In what can be termed as a remarkable success story, Hyundai India’s recently launched sub-compact SUV, the Hyundai Exter, has taken the market by storm. Launched in July 2023 with an attractive starting price of Rs 5.99 lakh (ex-showroom), the Exter has garnered over 75,000 bookings, reaffirming Hyundai’s strong presence in the Indian market.
Exceptional Demand Leads to Production Ramp-Up
The overwhelming demand for the Hyundai Exter has led to waiting periods that stretch up to nine months for eager customers. Recognizing the immense popularity of the top-spec variants of the Exter, Hyundai has decided to take immediate action. Initially producing 6,000 units per month, the automaker has now increased production to 8,000 units per month to cater to the growing demand.
Hyundai’s production facility in Chennai not only caters to the domestic market but also serves export markets. To meet the burgeoning domestic demand, reports suggest that Hyundai is diverting some of its production meant for exports. This strategic move demonstrates Hyundai‘s commitment to serving its Indian customers promptly.
Hyundai Exter: A Versatile Lineup
The Hyundai Exter comes in five distinct variants, offering a versatile lineup to cater to diverse customer preferences. The available variants include:
- EX: Positioned as the entry-level variant, this trim offers a strong value proposition.
- S: The S variant builds on the EX’s features, providing additional options and enhancements.
- SX: The SX variant introduces even more features and technology, making it a compelling choice for tech-savvy buyers.
- SX(O): This variant takes luxury and convenience to the next level, offering a premium driving experience.
- SX(O) Connect: For those who crave advanced connectivity and infotainment options, the SX(O) Connect variant delivers with cutting-edge technology.
Powertrain Options to Suit All Needs
Under the hood, the Hyundai Exter offers versatile powertrain options to cater to different driving preferences and requirements. Powering the Exter is a 1.2-liter 4-cylinder petrol engine, delivering a respectable 83 BHP and 114 Nm of torque when running on petrol.
For those seeking an economical alternative, the Exter is also available with a CNG variant. While running on CNG, the power output slightly drops to 69 BHP, accompanied by 95.2 Nm of torque. The petrol version of the Exter provides flexibility with the choice of either a 5-speed manual gearbox or an AMT (Automated Manual Transmission). On the other hand, the CNG variant comes equipped with a manual transmission as standard.
The Hyundai Exter has certainly made a significant impact on the Indian sub-compact SUV market. With its competitive pricing, feature-packed variants, and diverse powertrain options, it appeals to a broad spectrum of consumers. As production capacity is poised to increase further in the coming year, potential buyers can look forward to shorter waiting periods, ensuring that the Exter continues to be a popular choice for Indian SUV enthusiasts.
