There is a lot of enthusiasm among the buyers due to the arrival of the new SUV Hyundai Exter in the Indian market. But then, there is also a confusion related to the division of the vehicle. Some are calling it an entry level SUV, some are calling it a sub-compact SUV, some are calling it a micro SUV. But what matters is that this car has actually created a strong competition in the sub 4-meter SUV segment of India.
Despite being the smallest and most affordable SUV from the South Korean automaker, the Hyundai Xtor promises several first-in-segment features among other things. I recently got a chance to experience the car in Jaipur to understand what makes the Hyundai Xtor so special and here’s our first drive review.
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Hyundai Xter: Design
The first thing that comes to my mind after seeing the Hyundai Exter is how young and energetic it looks! The design language of the SUV is very square, giving it an SUV-like look, especially from the back profile, which according to me is the best angle to view the car. You get an old-school big black plate that connects the tail lamps and a big skid plate, which gives it a solid appeal.
While the sides get big black wheel arches, roof rails and 185mm of ground clearance, the front is a different ball game altogether. It has a modern appeal due to a thin black line connecting the H-shaped headlights, followed by an embossed EXTER name, a less large and wider grille and also a skid plate. However, the sloping profile fails to give the Exeter a big SUV appeal from the front. Overall, the Hyundai Xtor looks interesting and trendy, but lacks the SUV appeal.
Hyundai Xter: Cabin
Hyundai has always been at the forefront of launching feature-laden cars in India and the Exter is no less. Despite being the smallest and most affordable SUV from the brand, it packs all the features and highlights that a car in this segment has to offer. You get things like cooled glovebox, 8-inch infotainment system with BlueLink connected car functionality, 4.2-inch multi-info TFT display and many more.
For me, the standout features have to be the voice-controlled sunroof and the smart dashcam with dual cameras for selfies, both of which are first in the segment. Also, the Hyundai Xtor gets 6 airbags as standard, which is a big deal for a car of this size and price. In terms of other safety features, the Exeter gets ESP, ESC, TPMS (Highline) and more.
Speaking of practicality, anyone who is looking to buy an entry-level SUV rather than a hatchback is primarily looking for practicality and in that sense, the Hyundai Xtor provides a reliable offering to the buyers. It gets a huge space inside the cabin which is enough for 5-full adults. The boot is rated at 391-boot, which is one of the biggest not only in the subcompact SUV space but also in the segment above.
Hyundai Xter: Engine
The Hyundai Xtor is offered with two engine options: a 1.2-litre petrol engine and the same engine with a CNG kit. While the petrol engine outputs 83 PS and 114 Nm, the CNG option outputs 69 PS and 95 Nm. In terms of gearbox options, there is a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed Smart AMT option. The key takeaway here is that the AMT, for the first time in India, comes with paddle shifters, a technology you see in DCT gearboxes.
In terms of mileage, the petrol engine delivers a fuel efficiency of 19.2 kmpl, and the CNG variant returns 27.1 km/kg average. Talking about the ride experience, I found the Exeter to be extremely refined and with highly controlled NVH levels. As soon as you put your foot on the accelerator, you realize how smooth the motor is and the gearbox complements it well.
The Hyundai Xtor offers a very well-tuned ride quality coupled with 185 mm of ground clearance and refined suspension which absorbs most of the bumps and ruts as well. The steering feedback was soft for my liking, but that has been the case with almost all Hyundai cars. Overall, I really liked the driving dynamics and ride quality of the Hyundai Xtor.
Decision
First things first, what exactly is the Hyundai Xeter? Well, it is actually a sub 4-meter SUV that rivals the Tata Punch and the Citroen C3 and is positioned below the Venue, which is another sub 4-meter SUV in Hyundai’s product lineup. The Hyundai Exter is priced at Rs 6 lakh (ex-showroom, introductory), which is on par with the Tata Punch, and slightly cheaper than the Citroen C3.
At this price, the Hyundai Xtor is coming with features like a youthful look, sunroof and standard 6 airbags and an incredible power unit along with refined ride quality. Without a doubt, the Xeter makes more sense than a premium hatchback and is a great package for those who want to spend less than Rs 10 lakh but need a car packed with practicality, features and comfort.