Car Review: Hyundai Exter – Small Package, Big Punch

I had the Hyundai Exter for 7 days and honestly, I was taken aback. Don’t let the compact look fool you. This little SUV punches above its weight in both space and efficiency. 

From the outside, it has a bold and edgy vibe. The stylish front grille, Hyundai’s signature H-shaped LED daytime running lights, a solid front skid plate, HL LED tail lamps, and a dynamic black rear spoiler all come together to give it an urban-cool, ready-for-anything look. 

Step inside and you're greeted with comfort and practicality. Rear AC vents, multiple USB charging ports, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system all add to the premium feel. The interior layout is clean and user-friendly. But what really stood out for me was how spacious it is. I genuinely believe Hyundai could have squeezed in a smaller third row of seats and turned it into a 7-seater. That would have made it a serious contender for e-hailing drivers looking for compact 7-seaters. 

The Exter runs on a 1.2-litre 4-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine that delivers 61 kilowatts and 114 Newton meters of torque. It is not built for speed but for everyday use it is more than capable. You get the option of a 5-speed manual or a smart automatic manual transmission. I had the manual and it was surprisingly smooth and fun to drive. Light clutch and easy gear shifts make it perfect for city traffic. 

In terms of fuel efficiency, it is impressive. With an average of 5.7 litres per 100 kilometers, you will definitely feel the difference at the pump. Safety-wise, Hyundai has gone the extra mile. The Exter comes with six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, and hill-start assist. 

Now here is where it gets even more interesting. It is priced quite close to the Hyundai Grand i10, but you get much more value. Bigger dimensions, more features, and a design that feels more SUV than budget hatchback. It also comes with a 5-year or 150,000-kilometer vehicle warranty and a 7-year or 200,000-kilometer drivetrain warranty. 

My only personal downside is the shape. I am not a huge fan of how it looks from the outside. It is a bit too boxy for my taste. But when you consider everything else it offers, that becomes easy to overlook. 

Final Verdict: 8 out of 10
Efficient, spacious, tech-savvy, and great value for money. The Hyundai Exter is perfect as a daily driver for students, professionals, or small families who want more space without going full SUV.