The Indian car market has seen a rising demand for compact and budget friendly SUVs, especially among young buyers, first time car owners, and small families. Buyers today want a vehicle that looks like an SUV, offers modern features, delivers good mileage, and remains affordable to buy and maintain. Hyundai Exter is designed exactly for this new generation of customers.
Positioned as a micro SUV, the Exter fits below larger compact SUVs while still offering a bold stance, high ground clearance, and SUV inspired styling. Hyundai has focused on creating a car that feels premium without pushing the price into uncomfortable territory. With its youthful appeal, easy driving nature, and reliable engineering, the Exter has quickly become a popular option among urban buyers. Let us take a detailed look at what makes Hyundai Exter a smart and value packed choice.
Engine Performance and City Driving Experience
Hyundai Exter is powered by a 1197 cc petrol engine that is tuned for smoothness and daily usability. Depending on the variant, the engine delivers power between 67.72 bhp and 81.8 bhp. On paper, these figures may not sound aggressive, but in real world driving conditions, the Exter feels responsive and easy to handle.
Torque output ranges from 95.2 Nm to 113.8 Nm, which is sufficient for city driving and short highway runs. The engine performs best in urban environments where frequent braking, starting, and low speed movement are common. Throttle response is predictable, making it comfortable for new drivers and those upgrading from hatchbacks.
Hyundai offers both manual and AMT gearbox options. The manual transmission gives drivers better control and is ideal for those who enjoy active driving. The AMT variant is especially useful in heavy city traffic, providing clutch free convenience and smoother daily commuting. The front wheel drive layout further enhances fuel efficiency and stability.
Summary Table
Category |
Details |
|---|---|
Segment |
Micro SUV |
Engine Type |
Petrol |
Engine Capacity |
1197 cc |
Maximum Power |
67.72 bhp to 81.8 bhp |
Maximum Torque |
95.2 Nm to 113.8 Nm |
Mileage |
19.2 kmpl to 19.4 kmpl |
Transmission |
Manual and AMT |
Drive Type |
Front wheel drive |
Price Range |
₹5.68 lakh to ₹9.61 lakh |
Official Website |
Ride Comfort and Ease of Handling
One of the major strengths of the Hyundai Exter is its ease of use. The steering is light, which makes tight turns, parking, and city navigation effortless. Its compact dimensions help drivers maneuver easily through narrow streets and crowded traffic conditions.
The suspension setup is tuned for comfort rather than sporty performance. It absorbs most road irregularities, speed breakers, and potholes without causing discomfort to passengers. While high speed cornering is not its primary focus, the Exter remains stable and confident at normal highway speeds.
The raised seating position provides better road visibility, adding to driver confidence. For daily commuting, shopping trips, or college travel, the Exter feels stress free and pleasant to drive.
Mileage and Fuel Efficiency
Mileage is a crucial factor for budget conscious buyers, and this is where the Hyundai Exter truly shines. According to ARAI figures, the Exter delivers fuel efficiency ranging from 19.2 kmpl to 19.4 kmpl depending on the variant and transmission.
This level of efficiency is impressive for a micro SUV with a petrol engine. The lightweight body, efficient engine tuning, and compact design work together to keep fuel consumption under control. For buyers who travel daily to work, college, or within the city, the Exter helps significantly reduce fuel expenses over time.
Exterior Design and Road Presence
Despite being compact, the Hyundai Exter has a bold and distinctive design. The front fascia features H shaped LED daytime running lights, a strong grille design, and a squared off bonnet that gives it a tough and confident look.
The boxy proportions help the Exter stand out among regular hatchbacks. From the side, sharp character lines, roof rails, and compact wheel arches give it a youthful and sporty appearance. The rear styling continues the theme with H shaped tail lamps, offering a strong visual identity.
Overall, the Exter looks modern, rugged, and stylish at the same time. It appeals strongly to younger buyers who want their first car to look bold and different.
Interior Design and Cabin Comfort
Inside the cabin, Hyundai has focused on practicality and comfort. The interior layout feels clean and functional, with controls placed within easy reach. The seats offer good cushioning and support for short to medium distance drives.
Front seats are comfortable for daily use, while the rear seat provides adequate space for two adults and a child. The cabin does not feel cramped for a car in this segment, and headroom remains generous.
Storage spaces are well planned, including door pockets, cup holders, and dashboard storage areas. Boot space is suitable for daily errands and weekend luggage, making the Exter a practical choice for small families.
Features and Technology
The Hyundai Exter comes with a feature loaded package, especially in higher variants. Depending on the version, buyers can expect features such as a touchscreen infotainment system, smartphone connectivity, digital instrument display, steering mounted controls, wireless charging, and keyless entry.
Hyundai has ensured that even lower variants get essential convenience features, making the Exter good value across the lineup. The focus on technology and connectivity helps the Exter feel more premium than its price suggests.
Safety and Build Confidence
Safety is an important consideration for first time buyers and families. The Hyundai Exter provides essential safety equipment such as anti lock braking system, airbags, rear parking sensors, and stability related features depending on the variant.
Hyundai’s reputation for reliability and service support adds to buyer confidence. The car feels solid for its class and behaves predictably in everyday driving conditions.
Variants and Pricing Strategy
One of the biggest advantages of the Hyundai Exter is its wide variant range. Prices start at around ₹5.68 lakh for the base model and go up to approximately ₹9.61 lakh for the top end SX Opt Connect Knight dual tone AMT variant.
With around 39 variants on offer, buyers have the flexibility to choose according to budget, transmission preference, and feature requirements. This wide selection ensures that there is an Exter suitable for almost every type of buyer in the micro SUV category.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Hyundai Exter suitable for daily city driving
Yes, its compact size, light steering, and good mileage make it ideal for city use.
2. Does Hyundai Exter come with automatic transmission
Yes, Hyundai Exter is available with both manual and AMT options.
3. What mileage does the Hyundai Exter offer
The Exter delivers mileage between 19.2 kmpl and 19.4 kmpl as per ARAI ratings.
4. Is the Hyundai Exter good for first time car buyers
Yes, its easy handling, affordable pricing, and low running costs make it suitable for first time buyers.
5. What is the starting price of the Hyundai Exter
The starting price of the Hyundai Exter is around ₹5.68 lakh ex showroom.
Conclusion
The Hyundai Exter successfully delivers what most budget conscious urban buyers look for. It offers SUV inspired styling, excellent mileage, smooth performance, modern features, and affordable pricing in one compact package.
For college students, young professionals, small families, and first time car buyers, the Exter presents itself as a sensible yet stylish option. It combines daily practicality with Hyundai’s trusted service network, making it a smart long term ownership choice in the micro SUV segment.
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