Hyundai Exter : At a time when the market is witnessing increased car prices and higher customer expectations, Hyundai seems to have struck gold with its brand new micro-SUV, the Hyundai Exter.
Sleek, modern, great spec and keenly priced, the Exter can offer bang for buck for the novice SUV buyer and urbanite alike.
While an entry-level in Hyundai’s range of SUVs, the Exter’s feature list and presence suggests it should be far more expensive than it is.
In a market where defined demand for SUVs under ₹10 lakh is only on the rise, the Exter comes at a time when aggressive design, cutting-edge tech and practicality, all presented in a tidy package are all hot properties.
This vehicle stands out compared to competitors such as the Tata Punch and Citroen C3, placing it as one of the top low-price SUVs on the Indian market right now.
Bold Design, Superior Hand Feel
The Exter is endowed with an unmistakable, bold design from Hyundai which stands out on the road.
The front grille is wide and mean-looking, with H-shaped LED DRLs that give the car an up-to-date and techy look.
The squared off headlamps and sculpted bumper give it an easy on-the-eyes, SUV-type stance.
The cladding, flared wheel-arches and roof rails on the side make it look really rugged, and there are dual-tone paint options and diamond-cut alloy wheels to make it look a bit less rough and tough.
LED tail lamps and a subtle spoiler grace the rear with a crisp design. For all its compactness the Extesr doesn’t feel small, with its proportions playing tricks with your mind to create a real road presence.
Interior: Small-Space Comfort and Features
Step inside and the Exter, with its interior quality and clever use of space, takes you by surprise.
The dashboard is plain looking but contemporary with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system which gets Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, digital instrument cluster and top-end variant get premium seat upholstery.
The Exter from Hyundai comes with convenient features such as wireless charging, rear AC vents, push-button start, cruise control and voice-controlled sunroof operations.
A rearview camera, steering-wheel controls and a dashcam with dual recording in upper trims are also included in the mix (a segment first).
Space-wise, the Exter is happy to seat four average-sized adults. The previous seat are accommodating in the rear, offering good headroom and legroom for its size and that 391-litre boot is one of the biggest in its class.
In general, the cabin is carefully constructed, utilitarian and somewhat luxurious for a base SUV.
Engine and Performance
Under the hood, there is a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol mill that produces a power output of nearly 83 PS and a peak torque of 113.8 Nm.
It gets mated to either a 5-speed manual or AMT gearbox. It is smooth and polished, making it ideally suited for city commuting and the occasional highway stint.
For ppl who run a lot, Hyundai too provides a CNG option, which is a big positive for cost-conscious purchasers. The CNG also performs a bit worse, but is still able to keep up and be frugal with fuel.
The ride is shockingly well-damped for a micro-SUV. The suspension soaks up uneven pavement with ease, and the light steering. accommodates the ability to maneuver in congested city traffic.
Pros
Premium design at a low price
It looks pricier than it is, courtesy of forward design, LED lighting and two-tone paint.
Fitted with a sequence of features not seen before in a segment
Its sunroof, digital cluster, wireless charging, and dashcam are little everyday luxuries.
Spacious cabin and large boot
Provides plenty of space for your daily essentials as well as weekend travels while remaining small and mighty.
Pocket friendly petrol as well as CNG variants
It’s inexpensive to operate both and great for city commutes.
Reliability and broad service network of Hyundai
After breast cleansing the ski may rest on your chest to have the ski reclined.
Cons
Performance not sporty
The 1.2L engine is refined though not enthusiast friendly or for that matter built for spirited driving.
Limited space for 5 adults
Rear bench is comfortable for two, snug for three.
No turbo engine option
There is no turbocharged petrol for a bit of extra punch, unlike some rivals.
AMT transmission can be sluggish at times
It’s a modern touch that helps save fuel, but isn’t as silky as a CVT or torque converter arrangement.
Rear disc brakes missing
Homezone Drum brakes at the rear are a money-saving measure and they can feel the pressure when hauling loads.
Hyundai Exter Final Verdict
The Hyundai Exter hits that perfect mark of cost, looks & usability.
Thanks to its value-laden benefits, handsome design and good punch lines, it’s one of the cleverest choices among urban runabouts, and one of Kia’s best.