Hyundai has just revealed its micro SUV called the Hyundai Exter. It is set to change the landscape of the micro SUV segment which was till now ruled by Tata with its massively popular Punch.
Hyundai Exter
Hyundai Exter shares the same basic platform as its sibling, the i10 Nios. It is packed with segment-leading features and boasts a design suited for the outdoorsy person. Moreover, it utilizes the same 1.2L 4-cylinder petrol engine, known as the Kappa engine, which generates 83PS of power and 113Nm of torque, similar to the i10 Nios. Besides it is also equipped with the same 5-speed manual/AMT transmission. However, when operating in CNG mode, this engine delivers 69PS of power and 95Nm of torque.
Tata Punch
Tata Punch shares Tata’s ALFA architecture with the Altroz, which is recognized for its strong emphasis on safety. Additionally, the Punch itself has achieved a remarkable 5-star rating from Global NCAP, indicating its high level of safety. Its unique and appealing design has resonated positively with customers, contributing to its significant popularity. Furthermore, the Punch is highly regarded for its solid construction and durability, which adds to its overall attractiveness in the market.
Hyundai Exter and Tata Punch Safety Features
Hyundai has massively upped its safety game by adding a ton of features including 6 airbags as standard across the board. Moreover, the structure of the new Hyundai Exter is loaded with a strong body featuring advanced and high-strength steel.
| Hyundai Exter | Tata Punch |
| 6 Airbags as Standard | 2 Airbags only |
| ESC and VSM | No ESC |
| No Crash Rating Yet | 5-Star Global NCAP rating |
| ABS with EBD | ABS with EBD |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring System | No Tyre Pressure Monitoring System |
| Hill Assist Control | No Hill Assist |
Hyundai Exter and Tata Punch Infotainment and Other Features
Hyundai Exter showcases an all-black themed interior with the dashboard layout borrowed from the Grand i10 Nios. The cabin is covered with semi-leatherette upholstery and with unique and funky accents on the AC vents, adding a touch of personality. Furthermore, the Exter boasts a well-designed dashboard with convenient features, including a multifunctional steering wheel with tilt adjustment and pioneering paddle shifters, a first in its segment.
The Tata Punch has fresh and youthful exteriors, and its interior matches that style with equal flair. Getting in and out of the vehicle is effortless, even for older individuals, thanks to doors that open up to 90 degrees. However, the Punch also offers a higher seating position, providing added convenience. The layered dashboard design is visually appealing, accompanied by rectangular air vents that add a touch of sophistication. The use of contrasting white panels, textured plastics, and other materials not only enhances the overall aesthetic appeal but also imparts a premium feel. Furthermore, the Punch shares its free-standing touchscreen, climate control buttons, steering wheel, and part-digital instrument cluster with the Altroz premium hatchback, further elevating the interior’s appeal.
| Hyundai Exter | Tata Punch |
| Electric Sunroof | No Electric Sunroof |
| Alexa Voice Commands | Voice Commands |
| 8-inch Infotainment Screen | 7-inch Infotainment Screen |
| Dash Cam | No Dash Cam |
| 10 Regional and 2 global languages in cluster | Digital Cluster with 7 inch TFT screen |
| 10 Regional and 2 global languages in the cluster | No regional Languages |
| Wireless Charger | No Wireless Charger |
| Rear View Camera | Rear View Camera |
| Rear AC Vents | No Rear AC vents |
| Cruise Control | Cruise Control |
| Paddle Shifters | No Paddle Shifters |
| Rear Wiper | Rear Wiper |
| Bluelink Connectivity | IRA Connected Tech |
| Auto Fold Mirrors | Auto Fold Mirrors |
| Type-C Charging | USB-A Charging |
Hyundai Exter and Tata Punch Performance and Dimensions
| Hyundai Exter | Tata Punch |
| Engine- 1.2 L Kappa Engine | Engine- 1.2 L Revotron Engine |
| Power- 83PS , Torque- 114NM | Power- 87.78PS , Torque- 115NM |
| Cylinders- 4 | Cylinders- 3 |
| 175/65- R15 Diamond Cut Alloys | 195/65- R16 Diamond Cut Alloys |
| CNG Option Available | No CNG Option Available |
| LxWxH- 3815x1710x1631 mm | LxWxH- 3827x1742x1615 mm |
| Wheelbase- 2450mm | Wheelbase –2445mm |
| Ground Clearance –185mm | Ground Clearance –187mm |
| Transmission- 5 speed Manual/AMT | Transmission- 5 speed Manual/AMT |
| Mileage- 19.4kmpl | Mileage- 20.09 kmpl |
Conclusion
There is no doubt that the brand-new Hyundai Exter is more feature-rich when compared to the Tata Punch. It boasts new segment-leading/segment-first features. However, it does compromise on a few aspects. For example, the Punch offers bigger wheels with wider tires, as well as approximately 4.7 PS more power and 2 NM more torque. Additionally, the Punch has slightly better mileage. Tata Punch is also slightly more affordable than the Hyundai Exter in the top-level trim.
| Hyundai Exter SX(O) | Tata Punch Creative IRA DT |
| Price- Rs 9.32 Lakh | Price – 8.92 Lakh |