Hyundai Exter : Dodging Mohali’s notorious traffic snarls or hauling the family for a quick getaway to nearby Chandigarh eateries, the Hyundai Exter shines as that no-nonsense compact SUV blending city smarts with surprising space.

Launched back in 2023, this sub-4-meter wonder keeps evolving into 2026 with prices starting at Rs 6.05 lakh ex-showroom and stretching to Rs 10.5 lakh for top CNG AMT trims, offering killer value against Tata Punch and Maruti Fronx rivals. Hyundai packs it with features once reserved for bigger wallets, making it a go-to for first-time buyers craving SUV attitude without the premium pain.​

Boxy Boldness That Stands Tall

Eye one parked curbside, and the Exter’s upright stance grabs you instantly—blocky headlights with C-shaped DRLs stack above a gaping grille, flanked by chunky skid plates that scream rugged without trying too hard.

At 3,815 mm long, 1,710 mm wide, and boasting 185 mm ground clearance, it towers over hatches, conquering flooded streets or village paths effortlessly during Punjab monsoons. 15-inch alloys or steelies fill the wells nicely, dual-tone roofs in Starry Blue or Cosmic Gold adding flair that turns heads at Sector 70 malls.

The rear’s squared-off tailgate with bold lettering and wraparound tails feels purposeful, roof rails begging for rooftop carriers on weekend trips. Sharp creases run the flanks, black cladding protecting against stray branches—practical poetry in motion. Shorter drivers love the 185 mm hip point; it feels commanding, not cramped.​

Punchy Kappa Engine Choices

Twist the key on the 1.2-litre naturally aspirated Kappa petrol, and 82 PS at 6,000 rpm pairs with 114 Nm from 4,000 rpm for peppy pulls—5-speed manual slots crisp, AMT auto smooths stop-go misery.

CNG variants drop to 69 PS but claim 27.1 km/kg, real-world city sips hitting 24 km/kg from twin tanks, perfect amid fuel spikes crossing Rs 100. ARAI petrol figures nudge 19.4-20.6 kmpl, highway runs often better at 22 kmpl with light foot—37-litre tank promises 700 km range worry-free.

Idle start-stop tech cuts signal waste, no turbo lag drama, just linear shove suiting 80% urban blasts. Overtakes feel assured below 100 kmph, cabin hushed above 3,000 rpm. Hyundai’s dual-cylinder CNG tech shrinks boot intrusion smartly, no awkward tank lumps.​

Cabin Cleverness Maximized

Step aboard, and airy dual-tone interiors wrap you snug—soft-touch dash, silver accents elevating beyond plastics. The 8-inch touchscreen blasts wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (top trims), voice commands nailing “play Punjabi beats” or “navigate to Rock Garden.” Rear AC vents chill kids quick, cooled glovebox keeps water bottles frosty in summer scorchers.

Digital cluster swaps speed, fuel, and door status crisp, paddle shifters on AMT adding engagement. Sunroof (voice-activated SX(O) up) floods light, ventilated seats a boon for long-ish drives. Boot gapes 391 litres, folding 60:40 benches expand it—groceries, sports gear, no sweat. Height-adjustable driver throne and tilt tiller nail fit for all heights.​

Features That Overdeliver Daily

Cruise control eases highway slogs, keyless entry with push-button start feels posh, auto AC with clusters remembers settings. Wireless charging pads phones, USBs front-rear, ambient lighting sets night moods. 360-camera (top-spec) parks like a pro in tight bazaars, dashcam records mishaps.

ADAS Level 1 on select trims—lane keep, forward collision warning—adds safety without confusion. JioSaavn integration, Bluelink telematics ping location or precondition remotely. Niggle? Base skips some toys, but mid-specs balance perfect.

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Ride Tuned for Rough Realities

Hit the road, and independent front suspension (McPherson) pairs twist-beam rear to iron out potholes brutally—Mohali’s broken bitumen barely registers. Steering weighs light yet precise, U-turn radius tight at 5.1 meters. Discs front, drums rear with ABS haul composed, 185 mm clearance kissing breakers goodbye.

FWD traction holds wet grip, ESC and hill-hold prevent rollbacks. Cabin stays serene at 100 kmph, minimal wind rush. It’s no corner-carver, but planted poise trumps floaty rivals on undulating state highways.​​

Safety Loaded From Day One

Six airbags standard across board now—a rarity here—plus ABS, EBD, TPMS, and rear camera with guidelines. ISOFIX anchors secure car seats, 3-point belts everywhere, tyre pressure nags early. Global NCAP five-star potential shines through rigid chassis, no skimping even on base EX.

Electronic stability, auto door locks speed-sensing, impact-sensing unlock—family fortress without fuss.​

Ownership Hassle-Free Wins

Hyundai’s Punjab network buzzes quick, services every 10,000 km at Rs 3,500-5,000 yearly. 3-year/unlimited km warranty extends easy, CNG slashes costs to Rs 2/km. Resale holds firm, boot practical despite CNG. Gripes? AMT hunts gears occasionally, rear drums fade heavy rain—but upgrades beckon.​

EMI starts Rs 2,500 monthly, deals abound January sales.

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Hyundai Exter Conclusion : Everyday Champion Redefined

The Hyundai Exter dominates 2026 as the micro-SUV marrying space, safety, and smarts into unbeatable sub-10 lakh joy. Tailored for urban hustlers juggling commutes, kids, and cravings, it outpaces segment with zero compromises. Swing by a Hyundai outlet, feel that perch—your next drive awaits transformation. In crowded lanes, Exter doesn’t just fit; it conquers.