Atlas I (NL-3) vs Creta I (GS): which is better?
Geely Atlas I (NL-3) (2016–2023) vs Hyundai Creta I (GS) (2016–2021): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Hyundai Creta I (GS)Specifications
| Geely Atlas I (NL-3) | Hyundai Creta I (GS) | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2016–2023 | 2016–2021 |
| Body | crossover SUV | crossover SUV |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 2.4 | 1.6 |
| Power, up to | 148 hp | 123 hp |
| Torque, up to | 226 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | automatic |
| Drive | all-wheel drive | front-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 519 mm | 4 270 mm |
| Width | 1 831 mm | 1 780 mm |
| Height | 1 694 mm | 1 630 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 670 mm | 2 590 mm |
| Ground clearance | 190 mm | 190 mm |
| Fuel tank | 60 L | 55 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 28 750 ₸ | ≈ 13 675 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Geely Atlas I (NL-3)
Pros
- Gearbox Aisin automatic: generally reliable
- All-wheel-drive versions available
Cons
- Geely (1.5T, 2.0T, 2.4) engine: the 2.0T (JLH-4G20) is based on the Volvo Drive-E engine
- Gearbox Aisin automatic: valve body wear at high mileage
Engine (Geely (1.5T, 2.0T, 2.4)): data limited; the 2.0T (JLH-4G20) is based on the Volvo Drive-E engine.
Gearbox (Aisin automatic): generally reliable; at high mileage — valve body wear.
Hyundai Creta I (GS)
Pros
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Local assembly: Russia
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Hyundai/Kia Gamma 1.6 engine (G4FC, G4FG): catalytic converter breakdown and debris entering the cylinders — scoring
- Hyundai/Kia automatic: jolts on 2–3 shifts and when braking
- Front-wheel drive only
Engine (Hyundai/Kia Gamma 1.6 (G4FC, G4FG)): catalytic converter breakdown with debris entering the cylinders — scoring; timing chain stretch after 150k km; knocking when worn (valves adjusted with shims).
Gearbox (Hyundai/Kia automatic): kicks on the 2–3 shift and when braking; solenoid and clutch pack wear at high mileage.
Which one to choose
- Atlas I (NL-3) — if you care more about: power, torque, wheelbase, fuel tank.
- Creta I (GS) — if you care more about: kz tax 2026.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: Atlas I (NL-3) or Creta I (GS)?
Atlas I (NL-3): up to 148 hp, Creta I (GS): up to 123 hp.
Which has more ground clearance?
Atlas I (NL-3): 190 mm, Creta I (GS): 190 mm.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Atlas I (NL-3) — about 28 750 ₸, Creta I (GS) — about 13 675 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.