The Hyundai Exter is Hyundai’s entry into the highly competitive micro SUV segment in India. Designed for young buyers and city dwellers who also love adventure, the Exter combines bold SUV-inspired styling, feature-rich interiors, advanced safety, and efficient engine options. With a starting price of ₹6.13 lakh (ex-showroom, India), the Hyundai Exter is one of the most affordable yet stylish compact SUVs in the market.
In this article, we will explore the design, features, performance, safety, technology, and value proposition that make the Hyundai Exter a strong choice for budget-conscious SUV enthusiasts.
Bold SUV-Inspired Design
The Hyundai Exter carries a unique design that sets it apart from other hatchbacks and compact SUVs. Despite being a micro SUV, it has a tough and rugged look thanks to its boxy silhouette, parametric front grille, and H-shaped LED daytime running lights.
Key exterior highlights:
- Bold parametric front grille
- Projector headlamps with H-shaped LED DRLs
- Squared-off wheel arches with cladding for an SUV stance
- Stylish alloy wheels (up to 15-inch)
- Roof rails for a sporty appeal
- Dual-tone color options with contrasting roof choices
The Exter is designed for urban roads and weekend trips, making it a stylish yet practical choice for young buyers.
Spacious and Modern Interior
Despite its compact dimensions, the Hyundai Exter offers a spacious and practical cabin. The flat dashboard design, premium dual-tone interiors, and thoughtful storage spaces make it comfortable for everyday use.
Interior highlights include:
- 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Digital instrument cluster with a 4.2-inch TFT display
- Voice-enabled Smart Electric Sunroof (segment-first)
- Wireless smartphone charger
- Premium fabric seats with good cushioning
- 391-litre boot space, among the best in its class
Engine Options and Performance
The Hyundai Exter comes with fuel-efficient petrol and CNG engine options, making it versatile for different buyers.
- 1.2L Kappa Petrol Engine
- Power: 83 PS
- Torque: 114 Nm
- Transmission: 5-speed manual / 5-speed AMT
- 1.2L Bi-Fuel Petrol + CNG
- Power: 69 PS
- Torque: 95 Nm
- Transmission: 5-speed manual
- Ideal for buyers looking for lower running costs
Performance-wise, the Exter is tuned for city driving comfort, good mileage, and a balance of ride quality.
Mileage and Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is one of the strongest selling points of the Hyundai Exter.
- Petrol: Around 19.4 – 19.9 km/l (depending on transmission)
- CNG: Around 27.1 km/kg
This makes the Exter an economical choice for daily commuters and long-term owners.
Safety Features
Hyundai has equipped the Exter with best-in-segment safety features, ensuring peace of mind for families.
Key safety highlights:
- 6 Airbags as Standard across all variants
- ABS with EBD
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Hill Assist Control (HAC)
- Vehicle Stability Management (VSM)
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
- Rear parking camera with sensors
The standard six airbags make it stand out as one of the safest micro SUVs in its price range.
Technology and Convenience
Hyundai has given the Exter a tech-savvy interior to appeal to young buyers.
- Bluelink connected car technology with over 60 features
- OTA (Over-the-Air) updates for infotainment and maps
- Voice commands for sunroof and other functions
- Automatic climate control
- Cruise control for highway drives
- Rear AC vents for added passenger comfort
These features ensure that the Exter feels like a premium micro SUV despite its budget pricing.
Variants and Pricing
The Hyundai Exter is offered in five main trims – EX, S, SX, SX(O), and SX(O) Connect.
- Base Petrol Variant Price: ₹6.13 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Top Petrol Variant Price: Around ₹10.28 lakh (ex-showroom)
- CNG Variant Price Range: Around ₹8.24 lakh to ₹9.16 lakh (ex-showroom)
With multiple engine, transmission, and variant choices, the Exter caters to a wide range of buyers.
Competitors in the Market
The Hyundai Exter competes with cars like:
- Tata Punch
- Citroen C3
- Maruti Suzuki Ignis
Among these, the Exter stands out with its 6 standard airbags, connected tech, sunroof, and premium feel, giving it an edge over most rivals.
Why Buy the Hyundai Exter?
- SUV Styling at an Affordable Price – Rugged looks with practical dimensions.
- Feature-Rich Cabin – Sunroof, digital cluster, and connected car features.
- Excellent Safety Package – 6 airbags standard across all variants.
- Fuel Efficiency – Up to 27 km/kg in CNG, making it economical.
- Multiple Options – Petrol manual, AMT, and CNG versions available.
Conclusion
The Hyundai Exter is a well-rounded micro SUV that combines bold SUV styling, a feature-packed cabin, excellent safety, and multiple fuel options at an affordable price. Starting at just ₹6.13 lakh, it is a perfect choice for first-time car buyers, young families, and city commuters who also want the flexibility to explore beyond city roads.
With its competitive pricing, rich feature list, and Hyundai’s strong brand value, the Exter is set to become one of the best-selling micro SUVs in India.
