The Indian car market is witnessing a surge in demand for compact SUVs, vehicles that combine the practicality of a hatchback with the ruggedness and higher driving position of an SUV. Hyundai, a household name in the Indian automotive scene, has entered the fray with the all-new Hyundai Exter. This feature-rich offering targets budget-conscious buyers seeking a stylish, comfortable, and well-equipped SUV for city driving and occasional highway adventures. Let’s delve deeper and explore what the Exter brings to the table.
Head-Turning Design with Modern Touches
The Hyundai Exter boasts a contemporary design language that blends sharp creases with smooth curves. The signature cascading grille, flanked by sleek projector headlamps with LED DRLs, gives the Exter a bold and confident look. The sculpted bonnet and 15-inch dual-tone alloy wheels further enhance its sporty appeal. The roof rails add a touch of practicality, hinting at the Exter’s ability to handle weekend getaways with ease.
Comfort and Convenience on the Inside
Step inside the Exter, and you’re greeted by a surprisingly spacious cabin for a compact SUV. The well-laid-out dashboard features a combination of black and silver accents, creating a modern and sophisticated feel. The fabric upholstery, while not the most luxurious, feels comfortable and durable. The driver’s seat offers good adjustability, ensuring a comfortable driving position for long journeys.
Technology plays a vital role in enhancing the driving experience. The Exter offers a range of features, including a digital instrument cluster that displays essential driving information clearly, a central infotainment system with touchscreen functionality (depending on variant), and a multi-function steering wheel for controlling audio and cruise control. Features like automatic climate control and a sunroof, available on higher trims, further elevate comfort and convenience.
Safety First: A Secure Driving Experience
Hyundai prioritizes safety in all its vehicles, and the Exter is no exception. It comes equipped with a plethora of safety features, including Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), six airbags (driver, passenger, and side airbags), three-point seat belts with pre-tensioners and reminder, rear parking sensors, and an engine immobilizer with an anti-theft alarm. These features work together to provide occupants with peace of mind on every drive.
Engineered for Efficiency: Powering Your City Adventures
The Hyundai Exter comes with a single engine option – a 1.2-liter Kappa petrol engine tuned to run on E20 fuel, a biofuel blend containing upto 20% ethanol. This engine produces 83 horsepower and 114 Nm of torque, offering adequate power for city commutes and occasional highway runs. The engine is mated to either a 5-speed manual transmission or an intelligent manual transmission (AMT), giving buyers the choice between a more engaging driving experience or a relaxed automatic feel. A CNG variant is also available, catering to those seeking an even more economical option.
Fuel Efficiency: Keeping Running Costs in Check
The Hyundai Exter is designed with fuel efficiency in mind. The 1.2-liter petrol engine promises a frugal mileage figure, translating to lower running costs, a crucial factor for budget-conscious buyers. The CNG variant offers even greater fuel efficiency, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize economical driving.
A Range of Options to Suit Your Needs
The Hyundai Exter is offered in a variety of trims, allowing you to choose the variant that best suits your needs and budget. The base variants focus on essential features, while higher trims offer additional amenities like a sunroof, automatic climate control, and a touchscreen infotainment system. The availability of both manual and automatic transmissions further broadens the appeal of the Exter.
Hyundai Exter vs. the Competition: Standing Out in a Crowded Segment
The compact SUV segment in India is fiercely competitive, with established players like Tata Punch and Maruti Suzuki Ignis vying for market share. The Hyundai Exter stands out with its combination of stylish design, a feature-rich cabin, a focus on safety, and an engine lineup that prioritizes fuel efficiency. The competitive pricing strategy further strengthens the Exter’s position in the market.
The Final Verdict: A Compelling Choice for Budget-Minded SUV Seekers
The Hyundai Exter is a compelling option for buyers seeking a feature-rich, stylish, and fuel-efficient compact SUV. It offers a comfortable cabin, a plethora of safety features, and a choice of engines that cater to both performance and economy. With its competitive pricing, the Exter emerges as a strong contender in the bustling compact SUV segment. If you’re looking for a practical and feature-packed SUV for city driving and occasional highway escapades, the Hyundai Exter deserves a serious look.
