The Hyundai Creta has been handed the N Line treatment in Brazil, leading to speculation this new sportier version of the SUV will find its way to South Africa. Here’s what we know so far…

Hyundai has whipped the covers off its new Creta N Line in Brazil, handing the second-generation version of the SUV sportier styling (inside and out) as well as a model-specific suspension and steering tune.

While Brazil is the first country to receive this version of the Creta, the South Korean automaker says it “may soon be expanded to other markets”.Consideringthe popularity of theCreta in South Africa (and the fact thei20 N Line and Kona N Line are already offered here), we’d speculate there’s at least a possibility of the sportier Creta makingits way to local shores at some point, perhaps a little while after the facelifted Creta range touches down in mid-July 2022. We’ve asked Hyundai Automotive SA for comment on the matter but have yet to hear back.

UPDATE: Sorry, folks. Hyundai Automotive SA says it has no plans to introduce the Creta N Line to the local market.

So, what exactly goes into creating an N Line version of the Creta? Well, the most obvious upgrades come in the form of more aggressively styled front and rear bumpers (with the former featuring a new foglamp design and the latter housing a twin-exit tailpipe), along with chunkier side skirts and a gloss-black finish for the side-mirror caps and roof rails.

In addition, the upgraded Creta gains a unique grille (complete with a darkened Hyundai logo) and a graphite-coloured C-pillar frame, as well as N Line logos on the grille, front fenders and 17-inch alloy wheels. There’s also a bonnet vent positioned just above the grille, while a black-painted roof is available in conjunction with certain exterior hues.

Inside, you’ll find that graphite finish repeated on elements of the steering wheel, dashboard, console and door panels. Furthermore, this version of the Creta upgrades to a new gearshift lever, alloy sports pedals and synthetic leather seats with red stitching (a treatment also handed to the central armrest, door trim and tiller). Finally, the obligatory N Line badges have been dotted around the cabin.

Meanwhile, Hyundai claims to have made “extensive” changes to the Creta’s chassis, firming up the suspension by way of new dampers and springs, and recalibrating the electric power steering system.

So, has Hyundai made any engine upgrades? Well, since this in an N Line product rather than a full-fat N model, there has been zero under-bonnet tinkering. In Brazil, that means a standard version of the firm’s turbocharged 1.0-litre petrol engine remains, driving the front axle through a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Were the Creta N Line be offered in South Africa, we’d expect it to employ the 103 kW/242 Nm turbocharged 1.4-litre petrol engine that already does duty in the flagship model.