Table of Contents
Introduction
Introducing the Hyundai Exter, a fresh face in the automotive market that’s been turning heads with its impressive features and aggressive pricing. Launched at a starting price of INR 6 lakhs for the base variant and going up to INR 10 lakhs for the automatic version we tested, the Exter is poised to be a strong rival to the Tata Punch. But how does it perform on the road? Let’s explore the Exter’s driving experience, design elements, and feature list to see if it lives up to the buzz.
Driving Experience
At the core of the Hyundai Exter is its 1.2-litre engine paired with an Automated Manual Transmission (AMT). While the AMT may not offer the seamlessness of a torque converter, it surprises with its quick, responsive, and intuitive gear shifts. The transmission is eager to downshift when needed, ensuring a lively and engaging drive. Paddle shifters further enhance the experience by allowing manual gear control, adding a sporty touch.
The engine itself is refined and smooth, offering a linear power delivery that makes both city commutes and highway journeys feel effortless. For those opting for the manual variant, the light clutch and slick gearshifts contribute to a pleasant and driver-friendly experience.
Steering and Handling
The Hyundai Exter’s steering is well-tuned, providing light and effortless control at low speeds while delivering a confident, planted feel during high-speed cornering. This balance, along with the car’s impressive ride quality and high-speed stability, makes it genuinely enjoyable to drive. With a ground clearance of 185mm, the Exter is also well-prepared for typical Indian road conditions—whether it’s tackling rough patches or navigating through waterlogged city streets.
Exterior Design
The Hyundai Exter strikes a fine balance between funky and refined styling, thanks to its bold design elements. The signature ‘H’-shaped LED DRLs and the multi-dimensional front grille lend it a distinctive identity. Its SUV-like stance is emphasized by muscular cladding, while the steeply raked windshield adds a sense of motion and sportiness to the profile. At the rear, the ‘H’ motif continues, reflecting Hyundai’s keen eye for detail and cohesive design language.
Interior and Features
Inside, the Hyundai Exter adopts a familiar and user-friendly design, drawing inspiration from models like the Grand i10 Nios. The cabin features an intuitive layout, combining physical buttons for essential controls with a modern touchscreen interface. Standout features such as wireless charging, a factory-fitted dashcam, and a segment-first sunroof give the Exter a clear edge over its rivals. On the safety front, Hyundai has prioritized protection with six airbags, ESC, and other advanced systems, demonstrating a strong focus on achieving excellent crash safety ratings.
Conclusion
The Hyundai Exter has quickly made waves in the Indian automotive market by offering a value-packed, feature-rich experience in the micro-SUV segment. Designed to cater to modern urban needs, the Exter brings together a well-balanced mix of performance, comfort, and technology at a price point that is hard to ignore. Starting at ₹6 lakh and going up to ₹10 lakh for the top-end automatic variant, Hyundai has priced it competitively to take on segment leaders like the Tata Punch.
Under the hood, the Exter is powered by a refined 1.2-litre engine that delivers smooth, linear power. The AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) offers quick and intuitive gear shifts, making city commutes effortless. For those who enjoy more control, the manual variant provides light clutch action and seamless gear transitions. The inclusion of paddle shifters in the AMT variant also adds a touch of excitement, giving drivers a more engaging experience behind the wheel.
In terms of ride quality, the Exter truly shines. Its well-tuned suspension, combined with a 185mm ground clearance, allows it to confidently tackle urban potholes, speed bumps, and even mild off-road trails. The steering is well-weighted, offering excellent control at high speeds and easy maneuverability in tight spaces. All this contributes to a confident and planted driving feel, whether on highways or congested city roads.
