Hyundai has launched the Exter in India, with prices starting at Rs 5.99 lakh. Although official deliveries have not yet begun, a recent YouTube video provides a firsthand driving experience of the new Hyundai Exter.
In the video, the presenter starts the drive review by discussing the ergonomics and exterior view from the driver’s perspective. The Exter offers a slightly elevated seating position compared to other hatchbacks in its price range, providing a commanding view. The outside rear-view mirrors are well-sized and positioned, offering a clear view of the surroundings.
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The presenter highlights the driving experience of the new Hyundai Exter in urban environments. Regarding acceleration and performance, the Exter delivers a smooth and comfortable drive, similar to other compact Hyundai cars powered by the same engine.
Only petrol and CNG engine options
The Hyundai Exter comes equipped with a standard 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, generating 83 PS of power and 113.8 Nm of torque. It is available with both a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT transmission with a paddle shifter, which is a first-in-segment feature. Hyundai will not offer any diesel engine option with the Exter. Although the engine may lack the quickness of a turbocharged petrol engine, such as the one found in the Hyundai Verna, it offers decent power for city driving.
The presenter also discusses the performance of the 5-speed AMT transmission in the Hyundai Exter. While not as responsive as a torque converter or DCT, the AMT is finely tuned to provide excellent mileage figures. The Exter AMT boasts a maximum fuel efficiency of 19.4 kmpl, currently the best-in-segment among AMT-equipped micro-SUVs. An interesting feature of the Exter AMT is the inclusion of paddle shifters, a first in its segment.
Moving on to suspension and ride quality, the presenter notes that the suspension is differently tuned for petrol-powered and CNG-powered versions of the Hyundai Exter. In terms of comfort, there is a slight amount of body roll, but overall, the Exter offers a comfortable and decently plush ride over uneven roads.
Positioned below the Venue, the Hyundai Exter is the automaker’s smallest and most affordable SUV. It enters the market as a direct competitor to the Tata Punch and Citroen C3, while also competing with various compact hatchbacks, including its siblings, the Grand i10 Nios and i20.
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