Hyundai will launch the Exter sub-compact SUV on July 10, its most affordable SUV in India yet. It is based on the same platform as the Grand i10 Nios and Aura, but has a substantially different exterior design than the other two. The Exter will also bring segment-first features like a sunroof and dashcam. Ahead of its launch, here are five key points you should know about the Hyundai Exter.
1. Hyundai Exter will be the first sub-compact CNG SUV
No other sub-compact SUV, be it the Citroen C3, Tata Punch or Maruti Suzuki Ignis, offer a factory-fitted CNG kit. Even the Exter’s likely competition on the higher end – Nissan Magnite and Renault Kiger – don’t come with a CNG kit from the factory. The Exter will get the same 1.2-litre petrol engine and CNG kit as the Grand i10 Nios and Aura.
2. Hyundai Exter will be first in segment with a sunroof
Another segment-first feature for the Exter is the single-pane sunroof, which can also be operated via voice commands. This feature will most likely be offered on the higher variants, but upon launch, the Exter could become the most affordable car or SUV with a sunroof in India.
3. Hyundai Exter first in segment to get a dashcam
Continuing the spree of the segment-first features is the addition of a dashcam on the front windshield, which records both the cabin view and outside view. First introduced in the Venue N Line, the dashcam has three recording modes – Driving (normal), Event (safety) and Vacation (timelapse) – and supports full-HD video resolution. The dashcam also gets a 2.31-inch LCD display as well as smartphone app-based connectivity.
4. Hyundai Exter gets a bold design
The Exter gets a unique design with boxy proportions and an upright stance, and its grille, C-pillar and tail gate feature Hyundai's parametric design language. The Exter gets a split-headlamp design and its LED daytime running lamps and tail-lights get an H pattern. Keeping in line with its rivals, the Exter also has heavy cladding on the wheel arches and doors.
5. Hyundai Exter shares platform with Grand i10 Nios, Aura
As mentioned earlier, the Exter is based on the same K1 platform as the Grand i10 Nios hatchback and Aura compact sedan. It also shares its 1.2-litre petrol and CNG powertrains with the petrol likely to produce the same 83hp and 114Nm of torque. While the petrol engine will be mated to either a 5-speed manual or an AMT, the CNG will only come with the manual gearbox. Along with the powertrain, most of the interior is also shared with its hatchback and sedan sibling.
