The Hyundai Exter, launched in 2023, has carved a niche in the Indian subcompact SUV segment. With its striking design, feature-packed cabin, and competitive price tag, it has garnered significant attention from budget-conscious car buyers. Let’s delve into the key aspects of the Exter 2024, exploring its strengths and potential considerations:
Eye-Catching Design: The Exter departs from conventional SUV aesthetics. Its bold, boxy silhouette, split headlamp design, and prominent grille lend it a unique road presence. While some may find it unconventional, it undoubtedly stands out in a sea of similar-looking SUVs.
Feature-Rich Interior: Stepping inside, the Exter surprises with its modern and well-equipped cabin. The touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, voice commands, and a digital instrument cluster are impressive at this price point. Features like a panoramic sunroof, automatic climate control, and keyless entry add to the convenience and premium feel.
Versatile Powertrains: The Exter offers three engine options: a 1.2L Kappa petrol with manual and automatic transmission, a 1.2L Bi-Fuel Kappa petrol-CNG with manual transmission, and a 1.0L T-GDI turbocharged petrol with an automatic transmission (expected soon). This caters to diverse needs, from fuel efficiency (CNG) to spirited performance (turbo).
Spacious and Practical: The Exter offers decent interior space for its segment, comfortably accommodating five adults. The cargo area is also ample, making it suitable for weekend getaways or grocery hauls. However, if you prioritize absolute legroom and cargo capacity, larger SUVs might be worth considering.
Safety First: The Exter comes equipped with six airbags, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors. Higher variants boast additional safety features like a rearview camera, hill assist control, and electronic stability control. While not the most comprehensive safety suite, it offers reasonable protection for its price.
Value Proposition: The Exter’s starting price of ₹6.13 lakh makes it highly competitive. Packed with features, decent space, and multiple engine options, it delivers good value for money. However, keep in mind that higher variants with desirable features push the price closer to its more established competitors.
Potential Considerations: The Exter’s unique design might not appeal to everyone. The 1.2L engines, while adequate, might feel underpowered for highway cruising. The lack of some advanced safety features in lower variants might be a concern for some buyers.
Verdict: The Hyundai Exter 2024 is a compelling option for budget-conscious SUV buyers seeking a bold design, modern features, and practical space. Its value proposition is hard to beat, making it a strong contender in the Indian subcompact SUV segment. However, carefully weigh your priorities and consider alternatives if design preference, absolute space, or top-tier safety features are paramount.
