Hyundai has recently introduced the new generation Verna mid-sized sedan in our market. The new Verna brings several first-in-segment features along with a new turbocharged petrol engine. The company has also confirmed that it will launch an all-new micro SUV in the country later this year. The Ai3 subcompact SUV, christened the Hyundai Exter will be the brand’s smallest SUV and will be positioned between the Grand i10 Nios and the Venue compact SUV. In this article, we bring you a list of top 5 things we know about the upcoming Hyundai Exter micro SUV –
Launch Timeline & Competition
The new model will directly rival the Tata Punch, which is currently the one of the top-selling SUVs in the country. Estimated to be priced in the range of Rs 6 lakh to Rs 10 lakh, the new Hyundai Exter will also challenge the likes of the Nissan Magnite and the Renault Kiger. The exact launch timeline is yet to be revealed, but media reports claim that the new Exter could be launched by August 2023.
Based On Grand i10 Platform
The new micro SUV is designed and developed on the K1 platform, which was first introduced in 2008 with the second-gen Hyundai Santro. The platform offers two different wheelbase options – 2400mm and 2450mm, and the later is expected to ride on 2450mm of wheelbase The new model will measure around 3.8 meters in length.
Hyundai Exter Design Details
The new Hyundai Exter micro SUV will measure around 3.8 meters in length, which makes it slightly longer than the Casper (3.6 meters long). The new model will look significantly different from the Hyundai Casper, and it will share design similarities with the Venue compact SUV. In terms of styling, the new micro SUV will share design cues from the Venue with some unique elements. It is likely to get a signature Hyundai grille with integrated LED daytime running lamps, a rectangular-shaped projector headlamp unit and H-shaped tail-lamps, a shark fin antenna. The side profile will have a faux cladding, mostly around the wheel arches and along the doors.
Interior Details
Not just platform and engine options, the new Hyundai Exter small SUV will source the cabin and features from the Grand i10 Nios and the Venue compact SUV. It will have a layered dashboard with a new semi-digital instrument console and a large touchscreen infotainment system. It is expected to get an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay support, an electric sunroof, multi-functional steering wheel, automatic AC, reverse parking camera, 6 airbags and others.
Hyundai Exter Engine Options
The new Hyundai Exter will be powered by a 1.2-litre 4-cylinder naturally-aspirated petrol engine that produces 81bhp and 114Nm of torque. Transmission choices will include a 5-speed manual and an AMT. The small SUV will also receive a CNG powertrain with a 5-speed manual gearbox. The new small SUV could also get a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine that powers the Venue, i20 N-Line and the Kia Sonet. In the current form, the T-GDi engine is capable of producing 120PS and 175Nm of torque. This engine was also offered with the pre-facelift Grand i10, which offers 100PS of power. This powertrain will give the new Exter a competitive advantage over the Punch, which is powered by a 3-cylinder 1.2L NA petrol engine.
