The micro-SUV market has suddenly become abuzz with the introduction of the Hyundai Exter. For quite some time, the Punch had comfortably held its ground as the reigning champ in this segment since its launch last year. However, the arrival of the Exter has stirred things up for Tata, injecting new energy with its twin-cylinder technology and an array of fresh features. Both the Exter and the Punch now offer CNG variants, raising the stakes even higher. In this article, we’ll delve into the showdown between the Punch CNG and Exter CNG, exploring their dimensions, specifications, innovative technologies, features, and pricing.
Dimensions Duel
To kick things off, let’s examine the dimensions of these contenders. The Punch measures 3,827mm in length, 1,742mm in width, and stands 1,615mm tall. With a wheelbase of 2,445mm and a ground clearance of 187mm, it stands proudly. On the other hand, the Exter stretches 3,815mm in length, stands 1,710mm tall, and spans 1,631mm in width. It rides on a wheelbase of 2,450mm and maintains a ground clearance of 185mm. In this department, the two rivals stand shoulder to shoulder.
CNG Specifications Clash
Focusing on their CNG capabilities, we’ll dive into the power figures. The Punch CNG features a 1.2-liter naturally aspirated engine, churning out 72.4bhp and a torque of 103Nm. However, all this power can be harnessed through a manual gearbox – no automatic option in this comparison.
Meanwhile, the Exter CNG packs a 1.2-liter naturally aspirated engine as well, but it slightly tones down the output with 68bhp and 95.2Nm of torque when running on CNG. Just like its counterpart, the Exter CNG exclusively comes with a manual gearbox.
The Twin-Cylinder Triumph
A noteworthy aspect of this comparison is Tata’s twin-cylinder technology. This innovation addresses a significant drawback of CNG cars, particularly space. Whereas the Punch i-CNG boasts a spacious 210 liters of boot capacity, a substantial advantage over the Exter’s relatively limited storage. Here, the Punch takes the lead, courtesy of Tata’s ingenious engineering. Punch makes a great choice for family oriented buyers.
Feature Face-Off
Both contenders come prepared with a range of features to captivate potential buyers. The Punch recently upped its game with a sunroof, center armrest, iTPMs, and Xpress cool. It also boasts a cooled glove box, automatic headlamps, and a semi-digital instrument cluster. Plus, let’s not forget the impressive 5-star crash test rating, a testament to the Punch’s safety credentials.
The Exter, however, counters with an extensive list of offerings. It proudly flaunts an electric sunroof, wireless charging, cruise control, a digital instrument cluster, an 8.0-inch infotainment system, and automatic climate control. Safety-wise, it’s equipped with six airbags (standard), TPMS, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, hill start assist control, and Vehicle stability management.
In terms of features it is very hard to beat the Exter. Because, it is the most feature loaded car in it’s segment and has some additional features which the Punch does not get, like Six airbags, a Dash cam system, etc.
CNG Pricing Matchup
Finally, let’s talk numbers – the pricing game. The Tata Punch iCNG starts its range from Rs 8.07 lakh, extending up to Rs 10.97 lakh (on-road, Mumbai). In contrast, the Exter CNG’s price spectrum starts from Rs 9.37 lakh, reaching up to Rs 10.18 lakh (on-road, Mumbai). This places the Punch in a relatively more budget-friendly range, potentially attracting cost-conscious buyers.
Conclusion: A Balanced Duel
As the dust settles on this comparison, both the Punch CNG and Exter CNG exhibit their unique strengths and offerings. The Punch shines with its ingenious twin-cylinder technology, spacious boot, and impressive crash test rating. Meanwhile, the Exter pulls out all the stops with a plethora of enticing features for convenience, connectivity, and safety. As consumers make their choices, they’re presented with a delightful conundrum – a choice between Tata’s inventive engineering and the Exter’s feature-packed allure. Whatever the decision, the micro-SUV segment has undoubtedly stepped into an exciting new era with these two rivals.