Hyundai Exter SX AMT

About Hyundai Exter SX AMT

Buying a new car in India is a big decision. You have so many things to think about: your budget, how safe the car is, how much it will cost to maintain every month, whether it has the latest features, and how good the company's service network is. It can be overwhelming, right? Well, today we are taking a close look at a car that is making waves in the micro-SUV segment: the new Hyundai Exter SX AMT. This vehicle promises a lot and we are here to tell you if it lives up to the hype.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

The Hyundai Exter SX AMT comes with a reliable and peppy 1.2-litre Kappa petrol engine. This is a well-known engine from Hyundai, famous for its smooth performance and decent fuel efficiency.

• Engine Type: 1.2-litre, 4-cylinder Kappa Petrol
• Maximum Power: 83 PS (at 6000 rpm)
• Maximum Torque: 113.8 Nm (at 4000 rpm)
• Transmission: 5-speed Automated Manual Transmission (AMT)

Design Overview

The Exter stands out with its fresh and bold design, giving it a strong SUV presence despite its compact size.

Exterior Design

• Bold Front Fascia: Features distinctive H-signature LED DRLs and a unique parametric design grille that gives it a futuristic look.
• SUV Stance: Chunky wheel arches, protective cladding all around, and functional roof rails enhance its rugged appeal.
• Modern Rear: Stylish H-shaped LED taillights connected by a black strip complete the contemporary design.

Interior Design

• Spacious Cabin: Despite its exterior dimensions, the Exter offers a surprisingly roomy cabin, especially for front passengers.
• All-Black Theme: The interior sports an all-black theme, giving it a premium and sporty feel.
• Digital Instrument Cluster: A fully digital instrument cluster provides all essential driving information clearly.
• Ergonomic Layout: Controls are well-placed and easy to reach, making for a comfortable driving experience.

Key Features

Hyundai is known for loading its cars with features, and the Exter SX AMT is no exception.

• 8-inch Touchscreen Infotainment System (with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto)
• Electric Sunroof (first-in-segment feature)
• Voice Commands for Sunroof and other functions
• Wireless Phone Charger
• Automatic Climate Control
• Digital Instrument Cluster with Multi-Information Display
• Dashcam with Dual Camera (Front & Rear, another segment-first)
• Connected Car Technology (Hyundai Bluelink, on higher variants)
• Rear AC Vents
• Cooled Glovebox
• Footwell Lighting
• Rear Wiper and Washer

What is the Ground Clearance of Hyundai Exter?

The Hyundai Exter boasts a healthy ground clearance of 185 mm. This is excellent for Indian road conditions, allowing it to tackle potholes and speed breakers with ease.

What is the Boot Space of Hyundai Exter?

The Exter offers a generous boot space of 391 litres. This is one of the best in its class, perfect for family road trips or weekly grocery runs.

What are the Dimensions of Hyundai Exter?

• Length: 3815 mm
• Width: 1710 mm
• Height: 1631 mm (with roof rails)
• Wheelbase: 2450 mm

Powertrain Options

The Hyundai Exter primarily comes with the 1.2-litre Kappa petrol engine. This engine is available with two transmission choices:

• 5-speed Manual Transmission
• 5-speed Automated Manual Transmission (AMT), which is the focus of our SX AMT review.

For those looking for more fuel efficiency, Hyundai also offers a factory-fitted CNG option with the manual transmission.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority for Hyundai, and the Exter leads its segment with several features.

• 6 Airbags Standard: The Exter is the first in its segment to offer 6 airbags (driver, passenger, side, and curtain) as standard across all variants.
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
• Vehicle Stability Management (VSM)
• Hill-start Assist Control (HAC)
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• Rear Parking Sensors and Camera
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
• Day and Night IRVM (Inside Rear View Mirror)

NCAP Rating Table

The Hyundai Exter has undergone safety testing and performed very well.

Rating Type	Adult Occupant Protection	Child Occupant Protection
Bharat NCAP	5-Star	3-Star
Global NCAP	Yet to be rated	Yet to be rated

Rivals of Hyundai Exter SX AMT

The Hyundai Exter SX AMT competes in a tough segment against several strong contenders:

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

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Pros of Hyundai Exter SX AMT

• Segment-First Features: Standard 6 airbags, an electric sunroof, and a dashcam truly set it apart.
• Bold SUV Design: Its upright stance and distinctive styling give it a strong road presence.
• Refined Engine: The 1.2L Kappa engine is smooth and offers good drivability in urban conditions.
• Spacious and Practical Cabin: Offers good legroom and headroom, making it comfortable for four adults.
• High Ground Clearance: 185 mm is perfect for Indian roads.
• Large Boot Space: 391 litres is impressive for its segment.
• Trusted Brand and Service: Hyundai's extensive service network and reputation for reliability are a big plus.
• Convenient AMT: Makes city driving much easier and less tiring.

Cons of Hyundai Exter SX AMT

• AMT Jerkiness: Like most AMTs, it can exhibit some jerkiness during gear shifts, especially at lower speeds.
• No Turbo Petrol Option: Lacks the punch of a turbo engine that some rivals offer, which could be noticeable on highways.
• Rear Seat Width: While good for two adults, seating three abreast in the rear can be a bit of a squeeze for longer journeys.
• Hard Plastics: Some interior plastics feel a bit hard, though fit and finish are good.

Conclusion

The Hyundai Exter SX AMT emerges as a highly compelling package for Indian car buyers. It ticks nearly all the boxes: it is safe with its standard 6 airbags and 5-star Bharat NCAP rating for adult safety, it is packed with segment-first features like the sunroof and dashcam, it offers a practical and spacious interior with impressive boot space and ground clearance, and it comes with the peace of mind of Hyundai's widespread service network. While the AMT might have its characteristic slight jerk, it significantly enhances urban driving convenience. If you are looking for a compact SUV that delivers on style, safety, features, and practicality without breaking the bank, the Hyundai Exter SX AMT deserves a very serious look. It truly offers a complete package for the modern Indian family.