Hyundai Exter budget SUV : India compact SUV market is growing fast, and Hyundai knows exactly what the buyers want style, features, and value. That’s where the Hyundai Exter steps in. This is not just another small SUV. The Exter is built with the urban Indian family in mind, blending modern design, good ground clearance, and a price tag that doesn’t break the bank.
Whether you’re a college-goer, first-time car buyer, or looking for a stylish second car, the Exter is now a strong contender. With Hyundai’s solid reputation and attention to customer feedback, this budget SUV brings fresh energy to the road.
Its tall stance, striking LED elements, and new-age interiors give it the edge in a crowded segment. Most importantly, it does all this while staying affordable. If you’ve been waiting for a compact SUV that ticks all the right boxes, the Hyundai Exter is finally here to impress.
Hyundai SUV Strategy and the Birth of Exter
Hyundai has found major success in the Indian SUV space with models like the Creta and Venue. However, there was a clear gap below the Venue an entry-level SUV with bold styling and solid value. That’s exactly what led to the Exter’s development. Hyundai wanted to deliver SUV traits like high seating and road presence at a hatchback price.
The Exter is based on the Grand i10 Nios platform but tuned for SUV needs. It has more ground clearance, rugged design elements, and an upright stance. This new subcompact SUV also helps Hyundai compete directly with Tata Punch and Citroen C3. Built primarily for city buyers with occasional highway use, the Exter fits the Indian lifestyle perfectly.
Exterior Look and Feel
The Hyundai Exter makes a strong first impression with its boxy profile and SUV-inspired design. You get a squared front look with H-shaped LED DRLs, a muscular bonnet, and chunky wheel arches. It stands tall and confident exactly what Indian buyers want from a compact SUV.
Side cladding, roof rails, and a floating roof effect with blacked-out pillars make it more premium. The rear also gets a wide tailgate with modern tail lamps. Overall, it looks youthful and bold without going over the top. Color options include both solid and dual-tone choices aimed at young drivers.
Power, Mileage, and Fuel Options
The Exter is offered with a 1.2L Kappa petrol engine paired with both 5-speed manual and AMT options. For those who prefer green driving and savings, there’s also a factory-fitted CNG variant. Hyundai claims up to 19.4 km/l mileage for petrol and over 27 km/kg for CNG, making it wallet-friendly too.
The car is tuned more for daily comfort than outright performance. It does city driving smoothly and can manage highway speeds without stress. AMT variants get creep function for ease in traffic, while the CNG version focuses on economy and clean driving.
Pricing and Trim Options
Hyundai knows pricing is critical in this segment. The Exter starts at ₹6.13 lakh (ex-showroom) and goes up to ₹10.28 lakh for the top SX (O) Connect dual-tone trim. The CNG variants are priced at ₹8.43 lakh and ₹8.97 lakh.
There are five broad trims: EX, S, SX, SX (O), and SX (O) Connect. Buyers can choose between manual, AMT, or CNG depending on budget and needs. Hyundai also offers finance schemes and low EMI plans through its dealer network to attract younger buyers.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.2L Kappa Petrol |
| Power | 83 PS (Petrol) / 69 PS (CNG) |
| Torque | 113.8 Nm (Petrol) / 95.2 Nm (CNG) |
| Transmission | 5-speed Manual / AMT |
| Mileage | 19.4 km/l (Petrol), 27.1 km/kg (CNG) |
| Length | 3815 mm |
| Width | 1710 mm |
| Height | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2450 mm |
| Boot Space | 391 liters |
| Fuel Tank | 37 liters (Petrol), 60 liters (CNG) |
Interiors and Comfort Features
Step inside the Exter and you’re greeted with a surprisingly premium cabin for its segment. The dashboard layout is modern and layered. Top variants come with an 8-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, and voice-enabled features. Fabric seats, rear AC vents, and multiple charging ports make it comfortable for long city commutes.
Hyundai has added thoughtful touches like a rear center armrest, ambient lighting, and paddle shifters (in AMT). Rear seat space is ample for two adults and a child. Boot capacity at 391 liters is segment-best, making it great for weekend trips and shopping runs.
Galaxy A36 With 400MP Cam And 7500mAh Battery May Break The Smartphone Market
Why Hyundai Exter Stands Out
- Design Language: Unique DRLs, strong stance, and SUV details
- Features Per Rupee: First-in-segment sunroof, dashcam with dual cameras, TPMS
- Multiple Fuel Options: Petrol, AMT, and CNG
- Safety Pack: Six airbags standard, ESC, hill assist, rear camera
Tech and Innovation at Budget Pricing
Hyundai has packed Exter with tech that’s usually reserved for more expensive cars. You get connected car features with 60+ functions via the Hyundai Bluelink app. Remote AC start, vehicle tracking, and geo-fencing are all included in the top SX(O) Connect variant.
Voice commands for climate control, music, and navigation are built-in. The dual-camera dashcam, a segment-first, offers real-time video recording and time-lapse modes. It’s a big win for urban drivers who value both convenience and safety in traffic-heavy conditions.
Segment Showdown
- Tata Punch: More rugged but fewer features at the base trim
- Maruti Ignis: Cheaper but not as feature-loaded or SUV-like
- Citroen C3: Good ride quality but lacks safety kit and brand trust
What gives Exter the lead is its blend of safety, looks, features, and Hyundai’s proven service network. It’s not just priced well it’s equipped smartly too.
Launch Timeline and Initial Market Buzz
The Hyundai Exter was launched in July 2023 and quickly made headlines as the most affordable SUV with six airbags as standard. Bookings crossed 50,000 within the first few weeks, reflecting strong interest from young urban families.
Vivo Next 5G Smartphone With Pro Camera And Beast Mode Battery Is Coming Soon
Deliveries started immediately through Hyundai’s 1,300+ showrooms. Customer response has praised its ride comfort, compact turning radius, and tech features. Rural buyers are also showing interest, especially in CNG trims due to low fuel cost.
Eco-Ready and Urban-Strong
In addition to the CNG variant, Hyundai may consider an all-electric Exter in future to further build on India’s EV push. The current model already adheres to BS6 Phase 2 emission norms and is compliant with safety rules.
Its compact footprint makes it a perfect fit for crowded cities, while its high ground clearance makes it ready for potholes and monsoon roads. Hyundai’s efforts to make it light and efficient also help with long-term ownership costs.
Buyer Sentiments and Ownership Stories
- Value for Money: Most features under ₹10 lakh
- Safety: Standard six airbags even in base trim
- Urban Comfort: Light steering, smooth AMT, spacious rear
Many are calling it the best first car for young professionals and a solid second car for families wanting a mix of style and practicality.
Conclusion of Hyundai Exter
Hyundai Exter isn’t just a new launch it’s a category redefinition. It proves that you don’t need to spend big to get modern design, strong safety, and smart tech.
Infinix 5G Budget Flagship With DSLR Camera And 12GB RAM Is Turning Heads
Positioned smartly below the Venue, it offers real SUV vibes without stretching the budget. With top-class cabin space, connected features, and Hyundai’s solid after-sales promise, the Exter delivers big in a small format.
For buyers looking for their first SUV or upgrading from a small hatchback, the Exter offers everything needed for city driving, occasional highway runs, and daily family use. It’s the SUV that respects your budget but doesn’t cut corners. Hyundai has hit the sweet spot again, and the Exter is all set to dominate the roads in its segment.
If you’re thinking about a smart, stylish, and sensible compact SUV, the Exter deserves a place on your shortlist. Bookings are open, test drives are happening, and Hyundai’s latest is here to make a lasting mark.