HYUNDAI Exter

The Hyundai Exter enters the Indian market as a compact SUV, designed to cater to urban buyers seeking a versatile and feature-rich vehicle. Positioned within an accessible price bracket, it offers a compelling package for those looking for an SUV experience without a premium cost.

With options for both petrol and CNG powertrains, along with manual and automatic transmissions, the Exter aims to meet diverse driving preferences and ownership priorities. Its comprehensive safety features and modern conveniences make it a strong contender in its segment.

The Hyundai Exter presents itself as a practical and well-equipped SUV. While specific design nuances are not detailed, its SUV body type suggests a robust road presence, complemented by a range of eight colour options, including dual-tone choices like Ranger khaki with black roof.

Inside, the cabin focuses on functionality and modern conveniences. Higher variants offer features such as automatic climate control, front and rear power windows, and an 8-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Safety is a key highlight, with all variants featuring six airbags and ABS with EBD as standard. Further enhancements like Electronic Stability Control, Hill Start Assist, and a 360-degree camera are available on select trims, enhancing driver confidence.

Under the bonnet, the Exter offers two engine choices. The 1.2L Kappa Petrol engine delivers 82 bhp and is available with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed AMT, returning a mileage of 19.40 kmpl for the manual and 17.50 kmpl for the AMT. For those prioritising fuel efficiency and lower running costs, the 1.2L Kappa CNG engine, producing 69 PS, comes with a 5-speed manual transmission and boasts an impressive mileage of 27.10 km/kg. A notable feature for the CNG variant is the dual-cylinder setup, which typically allows for better boot space management compared to single-cylinder systems.

The Exter's feature list is extensive for its segment, with keyless entry, push-button start, LED DRLs, and wireless charging available on mid to higher variants. The inclusion of connected car technology (BlueLink) on some trims adds to its modern appeal. Considering its ex-showroom price range of ₹5.80 L to ₹9.57 L, the Hyundai Exter offers a strong value proposition, packing a significant number of safety and convenience features across its variant lineup.

For buyers prioritising affordability and fuel efficiency, the petrol manual variants, particularly the EX or S, offer a strong starting point with essential features and good mileage. Those seeking convenience in city traffic should consider the petrol AMT variants, which provide ease of driving, though with a slight reduction in fuel economy.

For the lowest running costs and environmental consciousness, the CNG variants are an excellent choice, especially with the practical dual-cylinder setup and impressive mileage. Buyers looking for a comprehensive feature set, including advanced safety and connectivity, should explore the SX and SX(O) trims, which offer amenities like a 360-degree camera, wireless charging, and connected car technology.

Owning a Hyundai Exter is likely to be a practical and convenient experience, especially for urban dwellers. Its compact SUV dimensions should make it manageable in city traffic and for parking. The availability of a CNG option suggests potentially low running costs, making it an economical choice for daily commutes. With standard safety features like six airbags and ABS with EBD across all variants, owners can expect a reassuring level of protection. Features such as automatic climate control, power windows, and an 8-inch infotainment system contribute to a comfortable and connected cabin experience, enhancing daily usability. The dual-cylinder CNG setup is a practical consideration, potentially offering more usable boot space compared to traditional single-cylinder CNG installations.

The Hyundai Exter enters the SUV segment with a clear focus on accessibility and value for the Indian market. While the broader SUV landscape includes premium offerings such as the Audi RS Q8, Land Rover Range Rover Velar, and BMW XM, these vehicles occupy a significantly higher price bracket and cater to a luxury clientele.

Similarly, the Mahindra Scorpio N Facelift, while a popular SUV, typically competes in a different size and price segment, often appealing to buyers seeking a more rugged or larger family vehicle. The Exter, in contrast, is positioned as a compact, feature-rich urban SUV, making it a distinct proposition for buyers looking for an affordable entry into the SUV category without compromising on modern conveniences and safety.