The Indian car market is loaded with the SUVs. But not everyone wants a large, bulky vehicle for the daily use. So If you wanted a small, affordable car, you had to compromise then you landed on the right page. The Hyundai EXTER with the rugged looks of an SUV combined with the practicality and efficiency of a hatchback your dream come true.
With its bold, boxy design and a name that suggests adventure, Hyundai has launched its much-anticipated contender in the red-hot micro-SUV space. It’s built to turn heads in the urban jungle and promises a compelling package of modern features, robust safety, and impressive practicality.
In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know to decide if the EXTER is the right car for you.
First Impressions: Design & Road Presence
Hyundai EXTER delivers on its promise of being a proper micro-SUV. It has an upright, confident stance that makes it look bigger than it is.
The first thing you’ll notice are the striking H-shaped LED Daytime Running Lamps (DRLs). They’re unmistakable and give the EXTER a unique identity on the road. The front is dominated by a parametric grille and a silver skid plate, while the black cladding around the wheel arches and chunky roof rails complete the muscular, ready-for-anything look. Popular colors like the new Ranger Khaki and Cosmic Blue really make the design pop.
You will be surprised by a clean, functional, and surprisingly spacious cabin. The all-black theme feels modern, and the quality of plastics and switchgear is excellent for the segment. Hyundai has aced the practicality game here; there are plenty of storage cubbies, and the legroom and headroom for rear passengers are genuinely impressive, making it a comfortable car for a small family.
Powered with: Engine, Performance & Mileage
At the heart of the Hyundai EXTER is the tried-and-tested 1.2L Kappa Petrol engine, producing 83 PS of power and 114 Nm of torque. These figures translate to a drive that is smooth, refined, and perfectly suited for city life. The pickup is peppy enough to handle quick overtakes, and the engine remains quiet at low speeds.
You get two gearbox options:
- 5-speed Manual: For those who enjoy full control and an engaging drive.
- 5-speed AMT (Automated Manual Transmission): The perfect choice for navigating bumper-to-bumper city traffic with ease.
For buyers focused on running costs, the factory-fitted CNG version is a masterstroke. It offers a seamless driving experience and significantly brings down your fuel bills without compromising on boot space, thanks to clever packaging.
Mileage Figures (ARAI Certified):
- Petrol Manual: 19.4 kmpl
- Petrol AMT: 19.2 kmpl
- CNG Manual: 27.1 km/kg
Gadgets: That Set the EXTER Apart
This is where the EXTER truly shines and leaves its rivals behind. Hyundai has loaded it with features that were previously unheard of in this segment.
The Showstoppers:
- Smart Electric Sunroof: A first in its segment, the voice-enabled sunroof adds a premium, airy feel to the cabin.
- Dashcam with Dual Camera: Another segment-first! This front and rear dashcam provides security and peace of mind, allowing you to record your drives.
Tech & Connectivity:
- An 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that’s slick and easy to use.
- Wired Android Auto & Apple CarPlay.
- A fully digital instrument cluster with a crisp color display.
- Hyundai’s BlueLink connected car tech (on top variants) for remote operations.
Creature Comforts:
- Wireless Phone Charger
- Rear AC Vents
- Cruise Control
- Footwell Lighting
Safety Features:
Alongside the airbags, every EXTER comes with:
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with EBD
- Rear Parking Sensors
- Emergency Stop Signal
Higher variants add even more layers of protection, including Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), and Hill Assist Control (HAC).
While the EXTER has not yet been tested by the Global NCAP or Bharat NCAP, its standard safety equipment list is the most robust in its class, providing a strong foundation of safety for every single buyer.
Picking the Right EXTER Variant
- The Value for Money Pick (SX Variant): This is the sweet spot. It gets you the 8-inch touchscreen, the digital instrument cluster, the electric sunroof (in the SX(O)), and avoids the price tag of the fully-loaded model. It’s the perfect balance of features and price.
- The Tech-Savvy Choice (SX(O) Connect): If you want every single bell and whistle, this is the one for you. It comes with the exclusive Dashcam, BlueLink technology, and all the top-tier features that make the EXTER a truly modern machine.
How Does It Square Up Against the Tata Punch?
- Where the EXTER Wins: It is undeniably the more feature-rich car. The electric sunroof, dashcam, wireless charger, and rear AC vents give it a huge edge in comfort and convenience. Its petrol engine is also widely regarded as smoother and more refined, and the factory-fitted CNG option is a massive advantage.
- Where the Punch Wins: The Tata Punch has one trump card that’s hard to beat: a proven 5-star Global NCAP safety rating. For buyers where this is the single most important factor, the Punch still holds the crown. It also has a slightly more rugged, imposing presence for some.
What is the real-world mileage of the Hyundai EXTER?
You can expect around 14-16 kmpl in the city for the petrol variants and over 20 km/kg for the CNG, depending on your driving style.
Is the Hyundai EXTER a 5-star safety rated car?
Not yet. It has not been crash-tested by GNCAP or BNCAP. However, it comes with 6 airbags as standard, which is a segment benchmark.
Which is better, Hyundai EXTER or Tata Punch?
The EXTER is better for features, refinement, and its CNG option. The Punch is better for its proven 5-star safety rating.
Is the base model of the EXTER good value?
Yes, the base ‘EX’ model is excellent value because it comes with 6 airbags and ABS as standard, making it one of the safest entry-level cars you can buy.