Hyundai Exter: 2023 Design The Exter arrived in mid-2023, as the Korean automaker’s answer to India’s mushrooming market of micro-SUV space, showcasing itself as a chic metro-goer with faux-crossover intents.
Positioned beneath the successful Venue in Hyundai’s lineup, the Exter is aimed at first-time car buyers looking for SUV aesthetics in a small package with an affordable price tag.
Design Philosophy
It adopts the current generation of Hyundai’s “Sensuous Sportiness” design language, but stands on its own.
More details»The front end is defined by a parametric grille pattern flanked by split headlamp architecture—a Hyundai signature for SUVs in which slim DRLs rest atop the headlight clusters.
This set-up results in a unique lighting signature for high effectiveness in its category.
The squat side profile shows squared-off wheel arches on 15-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, as well as black cladding that runs across the lower part of the body to add visual toughness.
Design — Aesthetics The sub 4-meter SUV design is well complemented by the floating roof design and Option of contrast color roof and roof rails.
At the back, H-pattern LED taillights are used, linked by piano black garnish to convey a sense of width and luxury.
At just 3815mm long and 1710mm wide, Exter makes a big impression through carefully styled proportions and deliberately over-prominent SUV styling details.
Cabin Experience
In the cabin, the Exter is surprisingly upscale for its segment, with a dash layout lifted straight out of its pricier stablemates.
An 8-inch floating touchscreen infotainment system sits front and center, bordered by vertical air vents accented in silver.
The flat-bottom steering wheel itself is a sophisticated touch not usually seen at this price point and the digital instrument cluster that sits behind it is just the icing on the cake.
Some of the good interior features are :
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wireless smartphone integration
First in segment dashcam with dual cameras
Chilled glove box for drink storage
Air-charging cooler for a cell phone
voice command smart electric sunroof
Ambient room light with multiple colour choices
Rear AC vents for better air circulation
2 x 60:40 split folding rear seats for increased luggage capacity
The cabin utilises space reasonably well for a small car and even tall folk have enough headroom thanks to the high roof.
The raised seat height offers a commanding view but is surprisingly roomy for the segment at a 391-liter boot capacity.
Performance Dynamics
TheExter comes with two powertrain options – a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol unit that churns out 83bhp and 114Nm of torque and the same but factory fitted CNG version that produces 69bhp and 95.2Nm.
ANDVEL TRANSMISSIONS: The former are available with either a 5-speed manual gearbox or an automated manual transmission (AMT) for the petrol variant; the latter is only available with a 5-speed manual transmission.
The car is of a lightweight design; with a kerb weight of just 935-995 kg depending upon variant, performance can be still very reasonable given the modest engine outputs.
The suspension is tuned more for comfort than sport, with MacPherson struts in front and a torsion beam in the rear soaking up those urban potholes and ruts quite nicely.
The electric power steering gives little effort for city maneuvering but provides acceptable feedback on the highway.
Pros of the Hyundai Exter
Design Attraction: The unique design generates intrigue not standard in the budget price tier.
Wide Range of Features : Most of the feature that Scared Cow has can be seen in higher segment vehicles.
Safety: Six airbags are standard for all models, breaking the barrier for entry-level cars.
Range of Powertrains: It comes with factory-fitted CNG for a powerful drive without compromising on fuel efficiency.
Factory Warranty: 3 years/unlimited km assures peace of mind ownership.
Cons of the Hyundai Exter
Space room: The rear seats are not the most accommodating for taller occupants on long journeys.
Performance Shortcomings: On hills or during passing maneuvers, the non-turbo engine will ask for lots of downshifting.
AMT Traits: The AMT, which has its characteristic wobbly nature at low speeds, nodding its head while swapping cogs.
Ride hardness: The suspension can be a little fussy over sharp impacts for a car with such an easygoing bent.
Feature Distribution: Many feature options are restricted to upper-echelon models and require leaps in purchase price.
Hyundai Exter: Market Positioning
The Exter will face tough competition from the likes of Tata Punch, Renault Kiger, and Nissan Magnite, all of which are established players in the segment.
Hyundai’s strategy contrasts with aggressive base prices with the premium look and a long list of features, even available equipment, along with the industry’s best warranty.
The Exter is an important product for Hyundai as it will be vying for the first-time car buyer, who is now getting enticed towards the micro-SUV space instead of conventional hatchbacks.
The success of vehicle shows that the market sentiment is tilting towards crossover looks and a high-seating position even at an accessible price point, further reinforcing that the cookie of India’s entry level auto space is increasingly crumbling toward lifestyle oriented micro SUVs as opposed to pragmatic hatches.