and Creta into a single product, although it may retain both nameplates for their respective markets. Both models will share the K3 platform, which currently underpins the second-gen Kia Seltos.
According to a report from South Korean publication The Elec, the next-gen Hyundai Kona could be unveiled in the second half of 2026. Another South Korean publication, Nate, states the Hyundai SX3 is scheduled to enter production in 2027, which aligns with speculations in the local media, which point to a Q3 2027 launch. Interestingly, both reports mention plans for electrification, with The Elec’s article stating plans for a hybrid variant of the next-gen Kona. Local reports claim that the next-gen Creta will also have a hybrid variant.
Also Read: Hyundai Confirms New Midsize SUV & Compact EV For Launch This FY
While the Hyundai Creta Hybrid will likely employ a 1.5-litre petrol engine and come only in a FWD configuration, the next-gen Hyundai Kona Hybrid should feature a 1.6-litre petrol engine and come in FWD and e-AWD configurations. It is safe to assume that both next-gen Creta and next-gen Kona will also receive a pure electric variant, beginning with the latter.
The next-gen Hyundai Creta and next-gen Hyundai Kona should be about 4.5 metres long, 1.8 metres wide, and 1.6 metres tall, and have a 2.7-metre wheelbase. Both models should feature a slim digital instrument cluster and a tablet-style large touchscreen infotainment system, both running a new Pleos Connect software based on the Android Automotive Operating System (AAOS). The Indian model may have a slightly different design and a few market-specific features, such as ventilated front seats and a boss mode on the powered front passenger seat.
The post Next-Gen Hyundai Creta And Kona To Be Based On The Same Platform appeared first on Gaadiwaadi.com – Latest Car & Bike News by Team GaadiWaadi.