Hyundai, the renowned Korean carmaker, has made a grand entrance into the Indian market with the launch of its latest offering, the Hyundai Exter SUV. Positioned as the brand's entry-level SUV, the Exter aims to capture the hearts of Indian consumers with its attractive price point and impressive features. Starting at just Rs 5.99 lakh, the Exter is an affordable option for SUV enthusiasts, while the top-spec variant is priced at Rs 9.31 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).
The Hyundai Exter boasts five different variants to cater to the diverse preferences of customers: EX, S, SX, SX(O), and SX(O) Connect. The carmaker has received an overwhelming response from Indian buyers, with over 11,000 bookings already registered for the SUV. Interestingly, 38 per cent of the bookings are for the AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) version, showcasing the growing demand for automatic transmissions in the country. Additionally, the factory-fitted CNG variant has accounted for 20 per cent of the total bookings, reflecting the increasing popularity of eco-friendly options.
Price & Features
The entry-level Exter variant, the EX MT, comes with a starting price of Rs 5,99,900. Moving up the lineup, the S MT variant offers additional features and is priced at Rs 7,26,900. For those seeking the convenience of an automatic transmission, the Exter AMT variant is available at Rs 7,96,980. Stepping up to the SX variant, customers can enjoy enhanced features and performance at a price of Rs 7,99,900. The Exter also offers a CNG variant, catering to the eco-conscious audience, with a price tag of Rs 8,23,990. For those desiring the pinnacle of luxury and technology, the SX(O) variant is available at Rs 8,63,900. Finally, the top-of-the-line SX(O) Connect variant, equipped with advanced connectivity features, is priced at Rs 9,31,990. With such a wide range of options and competitive pricing, Hyundai aims to cater to the diverse needs and budgets of Indian consumers.
The Hyundai Exter stands out with its captivating design, featuring H-shaped LED daytime running lights (DRLs) and tail lamps that add a touch of elegance. The SUV also boasts flared wheel arches housing 15-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, front and rear faux skid plates, roof rails, and robust body cladding all around, exuding a rugged and sporty appeal.
Stepping inside the Exter, passengers are greeted by an all-black cabin that exudes sophistication. The SUV offers a range of tech-savvy features, including a digital instrument cluster, semi-leatherette seat upholstery, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration. Moreover, the Exter comes with voice-activated commands in multiple languages and over-the-air (OTA) updates, ensuring passengers stay connected and up-to-date. Additional conveniences include wireless charging, a factory-fitted dashcam, and keyless entry, among other features. Safety is prioritized with the inclusion of Electronic Stability Control (ESC), hill assist control, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), six airbags, seatbelt reminder for all seats, ISOFIX child seat anchors, and rear parking sensors with cameras.
Under the hood, the Hyundai Exter is powered by a 1.2-liter four-cylinder petrol engine that delivers 83 horsepower and 114 Nm of torque when running on petrol. The power output drops to 69 horsepower and 95.2 Nm of torque when operating on CNG. The petrol version of the SUV offers a choice between a 5-speed manual gearbox or an AMT, catering to the preferences of different drivers. The CNG variant, on the other hand, is equipped with a manual transmission as standard. Notably, the AMT versions of the Exter come with paddle shifters, enhancing the driving experience.
With the launch of the Hyundai Exter, the Korean automaker aims to strengthen its presence in the highly competitive Indian SUV market. The Exter's attractive price point, extensive feature list, and impressive design are expected to resonate with Indian consumers seeking an affordable yet stylish SUV. Hyundai's success in amassing over 11,000 bookings for the Exter reflects the brand's popularity and its ability to meet the evolving demands of Indian buyers. As the Indian automotive industry continues to flourish, the Hyundai Exter SUV is poised to make a significant impact and carve a niche for itself in the country's SUV segment.