Hyundai Exter Production Starts Ahead Of Launch

Hyundai Motor India Limited has just started production of the upcoming Exter in India. The sub-compact SUV is slated to launch next month on July 10, with bookings already under way. Upon launch, the 2023 Exter will be the smallest SUV in the brand’s lineup.

Hyundai Exter: What Is It?

The Hyundai Exter will be the fifth SUV model in Hyundai India’s lineup, following the Tucson, Alcazar, Creta, and the Venue. Based on the same platform as the Grand i10 Nios, it follows Hyundai’s Sensuous Sportiness design language.

Up front, the Exter gets a parametric grille, H-shaped LED DRLs and a faux aluminium skid plate. Move to the side and you’ll notice the micro-SUVs upright and squared-off stance with chunky wheel arches, body cladding and roof rails.

At the rear, it gets LED taillights with an H motif, bootlid spoiler and a large faux skid plate.

Hyundai Exter: Interior Design and Features

Moving inside, the interior of the Exter is quite similar to the Grand i10 Nios. The steering wheel and the 8-inch infotainment system are the same as the hatchback’s, but are now finished in a black trim. Additionally, the brushed-aluminium trim on the dashboard is new.

In terms of features, the Exter will get a fully digital instrument cluster, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, connected car tech, auto climate control, ambient lighting, and more.

The Exter will also be the first vehicle in the segment to get a dashcam and an electric sunroof. The former can record both the outside and cabin view. It also has three recording modes - Driving (normal), Event (safety) and Vacation (timelapse). Meanwhile, the single-pane sunroof can be operated hands-free via voice commands.

Hyundai Exter: Powertrain Details

The new Exter will be powered by a 1.2-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine that makes 82 bhp with 115 Nm of max torque. Hyundai will also offer a CNG variant that makes 69 bhp with 95 Nm of peak torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and an AMT gearbox. Upon launch, the Exter will become the first Hyundai SUV to not get any diesel options.

Hyundai Exter: Pricing and Rivals

Prices of the Exter will be revealed on July 10. Expect it to be priced around Rs 6 lakh - Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom). The micro-SUV will compete against the likes of the Maruti Ignis, Tata Punch, and Citroen C3