COMPACT SUVS

The Hyundai Exter: A Compact SUV for the City and Beyond The Hyundai Exter, launched in 2023, has carved a niche for itself in the competitive compact SUV segment in India. This feature-packed car offers a compelling blend of style, performance, fuel efficiency, and safety, making it a strong contender for both urban commuters and those who crave occasional outdoor adventures. Design and Interiors The Exter boasts a contemporary design with split headlamps, a cascading grille, and sculpted bumpers. The chrome accents and blacked-out elements add a touch of sophistication. The Exter comes in nine colour options, including monotone and dual-tone choices, allowing you to personalize your ride. Inside, the Exter offers a spacious and comfortable cabin with seating for five. The quality of materials is impressive, and the overall design is clean and functional. The dashboard layout is user-friendly, and the touchscreen infotainment system is intuitive and responsive. Higher trims come equipped with features like a wireless charger, rear AC vents, and a segment-unique dashboard camera, adding to the convenience and comfort. Performance and Handling The Exter is available in three powertrain options: a 1.2-litre Kappa petrol engine with either a 5-speed manual transmission (MT) or a Smart Auto AMT, and a 1.2-litre bi-fuel Kappa engine that runs on both petrol and CNG, also mated to a 5-speed MT. While not a powerhouse, the petrol engine delivers adequate performance for city driving and occasional highway runs. The CNG option makes the Exter a more economical choice, ideal for those seeking lower running costs. The Exter's handling is commendable, with a well-balanced suspension that absorbs bumps effectively. The steering feedback is precise, making manoeuvring in tight spaces a breeze. However, some reviewers have noted that the car could benefit from a slightly stiffer suspension for a more sporty feel. Fuel Efficiency The Exter impresses with its fuel efficiency. The petrol engine delivers a claimed mileage of between 19.2 km/l and 19.4 km/l, while the CNG variant boasts a claimed mileage of 27.1 km/kg. These figures are impressive for a compact SUV and make the Exter a wallet-friendly option in the long run. Safety Safety is a priority for Hyundai, and the Exter is packed with safety features. It comes equipped with six airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, and a host of other features. Higher trims offer additional safety features like a rear parking camera, TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System), and a segment-first dashboard camera, providing an extra layer of security. While the Exter has not been crash-tested by Global NCAP, the abundance of safety features inspires confidence. Overall Opinion The Hyundai Exter is a well-rounded compact SUV that offers a good balance of style, performance, fuel efficiency, and safety. It's a strong contender for those seeking a feature-rich and practical car for city commutes and occasional highway trips. The spacious cabin, comfortable ride, and impressive fuel efficiency make it a compelling choice for small families or young professionals. If you're looking for a powerful engine or a luxurious interior, the Exter might not be the perfect fit. However, for those prioritizing practicality, value for money, and a comfortable driving experience, the Hyundai Exter is definitely worth considering.