Hyundai Motor India EXTER 2026 facelift compact SUV launch India

Hyundai Motor India introduced the refreshed EXTER compact SUV on March 20, 2026, with a starting price of ₹5,79,900 (ex-showroom). The update strengthens the model’s presence in the highly competitive sub-₹10 lakh SUV category by adding new styling elements, expanded safety coverage, and enhanced connectivity features. Since its debut in 2023, the model has crossed two lakh unit sales, and this upgrade aims to sustain its growth among young urban buyers seeking feature-rich entry SUVs.

Variant Lineup and Pricing Structure

The refreshed SUV is offered in 15 variants spanning petrol manual, petrol AMT, and CNG manual configurations. The base petrol manual variant starts at ₹5,79,900, while the top-end petrol AMT reaches ₹9,41,900. The CNG range, branded Hy-CNG Duo, is priced between ₹6,99,900 and ₹9,40,900. Customers can book the vehicle through dealerships or online using the brand’s digital platform with a token amount of ₹11,000.

Exterior Design and Dimensional Updates

The latest version receives a redesigned front bumper and an updated black radiator grille with a new centre garnish, giving the vehicle a broader stance. New R15 diamond-cut alloy wheels and a wing-type rear spoiler enhance its sporty appeal. Additional updates include revised C-pillar styling, tailgate garnish, and wheel arch cladding, all contributing to a stronger SUV character.

Dimensionally, the vehicle maintains a height of 1,643 mm with roof rails and a wheelbase of 2,450 mm, supporting improved cabin space. The overall length stands at 3,830 mm and width at 1,723 mm. New colour additions such as Golden Bronze and Titanium Black Matte expand the palette, alongside existing monotone and dual-tone options.

Interior Enhancements and Comfort Features

Inside the cabin, the SUV adopts a dual-tone Navy and Grey theme complemented by a 3D carbon-pattern dashboard finish. A D-cut steering wheel, folding driver armrest, and revised seat upholstery enhance the overall user experience. Metal pedals, introduced as a segment-first feature, add a sporty touch to the driver area.

Practicality has also improved, with driver seat height adjustment and adjustable rear headrests now standard across all variants. The petrol variants offer a boot capacity of 391 litres, while maintaining generous cabin space for passengers in terms of legroom and headroom.

Technology and Connected Features Expansion

The technology suite has been expanded with the addition of a dashcam, aimed at improving safety in urban driving conditions. Wireless smartphone connectivity through Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is supported, along with a rear Type-C USB port for passenger convenience. Existing front USB ports continue to be available.

Bluelink and Digital Ecosystem

The connected car platform now offers over 60 features, including remote operations, vehicle tracking, and driving analytics. It also supports more than 300 offline voice commands, ensuring usability even in low network areas. Additional features include over-the-air updates, an electric sunroof, and a digital instrument cluster, maintaining continuity with the previous version.

Powertrain and CNG Configuration

The powertrain setup remains unchanged, featuring a 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine paired with either a five-speed manual or AMT transmission. The four-cylinder configuration continues to differentiate it from competitors using three-cylinder engines, offering smoother refinement, especially at higher speeds.

The Hy-CNG Duo variant uses a dual-cylinder layout integrated with the petrol engine in a bi-fuel configuration. A key improvement is the inclusion of an underbody-mounted spare tyre, freeing up luggage space. As a result, the CNG variants deliver a boot capacity of 225 litres, balancing practicality and fuel efficiency.

Safety Enhancements and Segment Positioning

Safety has been significantly strengthened with over 45 features, including 30 standard across all variants. Key additions include Electronic Stability Control, Hill-Start Assist, and six airbags as standard equipment. This shift aligns with evolving consumer expectations and regulatory focus on safety standardization across entry-level vehicles.

Within the India compact SUV market, the model competes with offerings like Maruti Suzuki Fronx, Tata Punch, and Renault Kiger. The segment continues to evolve rapidly, driven by feature upgrades, pricing pressure, and safety benchmarks. This update positions the EXTER to remain competitive by combining affordability with enhanced value proposition in one of the fastest-growing passenger vehicle categories.