Tata Punch vs Hyundai Exter : The micro-SUV segment is seeing immense popularity in the Indian context these days, with two fierce competitors contending for the crown: the Tata Punch and the Hyundai Exter. Both are stylish cars loaded with features and are obviously intended to woo budget buyers who want the feel of an SUV in a compact package. The Tata Punch has already carved a niche for itself since its launch, whereas the modern-launched Hyundai Exter has been equipped with brilliant tech and features. Now, let us delve into which one offers better value for money.
Design and Road Presence
With its muscular and bold stance, along with a high ground clearance, Tata Punch has ideally earned SUV descriptions. Tall stance and rugged beautification impress with an upright body, prominent alloy wheels, a wide grille, and a split headlamp set-up. On the other hand, the Hyundai Exter is more of a futuristic-and-quirky design, with H-shaped LED DRLs, beautifully signed alloys, and youthful looks. While Punch looks a tougher SUV, Exter somehow feels trendier to attract the younger crowd.
Interior and Features
The cabin of the Hyundai Exter has a greater winning score. This car possesses a heavy mark with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and even a factory-fitted dashcam, unique in this segment. The Tata Punch features a very good premium cabin, decent cabin space, semi-digital instrument cluster, and a 7-inch infotainment screen compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. But with that extra touch, the Exter comes up at the top in feature count for the win.
Engine and Performance
Both SUVs will be powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine. The Tata Punch develops approximately 86 PS of power, while the Hyundai Exter develops slightly lower power at 83 PS but has the more refined performance. Both will be offered with manual and AMT gearbox options, but the Exter drives home with the CNG model, delivering higher efficiency and lower running cost for an average user. Tata Punch is, however, the more comfortable ride with its rugged suspension and stability on bumpy roads, giving it an SUV-like feel to drive.
Safety
With a 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP crash tests, the Tata Punch has all rights to boast itself as one of the safest vehicles of its class. The Hyundai Exter, however, gets six standard airbags across all variants, which will hugely benefit safety-demanding customers. Both cars perform well safety-wise, but it is the proven crash rating of the Punch that gives it the advantage.
Both the Tata Punch and the Hyundai Exter are great picks for the micro-SUV class. The Punch will best suit any buyer wanting a rugged, safe, and stable SUV for both the city as well as undulating roads. The Exter, on the other hand, will fit the buyer in search of modern features, trendy design, and much more importance for the CNG option. The final choice, then, will be a matter of toughness against technology.