Hyundai Prepares a New-Generation Creta: The Crossover Set to Underpin Kona and Chevrolet Projects in Latin America

Hyundai gave the Creta a facelift roughly 18 months ago, yet behind the scenes the company is already preparing an all-new generation. This update could trigger a broader reshuffling within Hyundai’s lineup and may also affect several Chevrolet projects tied to joint development efforts.

Why the Creta Is Suddenly in the Spotlight

The reason is straightforward. Hyundai and Chevrolet previously signed a cooperation agreement covering new compact vehicles, including a crossover and models related to the HB20 family. Now, sources say that another key player is about to join this group, significantly expanding the Creta’s role within the overall strategy.

According to Auto Esporte, the next-generation Creta will serve as the foundation not only for a North America–focused SUV but also for the next Hyundai Kona. The Kona—expected to evolve into a compact hybrid crossover—may skip the usual mid-cycle refresh and move straight to a fully new generation, closely aligned with the internal-combustion model currently on sale.

Several details point to this connection:

• A recently spotted prototype carries the SX3 development code;

• The current Brazilian-market Creta is known internally as SX2;

• The upcoming generation is reportedly referred to in Brazil as SX3b.

Traditionally, the Creta has been positioned as a more affordable option for emerging markets. As a result, the local version is expected to retain the overall design while differing in powertrains, specific components, and equipment levels—similar to the way the Brazilian Citroën C3 differs from its European counterpart.

In Brazil, current Creta pricing stands at 215,590 reais for the Ultimate trim and 235,690 reais for the Signature version.

A Concept That Flew Under the Radar

The Crater concept shown at the Los Angeles Auto Show once passed largely unnoticed. However, its silhouette and overall design approach hinted at Hyundai’s future direction for its flagship crossovers. Auto Esporte suggests that Crater will serve as the starting point for the global design language of the next Creta and Kona, including the version produced in Brazil. A global debut of the new model family is not expected too far off—possibly as early as 2027.

A Broader Alliance in Latin America

The partnership announced last August outlines plans to develop five new models for Central and South America, spanning key segments such as hatchbacks, crossovers, compact pickups, and a midsize pickup.

The rollout window is set for 2028–2030. Hyundai is already testing the next-generation HB20 in Brazil, which could offer an early preview of what to expect from a future Chevrolet Onix. Reports also indicate that the Chevrolet Tracker and Montana, along with their Hyundai counterparts, may adopt a Korean-developed platform potentially related to the SX3b project. Altogether, this would amount to six models across three vehicle families.

A Separate GM Pair and a Bet on a Midsize Pickup

General Motors is also expected to develop an additional pair of models independently. According to available information, a new midsize pickup will replace the Chevrolet S10 while simultaneously bringing Hyundai into this growing segment. Electrification is part of the plan as well, with the report noting that even Volkswagen is preparing a hybrid Amarok by 2027, with production slated for Argentina.

Importantly, the partnership is not expected to disrupt existing manufacturing operations. Facilities mentioned include Hyundai’s plant in Piracicaba and Chevrolet’s factories in São Caetano do Sul, Gravataí, and possibly São José dos Campos, along with GM’s engine plant in Joinville.