Hyundai Creta Variant Discontinuation Hints at Upcoming Facelift 

The SX Tech and SX(O) variants of the Creta as of May 2026. This move has fueled strong speculation that a facelift or a significant update is coming soon. While Hyundai has not officially confirmed a new launch, the removal of these mid-to-high trims has streamlined the lineup from nine variants down to seven. The remaining variants are E, EX, EX(O), S(O), SX, SX Premium, and King.

The most significant impact of this change is on the availability of Level 2 ADAS, which stands for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems. Previously, ADAS was available on the mid-spec SX Tech variant. This made advanced safety features accessible at a relatively affordable price of around ₹15.69 lakh to ₹17.22 lakh. But now, ADAS has become exclusive to the range-topping King variant. The King variant starts at ₹17.27 lakh. This means the entry price for ADAS on the Creta has gone up by roughly ₹1.48 lakh. If you want features like adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and autonomous emergency braking, you now have to buy the most expensive Creta.

The removal of the SX(O) variant has also simplified the lineup. The SX(O) used to be the flagship variant, but when the Creta got a facelift in 2024, the King trim became the new top-spec. Now, the King trim is the only variant that offers all engine and gearbox options. The SX(O) had offered a middle ground for buyers who wanted many premium features without going all the way to the King. Removing it has left a gap in the lineup.

Despite the variant cuts, the mechanical options remain unchanged. The Creta continues with its three 1.5-litre engines. The first is a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine that makes 115 horsepower and 144 Nm of torque. It is available with a 6-speed manual or an IVT automatic. The second is a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine that makes 160 horsepower and 253 Nm of torque. It is available only with a 7-speed DCT automatic. The third is a 1.5-litre diesel engine that makes 116 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque. It is available with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic.

There are several signs that point to a facelift coming soon. First, the variant rationalization often happens when a new model is about to launch. Simplifying the lineup reduces inventory complexity for dealers. Second, heavy dealer discounts of up to ₹1.05 lakh are currently being offered on both petrol and diesel versions of the Creta. This is a common tactic to clear existing stock before a new model arrives. Third, reports have recently spotted 2027 Hyundai Creta models being tested with “boxier” designs and more upright front ends. All these indicators suggest that a facelift or a new generation of the Creta is on the horizon.

If you are thinking of buying a Hyundai Creta now, you should do so if you want to take advantage of the heavy discounts of up to ₹1.05 lakh, if you are okay with the current seven-variant lineup, and if you do not need ADAS on a mid-spec variant. The current Creta is still a very good SUV with a proven engine lineup. You can also consider the Creta Summer Edition, which was introduced in April 2026 and remains on sale across multiple trims. This edition adds some extra features and cosmetic touches.

You should wait for the facelift if you want the latest design with a boxier look and a more upright front end, if you want ADAS to be available on more affordable variants again, or if you want to see what new features Hyundai adds in the update. However, the facelift will likely not have the same level of discounts as the outgoing model.