Expert Review
4.44/5
The Hyundai Exter is one of those small SUVs that understands what Indian buyers actually want: compact dimensions, decent space, good features and enough ground clearance to survive the daily speed-breaker Olympics. The 2026 facelift gets sharper styling, a more premium cabin and a 391-litre boot, while its 185 mm ground clearance makes it comfortable on rough city roads.
The 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol makes 83 PS and 113.8 Nm and can be paired with a 5-speed manual or AMT. There is also a CNG version producing 69 PS and 95 Nm, available with a manual gearbox. The petrol engine is smooth and perfectly adequate for the city, although it can feel a little lazy when overtaking on highways with a full load. The compact size, light controls and high seating position make the Exter particularly easy to drive and park.
Who should buy it? Someone who wants a compact, easy-to-drive SUV with good features, practical space and the option of CNG.
What will bug you? Highway performance is only average, the AMT can feel slow during quick shifts and rear-seat width is not ideal for three adults.
