Creta Electric vs ZS EV
The electric SUV segment in India has witnessed an exciting battle between two strong contenders – the newly launched Hyundai Creta Electric and the established MG ZS EV. Both vehicles represent the growing acceptance of electric mobility in the Indian market, offering families a zero-emission alternative without compromising on space or features. If you’re considering making the switch to electric with a budget around Rs 20 lakh, this comprehensive 2025 comparison will help you make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
The Electric SUV Landscape
The Creta Electric is set to join the compact electric SUV segment on January 17, 2025 after its launch at the Auto Expo 2025. The electric SUV space has been growing in India and in the same space we have the MG ZS EV that has been on sale for a while now and is a tried and tested product.
The MG ZS EV price starts at an ex-showroom price of ₹18.98 lakh for the lowest Executive variant and goes up to ₹25.44 lakh for the top-spec Essence DT variant. The Hyundai Creta Electric on the other hand, starts at ₹17.99 lakh for the Executive and goes up to ₹24.38 lakh for the Excellence LR HC DT variant.
This makes the Creta Electric more affordable at both entry and top-end levels, giving it an immediate pricing advantage in this competitive segment.
Design Philosophy: Modern EV vs Established Character
Hyundai Creta Electric – Fresh EV Aesthetics
The electric Creta looks a lot like the base model, but there are a few EV-special touches like a grille with a pixelated pattern and a front bumper with active air flaps, improving aerodynamics and cooling. The charging port is neatly hidden behind the Hyundai emblem on the grille.
The Creta Electric maintains the sophisticated and premium character of the regular Creta while adding distinctive EV elements. The design is contemporary and appeals to buyers seeking a modern electric SUV that doesn’t compromise on style. The pixelated grille pattern and aerodynamic enhancements give it a futuristic appearance while retaining the Creta’s popular proportions.
The side profile maintains the familiar Creta silhouette that Indian buyers have come to love, with subtle EV badges distinguishing it from its ICE counterpart. The overall design approach prioritizes mainstream appeal rather than radical EV styling that might alienate traditional SUV buyers.
MG ZS EV – Refined Presence
The ZS EV has a closed grille with the charging port neatly placed to the left of the MG emblem. Its striking front bumper, adorned with chrome inserts, extends across the lower section, while the new 17-inch machined alloy wheels with a five-spoke design accentuate the SUV’s distinctive look.
As for the colours, the EV offers multiple options like Glaze Red, Aurora Silver, Starry Black, and Candy White. Notably, the 100-Year Edition offers a special British Racing Green finish. The ZS EV presents a more conventional SUV appearance with subtle EV-specific elements, appealing to buyers who prefer understated elegance.
The design has aged well despite being in the market since 2019, maintaining a contemporary appearance that doesn’t immediately reveal its age. The proportions are balanced, and the overall stance conveys solidity and confidence on the road.
Battery Pack and Range Battle
Hyundai Creta Electric Battery Options
The Creta Electric is offered with two battery pack choices: a 42 kWh pack with an ARAI-rated range of 390 km and a larger 51.4 kWh pack with a claimed range of 473 km. This dual battery strategy gives buyers flexibility based on their budget and range requirements.
Hyundai offers two battery options for the Creta EV: a 42kWh and a 51.4kWh. The 42kWh battery generates 133bhp, whereas the 51.4kWh variant churns out 169bhp. The larger battery not only provides more range but also delivers significantly more power, making it the performance-oriented choice.
The dual battery approach is strategic, allowing cost-conscious buyers to enter the EV segment at a lower price point with the 42 kWh pack, while offering enthusiasts the range and performance of the larger 51.4 kWh pack. This flexibility addresses different customer needs within a single model lineup.
MG ZS EV Single Battery Approach
The ZS EV, on other hand, only comes with a 50.3 kWh battery pack which offers a claimed range of 461 km. The MG ZS EV offers a range of up to 461 kilometres on a single charge, according to ARAI certification.
The single battery pack simplifies the choice for buyers but doesn’t offer the flexibility of a more affordable base option. The 461 km range sits between the Creta’s two options, making it competitive in terms of real-world usability. For most Indian buyers whose daily commute rarely exceeds 50-60 km, this range is more than adequate for a week’s worth of driving.
The ZS EV’s proven battery reliability over several years in the market provides confidence to potential buyers concerned about long-term battery health and performance degradation.
Charging Times and Infrastructure
Fast charging times are comparable between both vehicles, ensuring neither has a significant advantage in charging convenience. A full charge from 0% to 100% takes about 9 hours with a 7.4kW AC charger. However, with a 50kW DC fast charger, the battery can be charged from 0% to 80% in just 60 minutes for the ZS EV.
Both EVs support fast charging, making them practical for long-distance travel where DC fast chargers are available. The similar charging times mean your decision shouldn’t be based on charging speed alone. The key consideration is the availability of charging infrastructure in your area and along your regular travel routes.
Home charging using a standard wall box remains the most convenient option for daily use, allowing owners to start each day with a full battery. The overnight charging capability means you’ll rarely need to visit public charging stations unless undertaking long journeys.
