Hyundai Exter S Smart Dual CNG

About Hyundai Exter S Smart Dual CNG

Buying a new car is always exciting, isnt it? But let's be honest, it also comes with a lot of questions. Is it within my budget? How safe is it for my family? What about monthly maintenance costs? Does it have all the latest features I want? And can I count on the company's service network? These are all very important considerations for any Indian car buyer.

Today, we are taking a deep dive into a car that aims to tick many of these boxes, especially if you are looking for an economical yet feature-packed option. We are talking about the new Hyundai Exter S Smart Dual CNG. This compact SUV has been making waves since its launch, and in this specific CNG avatar, it offers a compelling package. Let's explore everything you need to know.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

The Hyundai Exter S Smart Dual CNG is powered by Hyundais reliable 1.2 litre Kappa Bi-Fuel engine. This means it can run on both petrol and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). Here are the key figures:

• Engine Type: 1.2L Kappa Bi-Fuel (Petrol with CNG)
• Cylinders: 4-cylinder
• Displacement: 1197 cc
• Max Power (CNG): 69 PS at 6000 rpm
• Max Torque (CNG): 95.2 Nm at 4000 rpm
• Max Power (Petrol): 83 PS at 6000 rpm
• Max Torque (Petrol): 113.8 Nm at 4000 rpm
• Transmission: 5-speed Manual

Design Overview

The Exter stands out with its bold, micro-SUV design, giving it a strong road presence.

• Exterior: It features a boxy, upright stance that truly makes it look like an SUV. The H-signature LED DRLs (Daytime Running Lights) at the front are quite distinctive, and the parametric design elements add a modern touch. The front grille is chunky, and the squared-off wheel arches give it a rugged appeal. Depending on the variant, you might also find smart-looking wheels.
• Interior: Step inside, and you are greeted by a dual-tone cabin that feels spacious and well laid out. The digital instrument cluster provides clear information to the driver. The seats are comfortable, making it suitable for both city commutes and longer journeys. Hyundai has focused on practicality and user-friendliness in the cabin design.

Key Features (for S Smart Dual CNG)

Even in its S Smart Dual CNG trim, the Exter comes packed with some impressive features:

• Infotainment System: An 8-inch touchscreen display that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for seamless smartphone integration.
• Connectivity: Connects your phone for navigation, music, and calls.
• Digital Instrument Cluster: A modern digital display for driver information.
• Steering Mounted Controls: For audio and calls, adding convenience.
• Manual Air Conditioning: Keeps the cabin cool efficiently.
• Front and Rear Power Windows: Standard convenience.
• Keyless Entry: Makes accessing your car easier.

Please note that features like an electric sunroof, 360-degree camera, and wireless charging are usually available in higher, petrol-only variants and not typically found in the S Smart Dual CNG trim.

What is the Ground Clearance of Hyundai Exter?

The Hyundai Exter boasts a healthy 185 mm of ground clearance, which is excellent for navigating Indian roads, especially dealing with speed breakers and uneven surfaces with ease.

What is the Boot Space of Hyundai Exter CNG?

While the petrol Exter offers 391 litres of boot space, the CNG variant will naturally have reduced space due to the placement of the CNG cylinders. However, Hyundai has cleverly used a twin-cylinder CNG setup. This innovation allows for relatively better usable boot space compared to rivals that use a single, larger cylinder. You can still fit some luggage, but expect it to be less than the petrol version.

What are the Dimensions of Hyundai Exter?

The Exter is a compact SUV, perfect for city driving while offering ample cabin space:

• Length: 3815 mm
• Width: 1710 mm
• Height: 1631 mm
• Wheelbase: 2450 mm

Powertrain Options

The Hyundai Exter is primarily available with a 1.2 litre Kappa petrol engine. For those looking for even better fuel economy, there is also the 1.2 litre Kappa Bi-Fuel (Petrol with CNG) option, which is the focus of our discussion today. Both come with a 5-speed manual transmission, and the petrol engine also offers an AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) option.

Safety Features

Safety is a big highlight of the Exter, with Hyundai making significant efforts to provide a secure ride. The S Smart Dual CNG variant comes equipped with:

• 6 Airbags: (Driver, Passenger, Side, Curtain) as standard across all variants, a segment-first achievement.
• ABS with EBD: Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution for controlled braking.
• ESC (Electronic Stability Control): Helps prevent skidding.
• VSM (Vehicle Stability Management): Enhances stability during sudden braking or turns.
• HAC (Hill Start Assist Control): Prevents the car from rolling backward on inclines.
• TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System): Alerts you about low tyre pressure.

NCAP Rating Table

The Hyundai Exter has proven its mettle in safety tests:

Rating Agency	Adult Occupant Protection	Child Occupant Protection
Bharat NCAP	5 Stars	5 Stars
Global NCAP	Not Tested	Not Tested

Rivals of Hyundai Exter S Smart Dual CNG

The Exter CNG faces competition in the increasingly popular micro-SUV and hatchback segment. Its key rivals include:

• Tata Punch CNG
• Maruti Suzuki Ignis
• Maruti Suzuki Swift CNG (though a different body style)
• Citroen C3 (petrol only, but similar segment)

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Advantages

• Excellent Fuel Efficiency: CNG offers significant cost savings on fuel, making daily commutes very economical.
• High Safety Standards: With 6 standard airbags and a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating, the Exter sets a new benchmark for safety in its segment.
• SUV-like Stance: Its rugged and upright design gives it great road presence and a commanding view from the drivers seat.
• Good Ground Clearance: The 185 mm ground clearance is perfect for tackling diverse Indian road conditions.
• Feature-rich Cabin: Even the S Smart Dual CNG variant offers essential features like an 8-inch touchscreen and digital cluster, enhancing comfort and convenience.
• Hyundai's Strong Service Network: Access to a wide and reliable service network across India provides peace of mind.
• Twin-Cylinder CNG Advantage: Allows for relatively more usable boot space compared to single-cylinder CNG setups.

Disadvantages

• Reduced Boot Space: Despite the twin-cylinder setup, the CNG cylinders still take up a considerable amount of boot space compared to the petrol variant.
• Lower Power on CNG: While adequate for city driving, the power output is noticeably lower when running on CNG compared to petrol, especially on highways or during quick overtakes.
• Manual Transmission Only: The CNG variant is only available with a 5-speed manual gearbox, meaning no automatic convenience for those who prefer it.
• Missing Premium Features: Being a mid-range variant, it misses out on some premium features like a sunroof, wireless charging, and a 360-degree camera which are available in higher petrol trims.

Conclusion

The Hyundai Exter S Smart Dual CNG emerges as a truly compelling option for Indian car buyers. It perfectly balances the need for economical running costs with robust safety features and a host of modern conveniences. If you are someone who drives a lot, prioritises safety, and wants an SUV-like feel without breaking the bank on fuel, the Exter S Smart Dual CNG should definitely be on your shortlist.

While it does have some compromises like reduced boot space and only a manual gearbox for CNG, its overall package of safety, features, and the peace of mind of Hyundai's reliability makes it a strong contender in the compact SUV segment. It is a smart choice for families and individuals looking for a practical, safe, and cost-effective daily driver in India.