Can the 2022 Hyundai Creta N-Line beat the MG ZS?

Hyundai reveals the sporty Creta N-Line for the Brazilian market

We already know that Hyundai will be relaunching under a new distributor this year. Aside from the fact that the company will be called Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc. (HMPI), we also know that they will be launching various models like the all-new Staria, Tucson, Creta, and the facelifted Santa Fe.

An insider also confirmed to us that they will launch new nameplates in the country that include the Custo MPV and the Casper micro-SUV. If that's not enough, our source also mentioned to us that Hyundai will be bringing N-Line models in the future, starting with the next-generation Elantra.

With HMPI set to launch N-Line models in the country, we can't help but imagine what other sporty models the automaker will bring. Just take a look at the 2022 Creta N-Line that recently debuted in Brazil.

Based on the pre-facelift version that is still being sold in select markets, the crossover comes with a redesigned front bumper, a more aggressive grille that connects the split LED headlights, and a larger air intake. Also present on the dressed-up crossover are 17-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, two-tone exterior paint, an integrated diffuser at the back, and N badges all around.

Open the doors, and the Creta N Line comes with an all-black upholstery that's paired with red contrast stitching, gloss black accents, and embroidered 'N' emblems on the seats, gear selector, and steering wheel. When it comes to features, the N Line crossover has dual-zone climate control, cooled seats, an electronic parking brake, drive-mode select, and full-leather seats.

In the Brazilian market, the Creta N-Line is only available with a 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine that makes 120 PS and 172 Nm of torque. Power is then sent to the front wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission with manual select.

For peace of mind, the Creta N-Line is brimming with safety features. These include anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, brake assist, front/rear parking sensors, electronic stability control, traction control, tire pressure monitoring, and 6 airbags.

The sporty crossover is also fitted with Hyundai SmartSense. The system provides the Creta N-Line with intelligent driver aids such as an autonomous braking system, lane-keeping assist, adaptive high-beams function, intelligent voice command, and even a driver fatigue detector.

With HMPI set to reveal various models, we're hoping that the automaker expands its N-Line variants from just the Elantra to the Creta as well. For now, all we can do is wait until Hyundai officially relaunches in the country under a new distributor.