A car’s performance is as much a matter of necessity as it is of the thrill it provides. So, what are some of the best performance cars, or top sports cars in India? What goes into making a high-performance car model? We compare the Hyundai Creta 2024 and Skoda Kushaq, and see how their top-end variants fare in terms of their performance.
In this article, we will share
- What a performance enthusiast should look for in a car
- Hyundai Creta 2024 vs Skoda Kushaq – a comprehensive analysis of their top-end variants, performance and features
- How to pick the right car for you
What a Performance Enthusiast Looks for in a Car
Here’s what to look for in a car as a performance enthusiast:
- Acceleration and Speed – How quickly a car accelerates, what is its top speed
- Power – How it pulls weight, how is its high speed stability, does it feel strained while going up the hills, or with AC on
- Agility – How it behaves while turning at speeds
- Driving Experience/Handling – Is the gearbox smooth and responsive, how is its steering/braking performance
Performance enthusiasts prioritize a thrilling driving experience above all else. They seek cars with powerful engines that deliver quick acceleration and responsive handling. A well-tuned suspension is crucial for maintaining stability and minimizing body roll during high-speed cornering.
Precise steering and a smooth transmission are also essential for an engaging drive. Additionally, performance enthusiasts appreciate features like sport seats, paddle shifters, and a sporty exhaust note that enhance the overall driving experience.
Why Hyundai Creta 2024 and Skoda Kushaq are Popular
The Hyundai Creta 2024 and Skoda Kushaq have gained popularity among performance enthusiasts due to their impressive engine options and well-balanced chassis.
Both models offer turbocharged petrol engines that deliver strong power output and quick acceleration. The Creta’s 1.4-liter turbo petrol engine produces 140 PS and 242 Nm of torque, while the Kushaq’s 1.5-liter TSI engine puts out 150 PS and 250 Nm of torque. These engines are paired with smooth and responsive automatic transmissions, such as a 7-speed DCT in the Creta and a 6-speed torque converter or 7-speed DSG in the Kushaq.
Both cars also boast well-tuned suspensions that provide a good balance between comfort and handling. The Creta’s suspension is slightly softer, offering a more comfortable ride, while the Kushaq’s suspension is firmer, resulting in better high-speed stability and cornering performance. The steering setups in both cars are precise and communicative, allowing drivers to feel connected to the road.
Performance enthusiasts also appreciate the sporty design elements in the Creta and Kushaq, such as aggressive front grilles, sharp lines, and stylish alloy wheels. The interiors of both cars feature premium materials, sporty accents, and advanced infotainment systems that add to the overall driving experience.
Top-end Variants Shortlist for Hyundai Creta 2024 and Skoda Kushaq
For Hyundai Creta 2024, we have:
| Variant | Price as on 22 April 2024 |
| SX (O) Turbo DCT | ₹20,00,000 |
| SX (O) Diesel AT DT | ₹20,00,000 |
| SX (O) Turbo DCT DT | ₹20,15,000 |
For Skoda Kushaq, we have:
| Variant | Price as on 22 April 2024 |
| 1.5 TSI Matte Edition DSG | ₹19,39,000 |
| 1.5 TSI Style DSG | ₹19,79,000 |
| 1.5 TSI Monte Carlo DSG | ₹20,49,000 |
Hyundai Creta SX (O) Turbo DCT
This variant is an excellent choice for performance enthusiasts, thanks to its powerful 1.4-liter turbo petrol engine and responsive 7-speed DCT transmission. It offers quick acceleration and smooth power delivery. The suspension setup strikes a good balance between comfort and handling, making it suitable for both city driving and occasional spirited drives. If you’re a family-focused car buyer, you can read our comparison of the Creta 2024 with Volkswagen Virtus.
Hyundai Creta SX (O) Diesel AT DT
While diesel engines may not be the first choice for performance enthusiasts, this variant’s 1.5-liter diesel engine delivers strong torque, making it a good option for those who prioritize effortless highway cruising. The 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission ensures smooth gear shifts. The dual-tone exterior adds a touch of sportiness to the overall look.
Hyundai Creta SX (O) Turbo DCT DT
This variant combines the performance of the 1.4-liter turbo petrol engine with the visual appeal of a dual-tone exterior. It offers the same driving dynamics as the regular SX (O) Turbo DCT variant, with the added benefit of a more distinctive appearance. The dual-tone color scheme is sure to turn heads and appeal to performance enthusiasts who want their car to stand out. If you value a car’s design and style, you can check out our comparison of the Creta 2024 with MG Astor.
