GOOD FOR: Well equipped, easy to drive
LOOK OUT FOR: AMT gearbox health, electrical niggles
The Hyundai Exter was launched in 2023 in the sub-compact SUV segment to rival the Tata Punch and Citroën C3. The Exter stands out for its user-friendliness, lengthy equipment list and practicality, making it worth considering as a used buy. However, there are a few specifics worth knowing before you sign on the dotted line.
Hyundai Exter powertrain and mileage
1.2-litre 4-cylinder petrol and CNG options
The Exter comes with a naturally aspirated 1.2-litre petrol engine that produces 83hp and 114Nm, and can be had with a 5-speed manual or an AMT auto gearbox. There’s even a CNG version, which puts out 69hp and 95.2Nm, available exclusively with the manual gearbox. In terms of fuel efficiency, the petrol MT is rated at 19.4kpl, while the petrol AMT is said to do 19.2kpl. The Exter CNG is claimed to do 27.1km/kg.
The petrol manual is a smooth powertrain with a refined engine and a light clutch, making it a good option for most. But if your driving is majorly in city confines, and you want greater convenience, the AMT will make more sense. The CNG, meanwhile, is the one to go for if you have a lot of running and want lower running costs. Interestingly, early CNG Exters had one large cylinder in the boot, while the later ‘Duo’ versions have a split-tank setup under the boot floor. Hence, the latter has a properly usable boot, so if you are looking for a CNG Exter, go for the ‘Duo’ version.
Hyundai Exter variants and features
Sunroof, 8-inch touchscreen, auto climate control, dual-channel dashcam, and more
The Exter is offered in five main trim levels – EX, S, SX, SX(O) and SX(O) Connect. Hyundai also launched a Knight Edition later, which brought in a predominantly black theme. As for the features, the range-topping SX(O) Connect comes loaded with kit like automatic projector headlamps, 15-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry and go, an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automatic climate control, wireless phone charger, cruise control, in-built navigation, connected car tech and rear AC vents.
The SUV even brought in two segment-first features – a single-pane sunroof and a factory-fitted dashcam with dual cameras (front and rear). Safety features on higher trims include six airbags, ESC, hill assist control, rear parking sensors and camera, three-point seat belts and seat belt reminders for all seats, and ISOFIX child-seat anchorages.
If your budget permits, opt for the top-spec SX(O) Connect version given all the features it gets. However, the mid-spec SX also represents great value, as it gets the sunroof, alloy wheels, camera, touchscreen, TPMS, and more.
Exter warranty and aftersales
The Exter comes with Hyundai’s 3-year/1,00,000km standard warranty, and buyers could even choose to have it extended. Given that the Exter is less than 3 years old, used examples you’re looking at will still be covered under warranty. What should also give you more peace of mind is Hyundai’s widespread service network and the fact that spare parts are readily available throughout the country.
What to look out for in a used Hyundai Exter
AMT gearbox health
If you’re looking at an AMT, take a test drive and make sure the car rolls off the line smoothly. Also ensure that the shifts, especially the downshifts, aren’t jerky. AMTs are generally known to be reliable, but it’s always a good idea to check before you purchase.
Electrical niggles
Check that the touchscreen functions smoothly and pairs with your phone easily. Although not common, some owners have faced issues like the screen freezing and the phone randomly disconnecting. Also make sure that the system’s software is up-to-date. Check that all electronics work as intended – screens, sunroof, connected car features and voice-enabled functions – and that there are no persistent error lights in the cluster.
Consumables and bodywork rust/damage
Before any used purchase, it’s always a good idea to check consumable parts like brake pads, tyres and suspension bushings for wear. Also check that the sunroof seals are intact, and look at the underbody for any signs of rust or damage, especially if the car has spent time in coastal or humid climates.
Second hand Hyundai Exter price and resale value
Rs 5 lakh-8 lakh
Since the Exter is a fairly new model and the fact that it’s a Hyundai, it has held its value quite well in the used market. However, refrain from spending over Rs 8 lakh for a top-spec model, as you’d be better off buying a new one instead.
All prices are ex-showroom, India.
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Saumil Shah
Saptarshi Mondal
Dipan Sur
Uday Singh
