Hyundai has recently launched the Exter, its smallest and most affordable SUV in the Indian market. The introductory prices for the Exter range from Rs 6 lakh to Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom, India). It is positioned below the Venue in Hyundai’s SUV lineup.
The Exter offers several segment-first features, including a sunroof and a factory-fitted dashcam with dual cameras. It competes with other vehicles in its segment such as the Tata Punch, Citroen C3, and Maruti Ignis. The Exter shares its underpinnings with the Grand i10 Nios and Aura models. It is available in five trims: EX, S, SX, SX(O), and SX(O) Connect.
In terms of powertrain options, the Exter is equipped with a 1.2-litre, naturally aspirated, four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 83hp and 114Nm of torque. It shares this engine with other Hyundai models such as the Nios, i20, and Venue. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT. The CNG variant of the Exter produces 69hp and 95.2Nm of torque and is available only with a manual gearbox.
Hyundai claims a fuel economy rating of 19.4 kilometers per liter (kpl) for the manual variant and 19.2 kpl for the AMT variant. The CNG variant offers superior fuel economy at 27.10 kpl.
In terms of design, the Exter follows Hyundai’s parametric design language, featuring textured detailing on the C-pillar and tail-gate garnish, as well as flared wheel arches. It has typical SUV styling cues, including boxy proportions, an upright nose, body cladding, front and rear faux skid plates, and roof rails. Higher-spec trims come with 15-inch dual-tone alloy wheels and are available in dual-tone color options.
The interior of the Exter shares its design with the Nios and Aura models, featuring an all-black color scheme. It also comes with a fully digital instrument cluster with a 4.2-inch multi-information display (MID). Higher variants offer semi-leatherette seat upholstery in black and olive-green shades. However, the Exter lacks a rear seat armrest.
In terms of features, the Exter offers a range of options, including automatic projector headlamps, keyless entry and go, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless charging, built-in navigation, connected car technology, voice-activated commands, and over-the-air (OTA) updates. Safety features include six airbags, ESC, hill assist control, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors and camera, three-point seatbelts with reminders, and ISOFIX anchorages.
The Hyundai Exter competes directly with the Tata Punch, Citroen C3, and Maruti Ignis, and also faces competition from lower variants of the Nissan Magnite and Renault Kiger in terms of pricing.
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