Skoda Kushaq 1.5 TSI Matte Edition DSG
This special edition variant of the Kushaq is powered by a potent 1.5-liter TSI engine that delivers 150 PS and 250 Nm of torque. The 7-speed DSG transmission offers lightning-fast gear changes, making it a delight for performance enthusiasts. The matte exterior finish adds a unique and sporty touch to the car’s appearance.
Skoda Kushaq 1.5 TSI Style DSG
The Style variant of the Kushaq 1.5 TSI offers the same performance credentials as the Matte Edition, with a powerful engine and quick-shifting DSG transmission. It boasts a well-tuned suspension that provides excellent high-speed stability and nimble handling. The interior is well-appointed with premium materials and advanced features, enhancing the overall driving experience. We have also compared the Kushaq and Creta 2024 for tech-savvy gadget lovers.
Skoda Kushaq 1.5 TSI Monte Carlo DSG
The Monte Carlo edition of the Kushaq 1.5 TSI is the most performance-oriented variant in the lineup. It features a sporty exterior with blacked-out elements and special badging. The 1.5-liter TSI engine and 7-speed DSG transmission deliver exhilarating performance. The firm suspension setup and low-profile tires contribute to exceptional handling and cornering capabilities.
Our Pick for the Best Variant Among Hyundai Creta 2024 and Skoda Kushaq for Performance Enthusiasts
After careful consideration, we recommend the Skoda Kushaq 1.5 TSI Monte Carlo DSG as the best variant for performance enthusiasts. This variant stands out due to its powerful 1.5-liter TSI engine, which produces 150 PS and 250 Nm of torque. The engine’s strong mid-range punch and quick-revving nature make it a joy to drive. The 7-speed DSG transmission complements the engine perfectly, offering lightning-fast gear changes and smooth operation.
The Monte Carlo edition’s sporty exterior design, with blacked-out elements and special badging, adds to its appeal for performance enthusiasts. The car’s firm suspension setup and low-profile tires contribute to its excellent handling characteristics. The Kushaq Monte Carlo feels planted and stable at high speeds, while also offering nimble and precise cornering abilities.
Inside the cabin, the Monte Carlo edition features sporty accents and premium materials that create an engaging driving environment. The well-bolstered seats provide excellent support during spirited driving, and the flat-bottom steering wheel adds to the car’s sporty feel. The advanced infotainment system and digital instrument cluster keep the driver informed and entertained.
Overall, the Skoda Kushaq 1.5 TSI Monte Carlo DSG offers the best combination of performance, handling, and sporty design elements, making it the top choice for performance enthusiasts looking for an exciting driving experience in a compact SUV package.
The Top 3 Choices
- Skoda Kushaq 1.5 TSI Monte Carlo DSG
- Hyundai Creta SX (O) Turbo DCT
- Skoda Kushaq 1.5 TSI Style DSG
| Attributes | Skoda Kushaq 1.5 TSI Monte Carlo DSG | Hyundai Creta SX (O) Turbo DCT | Skoda Kushaq 1.5 TSI Style DSG |
| Engine – Displacement (cc) | 1498 | 1482 | 1498 |
| Engine – Power (BHP) | 147.51 | 157.57 | 147.51 |
| Engine – Torque (Nm) | 250 | 253 | 250 |
| Transmission – Auto Type | DCT | DCT | DCT |
| Top Speed (km/h) | 150.82 | 18.4 | 150.82 |
| Touchscreen size | 10 | 10.25 | 10 |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- The Kushaq Monte Carlo and Style variants boast a 1.5-liter TSI engine that delivers strong performance figures, with 147.51 BHP and 250 Nm of torque. The Creta SX (O) Turbo DCT is not far behind, with its 1.4-liter turbo petrol engine producing an impressive 157.57 BHP and 253 Nm of torque. These engines provide ample power for spirited driving and effortless highway cruising.
- All three variants come equipped with advanced touchscreen infotainment systems, with the Creta offering a slightly larger 10.25-inch screen compared to the Kushaq’s 10-inch unit.
- Performance enthusiasts will appreciate the well-tuned suspensions and precise steering setups in these variants, which contribute to their engaging handling characteristics. The Kushaq Monte Carlo, in particular, stands out with its sporty exterior design elements and firm suspension setup, making it the most performance-focused option among the three.
The Skoda Kushaq 1.5 TSI Monte Carlo DSG and Style DSG variants, along with the Hyundai Creta SX (O) Turbo DCT, offer the most appealing packages for performance enthusiasts. All three variants come equipped with powerful turbocharged petrol engines and quick-shifting dual-clutch transmissions. These variants offer the perfect blend of performance, features, and driving dynamics that performance enthusiasts seek.
If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.