Hyundai Exter is the newest entrant into the micro SUV segment from the second largest carmaker in the country.
Hyundai claims that there is no 5-star rated car in the segment of the Exter micro SUV. The second-largest car marque in India has built a reputation for introducing cutting-edge technology, convenience features, modern designs, a variety of powertrain options, and competitive pricing in its product lineup. These qualities were precisely what was needed to compete against the dominant Tata Punch, which currently leads the segment. The Exter, with its exceptional capabilities, aims to surpass the Punch in nearly every aspect. It offers a segment-first, 6 airbags on all variants aiming for a decent rating at the updated Global NCAP test.
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Exter’s Segment has no 5-star Rated Car: Hyundai
During the launch ceremony of the micro SUV, Hyundai said that there is no vehicle in this segment which is 4 or 5-star rated. Now many of you would know that Tata Punch, which is a direct rival to the Exter, boasts a five-star safety rating at GNCAP. But there are some minute specifications in the details. In July last year, Global NCAP updated its testing protocol making it more stringent. Punch was tested by the agency prior to that. Therefore, Hyundai has a point that no car in this segment is 5-star rated according to updated testing norms.
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As per the latest testing regulations, a vehicle must have curtain airbags and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) to qualify for a full 5-star rating even in the base variant. In addition to that, there are various new updates that have been incorporated into the safety testing. Therefore, we can truly say that the Tata Punch would be able to replicate its performance in this updated test. On the other hand, even the Hyundai Exter has not been crash tested yet. As a result, we shall have to wait a bit longer for the official score to come out before drawing any conclusions.
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Specs
The Hyundai Exter presents customers with a choice of two powertrain options. These include a 1.2-litre petrol engine and a 1.2-litre bi-fuel engine that combines both petrol and CNG. The petrol engine delivers peak power and torque of 83 PS / 113.8 Nm, while the bi-fuel engine offers 69 PS / 95.2 Nm. The former can be paired with either a 5-speed manual transmission or an AMT gearbox, while the latter can only be had with the manual. With a commendable fuel efficiency of 19.2 km/l, the micro SUV offers an attractive combination of performance and economy. The Exter is competitively priced between Rs 6 lakh and Rs 10 lakh, ex-showroom, ensuring affordability for potential buyers while providing impressive mileage.