One of the leading carmakers, Hyundai has rolled out the first unit of its upcoming SUV, the Exter. The carmaker started the product Exter from the manufacturing plant in Sriperumbudur near Chennai, on the 23rd of June 2023.
The upcoming Hyundai Exter will be positioned between Grand i10 Nios and Venue in their portfolio. However, Hyundai will launch the Exter on the 10th of July 2023.
About Hyundai Exter
The Hyundai Exter is a sub-4 metre micro-SUV that will be positioned between the Venue and Grand i10 Nios. Built on the k1 platform, the Exter shares its foundation with other Hyundai siblings like the Aura and Nios. With its distinctive design, the Exter features a parametric grille, split headlights with H-shaped daytime running lights (DRLs), and an upright nose. The SUV’s bumpers are equipped with skid plates which adds to its rugged appeal.
The side profile of the Exter features a boxy design, squared wheel arches, roof rails, and cladding enhancing SUV character. The new Hyundai Exter sits on dual-tone alloy wheels. The rear profile of the Exter features an H-shaped signature LED taillights resembling the front DRLs. The carmaker has also added a spoiler with a stop lamp, shark fin antenna, and rear wiper.
Interior and Features of Hyundai Exter
The new Exter offers a stylish black-themed interior. Inside the cabin, you’ll find semi-leatherette upholstery that adds a touch of luxury. What sets the Exter apart are the unique green accents on the AC vents, adding a vibrant and distinctive touch. In terms of technology, the SUV is equipped with a multifunctional steering wheel with tilt adjustment, an 8-inch infotainment system, and a digital instrument cluster.
The infotainment system is packed with convenient connectivity features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluelink, etc. Moreover, the SUV offers a range of comfort-oriented features. These include a rear camera, dual dash cam, ISOFIX child seat mounts, TMPS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System), and standard six airbags. Furthermore, the Exter comes with a sunroof, voice commands, keyless entry, and ignition, a wireless charger, and cruise control for a comfortable driving experience.
Powertrain, Variants, Pricing, and Rivals
The new Hyundai Exter will be powered by a 1.2L 4-cylinder Kappa-series naturally aspirated VTVT petrol engine. This engine is BS6 phase-2 compliant and churns out 82hp of power and 114nm of torque output. However, in CNG mode, this engine produces 68hp of power and 95nm of torque output. This engine will be mated to either a 5-speed manual transmission or a convenient AMT transmission. The carmaker will offer the CNG version of the Exter as well.
Hyundai will introduce the Exter in seven different variants, namely the EX, EX(o), S, S(o), SX, SX (o), and SX (o) Connect. The ex-showroom price range for the Exter is expected to be between Rs. 6 lakhs to 11 lakhs. Following its launch, the Hyundai Exter will face competition from Maruti Fronx, Tata Punch, Citroen C3, Nissan Magnite, and Renault Kiger.
Official Statement
Commenting on the start of production of the Hyundai EXTER, Mr. Unsoo Kim, MD & CEO, of Hyundai Motor India Ltd. said, “At Hyundai we have always been driven to establish the industry’s best manufacturing processes, achieving product excellence, thus inducing an elevated sense of delights amongst our beloved customers. With optimum utilization of Industry 4.0 automation, HMIL’s state-of-the-art production facility harmoniously integrates over 700 – 4th generation robots and a highly skilled HMIL workforce to create superior mobility experiences for our customers. With the Hyundai EXTER, we are venturing into a new segment that further enhances HMIL’s position as a full-range SUV manufacturer.”