Hyundai Exter HX6 Knight AMT

Namaste and welcome to our latest car review here at DriveSmart India. Buying a new car in India is a big decision, right? You're not just looking for a ride; you're looking for a partner that fits your budget, keeps your family safe, doesn't break the bank with monthly maintenance, offers the latest features, and comes with reliable company service. Well, if those are your checkboxes, you've likely heard the buzz around Hyundai's latest offering. Today, we're diving deep into a specific variant that's been turning heads: the new Hyundai Exter HX6 Knight AMT. Is this the compact SUV you've been waiting for? Let's find out!

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

Under the hood, the Hyundai Exter HX6 Knight AMT houses Hyundai's trusted 1.2-litre Kappa petrol engine. This four-cylinder unit is known for its refinement and fuel efficiency.

• Engine Type: 1.2L Kappa Petrol
• Cylinders: 4
• Max Power: 82bhp at 6000rpm
• Max Torque: 113.8 Nm at 4,000 rpm
• Transmission: Automated Manual Transmission (AMT)

Design Overview

The Exter makes a strong statement with its unique design.

• Exterior: It boasts a bold SUV stance with a boxy silhouette. The front features distinctive H-signature LED DRLs and a parametric design grille, giving it a modern and robust look. The HX6 Knight AMT variant enhances this appeal with specific Knight Edition styling elements like blacked-out grille, skid plates, roof rails, and alloy wheels, coupled with red inserts on the bumpers and brake calipers for a sporty touch.
• Interior: Step inside, and you're greeted by a spacious and practical cabin. The Knight Edition brings an all-black interior theme with red inserts around the AC vents and upholstery stitching, adding a premium and youthful feel. The layout is ergonomic, with good visibility and easy-to-reach controls. The digital instrument cluster adds to the modern appeal.

Key Features

The Hyundai Exter HX6 Knight AMT is loaded with features that elevate your driving experience.

• Infotainment Screen: 8-inch HD Touchscreen Infotainment System
• Connectivity: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Hyundai Bluelink Connected Car Technology
• Sunroof: Electric Single-Pane Sunroof with Voice Commands
• Camera: 360-degree Surround View Camera
• Charging: Wireless Phone Charger
• Climate Control: Automatic Climate Control
• Dashcam: Dual Camera Dashcam with multiple recording modes
• Convenience: Paddle Shifters (for AMT), Rear AC Vents, Cruise Control

What is the Ground Clearance of Hyundai Exter?

The Hyundai Exter offers a healthy 185 mm of ground clearance, which is excellent for tackling Indian road conditions and speed breakers with ease.

What is the Boot Space of Hyundai Exter?

The boot space stands at a generous 391 litres, providing ample room for your luggage on weekend trips or grocery runs.

What are the Dimensions of Hyundai Exter?

• Length: 3830mm
• Width: 1723 mm

Height: 1643 mmWheelbase: 2450 mm

Powertrain Options

While the HX6 Knight AMT specifically features the 1.2L petrol engine with an AMT gearbox, the Hyundai Exter range also offers:

• 1.2L Kappa Petrol with 5-speed Manual Transmission (MT)
• 1.2L Kappa Petrol with 5-speed Automated Manual Transmission (AMT)
• 1.2L Bi-Fuel (Petrol with CNG) with 5-speed Manual Transmission (MT)

Safety Features

Hyundai has put a strong emphasis on safety with the Exter, especially with this top-end variant.

• Standard Safety: 6 Airbags (driver, passenger, side, curtain) are standard across all variants, which is a segment-first and a huge plus for Indian buyers.
• Advanced Safety: ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), Hill Start Assist Control (HAC), Rear Parking Sensors, Rear Parking Camera, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and ISOFIX child seat mounts.

NCAP Rating Table

Many prospective buyers keenly watch crash test ratings.

While the Hyundai Exter's official NCAP ratings are awaited, the inclusion of 6 airbags as standard across all variants and a strong suite of safety features is highly commendable and indicates Hyundai's commitment to safety.

Rivals of Hyundai Exter HX6 Knight AMT

The Hyundai Exter HX6 Knight AMT competes in a hotly contested segment in India. Its main rivals include:

• Tata Punch
• Maruti Suzuki Ignis
• Citroen C3
• Nissan Magnite
• Renault Kiger

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Advantages

• Feature-Rich: The Exter HX6 Knight AMT is packed with segment-first features like a dashcam, voice-enabled sunroof, and 360-degree camera.
• Safety First: Standard 6 airbags across all variants is a significant safety advantage. ESC, VSM, HAC further bolster its safety credentials.

Stylish Design: The bold SUV styling, especially with the Knight Edition's blacked-out elements and red accents, makes it stand out.Refined Engine: The 1.2L Kappa engine is smooth, refined, and offers good fuel efficiency for city driving.AMT Convenience: The AMT gearbox makes city commutes incredibly easy and stress-free, with the added benefit of paddle shifters for a sportier feel.Spacious Cabin: Good headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers, making it comfortable for four adults.Hyundai Service Network: Hyundai's widespread service network in India ensures peace of mind for maintenance and repairs.

Disadvantages

• Engine Performance: While refined, the 1.2L engine can feel a bit underpowered for spirited highway overtakes when fully loaded.

Rear Seat Width: While there's good legroom, accommodating three adults comfortably in the rear seat over longer journeys might be a squeeze.AMT Jerkiness: Like most AMTs, there can be a slight head-nod or jerkiness during gear shifts, especially at lower speeds, though Hyundai's AMT is one of the better tuned ones.Pricing: As a top-end variant with all features, the HX6 Knight AMT's price point might feel a bit premium compared to some base or mid-variants of rivals.

Conclusion

The Hyundai Exter HX6 Knight AMT emerges as a very strong contender in the micro SUV segment. It ticks almost all the boxes for the modern Indian car buyer: it's stylish, incredibly feature-rich, boasts an impressive list of safety equipment, and offers the convenience of an automatic transmission for urban driving. While the engine isn't a powerhouse and the AMT might have minor quirks common to the technology, its overall package is compelling. If you're looking for a compact SUV that offers a premium experience, ensures your family's safety with standard 6 airbags, comes loaded with technology, and looks distinctive on the road, the Hyundai Exter HX6 Knight AMT should definitely be on your test drive list. It's a smart choice for those seeking a practical yet aspirational urban companion. Happy driving!