Creta I (GS) vs S3 I: which is better?
Hyundai Creta I (GS) (2016–2021) vs JAC S3 I (2014–present): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Hyundai Creta I (GS)
JAC S3 ISpecifications
| Hyundai Creta I (GS) | JAC S3 I | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2016–2021 | 2014–present |
| Body | crossover SUV | crossover SUV |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 1.6 | 1.6 |
| Power, up to | 123 hp | 109 hp |
| Torque, up to | 151 Nm | — |
| Gearbox | automatic | CVT |
| Drive | front-wheel drive | front-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 270 mm | 4 325 mm |
| Width | 1 780 mm | 1 765 mm |
| Height | 1 630 mm | 1 550 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 590 mm | 2 550 mm |
| Ground clearance | 190 mm | — |
| Fuel tank | 55 L | — |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 13 675 ₸ | ≈ 13 675 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
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.
JAC S3 I
Pros
- Currently in production — can be bought new
Cons
- CVT: service history matters
- Front-wheel drive only
- Modest power: up to 109 hp
Which one to choose
- Creta I (GS) — if you care more about: power, wheelbase.
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: Creta I (GS) or S3 I?
Creta I (GS): up to 123 hp, S3 I: up to 109 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Creta I (GS) — about 13 675 ₸, S3 I — about 13 675 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.