It’s been just a few weeks since Hyundai launched their all-new Verna sedan here in the Indian market. However, the brand is already busy prepping to launch their next highly anticipated product in the mass market segment, an all-new SUV which has officially been christened as the Exter. The Hyundai Exter will be a compact-SUV which will slot under the Venue in Hyundai’s portfolio. For size reference, the Hyundai Exter would ideally rival the likes of Tata Punch.
Along with the official name reveal, Hyundai has also shared creatives which hint that the Exter will be suited for an outdoor lifestyle, and not just an urban commuter. Hyundai wants to pitch this car as a lifestyle product and not another budget car for the city. Now this is not going to be a proper SUV with AWD or 4×4, we know that, but it should be rough road friendly with some body cladding and higher than usual ground clearance. Since it comes from the Hyundai stable, one can expect quality levels to be top notch, inside & outside.
Hyundai’s new Exter is being pitched to the Gen Z audience. The Exter will be the most affordable SUV from Hyundai, and will join the Venue, Creta, Alcazar, Kona, Tucson & Ioniq 5 in the brands SUV portfolio. Hyundai is expecting that the Exter will drive serious volumes and will help Hyundai to be at the top of the SUV segment in India. This would be the 8th SUV body style from Hyundai for India. The Exter will make a market debut on or before the festive season of 2023, so expect the car to be in showrooms by August 2023.
This all-new Hyundai Exter is a brand new product. It will be based on the same platform which is used by the Grand i10 Nios and this new SUV will not have a diesel engine options. Hyundai could offer 2 petrol engine options, one naturally aspirated and one turbocharged. The Exter could also get a CNG variant in the future, if there is enough demand. Expect the same engine options for now, as seen on the Grand i10 Nios & Aura. Will there be an EV version of it? Only time will tell.