Interior Experience and Features
Creta Electric Advanced Features
Both electric SUVs offer a good range of features, but the Creta EV stands out with amenities like larger screens, ventilated front seats, Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, ambient lighting, and dual-zone climate control.
It has a new centre console with a rotary knob, a three-spoke steering wheel, and a foldable tray table. The SUV also offers a one-pedal driving mode and a gear selector located on the steering column. For storage, the vehicle provides a 22-litre front trunk (frunk) and a 433-litre boot. It comes with a 2,610mm wheelbase.
The Creta Electric brings several innovative features including the V2L functionality that allows you to power external devices using the vehicle’s battery – perfect for camping or emergencies. The 22-liter frunk provides additional practical storage space not available in the ZS EV, ideal for storing charging cables or keeping valuables secure.
The dual-zone climate control ensures both driver and passenger can set their preferred temperature, enhancing comfort on long journeys. The ventilated front seats are particularly valuable in India’s hot climate, providing cooling comfort during summer months.
MG ZS EV Practical Luxury
In contrast, the MG ZS EV comes with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster, and auto AC with rear vents. It also includes a 360-degree camera, rear parking sensors, electronic stability control, six airbags, hill descent control, and a tyre pressure monitoring system for safety.
MG ZS EV offers 448 litres of boot space, which is notably larger than the Creta Electric’s 433 liters. This gives the ZS EV an advantage for families requiring maximum luggage capacity. The additional 15 liters might seem marginal but becomes significant when loading luggage for family vacations or transporting bulky items.
The cabin quality of the ZS EV is impressive with soft-touch materials, well-damped switchgear, and an overall premium feel. The rear seat offers good legroom and headroom, accommodating adult passengers comfortably on longer journeys.
Safety Equipment Battle
Creta Electric Safety Suite
Hyundai’s SUV has a Level 2 ADAS, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. It is also equipped with tyre pressure monitoring, front/rear parking sensors, six airbags, and a 360-degree camera.
The Level 2 ADAS represents cutting-edge safety technology, providing semi-autonomous driving assistance that reduces driver fatigue and enhances safety on highways and in city traffic. Features like adaptive cruise control maintain safe following distances automatically, while lane-keeping assist prevents unintentional lane departures.
The blind-spot monitoring system is particularly valuable in Indian traffic conditions where two-wheelers and smaller vehicles often appear in blind spots. Forward collision warning provides crucial seconds of warning time to avoid potential accidents.
ZS EV Safety Features
The ZS EV comes well-equipped with safety features including six airbags, electronic stability control, traction control, hill descent control, and a comprehensive suite of parking aids. While it may not match the Creta’s Level 2 ADAS, it provides all the essential safety equipment expected in this segment.
The electronic stability control and traction control systems work seamlessly to maintain vehicle stability during emergency maneuvers or on slippery surfaces. Hill descent control is particularly useful when driving in hilly terrain, maintaining controlled speeds on steep descents without driver intervention.
Which Electric SUV Should You Choose?
Choose the Hyundai Creta Electric If
You want the most affordable entry into this segment. Level 2 ADAS and advanced safety features are priorities. The V2L functionality appeals for camping or emergency power needs. You prefer having battery pack options to match your budget. The 22-liter frunk provides useful additional storage. Modern design with EV-specific styling appeals to you. One-pedal driving mode enhances efficiency. Hyundai’s extensive service network provides confidence. You want the quickest acceleration in this segment. Lower prices at both entry and top levels matter. Brand familiarity and the Creta nameplate’s reputation influence your decision.
Choose the MG ZS EV If
You prefer proven reliability with years of market presence. Maximum boot space (448 liters) is essential for your needs. A simpler single battery option without choice paralysis appeals. The established charging infrastructure compatibility gives confidence. You trust MG’s ownership experience based on existing owner feedback. The 100-Year Edition British Racing Green color attracts you. You prefer not being an early adopter of a new model. Slightly more power than the base Creta matters. The ZS EV’s design language resonates with your taste. You value the track record of battery reliability over several years.
The Final Verdict
While the final confusion comes down to the Creta EV’s pricing which has now been announced, the electric Creta seems to be a more complete package in every aspect when put side-by-side with the MG ZS EV. That being said, the ZS EV is also a great SUV in the segment, and you won’t really go wrong if you pick it.
The Hyundai Creta Electric enters the market with significant advantages including lower pricing, dual battery options, more advanced features, Level 2 ADAS, and the innovative V2L functionality. It represents the latest in electric SUV technology and benefits from the Creta nameplate’s strong reputation in India.
The MG ZS EV counters with proven reliability, larger boot space, established service infrastructure, and the confidence that comes from being a known quantity in the market. For buyers who value tried-and-tested products over cutting-edge features, the ZS EV remains a solid choice.
Visit dealerships, test drive both vehicles, and assess your priorities carefully. If you want maximum features, latest technology, and better value for money, the Creta Electric is the compelling choice. If proven reliability and maximum luggage space matter most, the ZS EV deserves serious consideration.
Both represent excellent options for families ready to embrace electric mobility without compromising on space, features, or practicality. The Indian EV revolution is here, and either of these SUVs will serve you well as your gateway to sustainable transportation. Consider your daily driving patterns, charging infrastructure availability in your area, and long-term ownership goals before making your final decision.
