About Hyundai Exter SX Opt Connect Knight AMT

Hey there car enthusiasts and future car owners! Welcome back to our blog, your trusted guide in the exciting world of Indian automobiles. When you're looking for a new car, a lot of thoughts probably cross your mind: What's my budget? Is it safe for my family? How much will it cost to maintain every month? Does it have all the latest features? And of course, how good is the company's service network?

Well, today we are taking a deep dive into a car that aims to tick all these boxes and more – the new Hyundai Exter SX Opt Connect Knight AMT. This micro SUV has been creating quite a buzz in the market, especially with its unique blend of style, features, and practicality. Let’s break it down and see if this urban warrior is the right fit for your garage.

Main Highlights of the Hyundai Exter SX Opt Connect Knight AMT

Engine Specifications

The Hyundai Exter is powered by a reliable and fuel-efficient engine that's perfect for city commutes and occasional highway runs.

• Engine Type: 1.2L Kappa Petrol Engine
• Displacement: 1197 cc
• Max Power: 83 PS at 6000 rpm
• Max Torque: 113.8 Nm at 4000 rpm
• Fuel Efficiency: Expected around 19-20 kmpl (ARAI certified, actual mileage may vary)

Design Overview

The Exter's design is definitely a head-turner, especially in its Knight Edition avatar.

Exterior Design

• The Hyundai Exter sports a robust and modern SUV stance, despite its compact size.
• Upfront, you get H-shaped LED DRLs and a bold parametric front grille that gives it a distinctive identity.
• The Knight Edition adds blacked-out elements like black alloy wheels, roof rails, and skid plates, giving it a sportier and more aggressive look.
• It also features textured side cladding and a muscular tailgate design with H-shaped LED tail lamps.

Interior Design

• Step inside, and you are greeted by a well-laid-out cabin with a premium feel for its segment.
• The all-black interior theme with red inserts (in the Knight Edition) looks smart and youthful.
• Comfortable seating with good under-thigh support makes it suitable for longer journeys.
• The dashboard design is driver-centric, ensuring all controls are easily accessible.

Key Features

Hyundai has packed the Exter with a host of features that enhance convenience and connectivity.

• Infotainment System: 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
• Connectivity: BlueLink connected car technology, offering over 60 connected features.
• Sunroof: Segment-first electric single-pane sunroof with voice control.
• Camera: A handy 360-degree camera system for easy parking in tight spots.
• Charging: Wireless phone charging pad.
• Climate Control: Automatic climate control for optimal cabin temperature.
• Dashcam: Dual camera dashcam with front and rear recording.
• Cluster: Fully digital instrument cluster with a multi-information display.

Ground Clearance

• The Hyundai Exter boasts an impressive 185 mm of ground clearance, which is excellent for tackling Indian roads and occasional rough patches without scraping the underbody.

Boot Space

• With 391 litres of boot space, the Exter offers ample room for your luggage, groceries, or weekend getaway essentials, making it quite practical for a compact vehicle.

Dimensions

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

Powertrain Options

The Hyundai Exter is available with two powertrain options:

• 5-speed Manual Transmission (MT): For those who prefer direct control over gear shifts.
• 5-speed Automated Manual Transmission (AMT): The focus of our discussion today, offering clutch-free driving convenience in city traffic. This AMT car provides ease of use without compromising much on fuel efficiency.
• It also comes with a CNG option with a 5-speed manual gearbox, for even lower running costs.

Safety Features

Hyundai has prioritized safety in the Exter, equipping it with a range of active and passive safety features.

• 6 Airbags (Standard across all variants)
• ABS with 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

NCAP Rating Table

Safety is paramount, and here is how the Hyundai Exter stands in terms of NCAP ratings:

Rating Body	Adult Occupant Protection	Child Occupant Protection
Bharat NCAP	5 Stars	5 Stars
Global NCAP	Not yet tested	Not yet tested

The Hyundai Exter has achieved a commendable 5-star rating in both Adult and Child Occupant Protection under the Bharat NCAP protocols, making it a truly safe car India option in its segment.

Rivals of Hyundai Exter SX Opt Connect Knight AMT

The micro SUV segment is competitive. The Hyundai Exter primarily competes with:

• Tata Punch
• Citroen C3
• Renault Kiger
• Nissan Magnite
• Maruti Suzuki Fronx (cross-hatchback)

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Pros (Advantages)

• Exceptional Safety: 6 airbags standard and a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating instill confidence.
• Feature-Rich Cabin: Segment-first features like voice-enabled sunroof and dashcam offer great value.
• Unique Styling: Bold, rugged SUV looks with the special Knight Edition appeal.
• Smooth AMT Gearbox: The AMT transmission makes city driving effortless and comfortable.
• High Ground Clearance: Handles varied road conditions with ease.
• Spacious Boot: Practical for daily use and occasional trips.
• Hyundai's Service Network: Wide and reliable after-sales service across India.

Cons (Disadvantages)

• Engine Performance: While adequate, it might feel a bit underpowered for spirited highway driving compared to turbo-petrol rivals.
• Rear Seat Width: Three adults might find the rear bench a bit snug on longer journeys.
• Hard Plastics: Some cabin plastics, while durable, could feel more premium.
• No Diesel Option: Only available in petrol and CNG, which might be a drawback for high-mileage users looking for diesel economy.

Conclusion

The Hyundai Exter SX Opt Connect Knight AMT truly stands out as a compelling choice in the compact SUV segment. It brings together Hyundai's renowned reliability, a strong focus on safety with 6 airbags and a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating, and a generous list of segment-first features. Whether you prioritize a safe car India, a feature-loaded car, or an easy-to-drive AMT car for urban commutes, the Exter makes a strong case for itself.

For prospective buyers, especially those looking for their first compact SUV or an upgrade from a hatchback, the Exter offers an attractive package. Its stylish design, practical interiors, and the peace of mind that comes with Hyundai's service make it a contender you absolutely must consider. Take a test drive and experience the Hyundai Exter yourself – it just might be the perfect budget SUV for your family!