Hyundai Exter Review: Adventure Awaits
The Hyundai Exter, launched in 2023, brings youthful energy to micro-SUVs. Priced from ₹6.13 Lakh to ₹10.43 Lakh (ex-showroom), it offers petrol/CNG options with 6 airbags. This 2025 review, based on user feedback and test drives, compares it to Punch.ev, Creta, and Creta Electric.
Design & Exterior: Youthful Styling with Ample Appeal
The Exter’s 3815mm long, 1710mm wide, 1631mm tall frame features a parametric grille, LED DRLs, and 185mm ground clearance. Owners love its mini-SUV vibe, though plastic quality feels basic and alloys attract dust.
Bold Lighting:
LED DRLs and roof rails enhance its adventurous look.
Youthful Design:
R15 alloys and colors like Ranger Khaki/Phantom Black Roof amplify its appeal.
Interior & Comfort: Spacious for Its Class
The Exter’s dual-tone cabin with 391L boot and rear AC vents offers practical comfort. Rear legroom beats Nios, but headroom is tight for tall passengers.
Practical Comfort:
Height-adjustable driver seat, tilt steering, and semi-leatherette seats (higher trims) ensure daily usability.
Ample Storage:
391L boot balances compact size with practicality.
Performance: Power-Packed for Everyday Fun
With a 1.2L Kappa petrol (83 PS, 114 Nm) or Bi-Fuel CNG (69 PS, 95 Nm), the Exter hits 0-100 km/h in 12-13s. Stable handling suits city and highways up to 140 kmph.
Engine Options:
5-speed MT/AMT (petrol) or CNG for efficient, fun drives.
Smooth Handling:
McPherson/torsion beam suspension ensures a smooth ride.
Fuel Efficiency: Efficient for Adventure
With ARAI claims of 19-20 kmpl (petrol), 27 km/kg (CNG), real-world yields 14-16 kmpl/22-24 km/kg, offering 500-650 km range. Costs at ₹4-6/km (petrol) or ₹2-3/km (CNG).
Fuel Economy:
17 kmpl (petrol)/24 km/kg (CNG) in eco mode; AC/traffic impacts efficiency.
Range Advantage:
500-650 km range with 37L petrol/60L water eq. CNG tanks.
Technology: Modern Features for Connectivity
The Exter’s 20.32 cm touchscreen with BlueLink, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, and voice recognition matches urban needs but trails Creta’s dual screens.
Infotainment Hub:
20.32 cm touchscreen, 4 speakers, and wireless charging deliver modern tech; base audio lags.
Connected Features:
BlueLink and voice recognition excel in Hindi/English; no OTA updates.
Safety: Secure for New Experiences
With 6 airbags standard, ABS with EBD, and ESC/VSM/HAC (higher trims), the Exter matches Nios but trails Creta Electric’s ADAS.
Comprehensive Safety:
6 airbags, ISOFIX, and strong body ensure robust protection.
Driver Aids:
Rear camera and ESC/HAC boost confidence on wet roads; no ADAS.
Full Specifications Table: Hyundai Exter
Engine & Performance
- Drive Type: FWD
- Engine: 1.2L Kappa Petrol / Bi-Fuel CNG
- Power: 83 PS (Petrol) / 69 PS (CNG)
- Torque: 114 Nm (Petrol) / 95 Nm (CNG)
- 0-100 km/h: ~12-13s
- Transmission: 5-speed MT/AMT (Petrol) / MT (CNG)
- Suspension: McPherson Front, Torsion Beam Rear
Fuel Efficiency
- Fuel Type: Petrol / CNG
- ARAI Mileage: 19-20 kmpl (Petrol) / 27 km/kg (CNG)
- Real-World Mileage: 14-16 kmpl (Petrol) / 22-24 km/kg (CNG)
- Fuel Tank: 37L (Petrol) / 60L water eq. (CNG)
- Range: 500-650 km
- Running Cost: ₹4-6/km (Petrol) / ₹2-3/km (CNG)
Dimensions & Storage
- Length: 3815 mm
- Width: 1710 mm
- Height: 1631 mm
- Wheelbase: 2450 mm
- Ground Clearance: 185 mm
- Boot Space: 391L
Comparisons: Exter vs Punch.ev, Creta, Creta Electric
- Vs. Punch.ev (₹9.99-15.13 Lakh): Exter is cheaper but lacks EV range.
- Vs. Creta (₹11.00-20.15 Lakh): Affordable, less space/tech.
- Vs. Creta Electric (₹17.99-24.38 Lakh): Budget ICE/CNG vs EV efficiency.
Pros and Cons: Our Balanced View of the Hyundai Exter
Pros:
- Bold Design: Mini-SUV stance with LED DRLs and roof rails.
- Safe: 6 airbags and ESC ensure safety.
- Efficient: CNG option and 391L boot for practicality.
Cons:
- Average Mileage: Drops in traffic with AC on.
- No ADAS/EV: Lacks advanced safety and electric options.
Variants: Options for Every Adventurer
- EX: Base petrol MT, essentials (₹6.13 Lakh).
- S: Adds touchscreen, alloys (₹7.23 Lakh).
- SX: Mid-spec with auto AC, camera (₹8.43 Lakh).
- SX(O): Top with wireless charging (₹10.43 Lakh).
- CNG: Available in S/SX trims (~₹50k extra).
Who Is This Car For? Tailored Recommendations
The Hyundai Exter is ideal for first-time buyers, urban adventurers, and budget-conscious families seeking a youthful micro-SUV under ₹10.43 Lakh.
First-Time Buyers:
Affordable pricing and 6 airbags make it a safe, budget-friendly choice.
Urban Adventurers:
185mm ground clearance and youthful design suit city and weekend trips.
Budget-Conscious Families:
391L boot and CNG option offer practicality and savings.
Who Might Consider Other Options?
The Exter is a youthful micro-SUV, but some buyers may prefer alternatives for specific needs.
EV Enthusiasts:
The Tata Punch.ev (₹9.99-15.13 Lakh) offers electric efficiency.
Premium SUV Seekers:
The Hyundai Creta (₹11.00-20.15 Lakh) or Creta Electric (₹17.99-24.38 Lakh) offer more space and tech.
Compact Hatch Enthusiasts:
The Hyundai Grand i10 Nios (₹5.92-8.56 Lakh) provides agile city driving.
Final Verdict: A Youthful SUV for New Drives
The Hyundai Exter delivers youthful styling and efficiency at ₹6.13-10.43 Lakh. With a 4.5/5 user rating, it’s perfect for budget adventurers. Test drive for fun, or consider Creta Electric for EVs.
Overall Rating: 4.5 out of 5.0 (Based on Expert Analysis)