Hyundai has quietly refreshed the Exter, its aggressively priced small SUV, primarily for the Indian market. Launched in 2023, the Exter now receives minor styling tweaks and interior enhancements, while maintaining its core appeal: affordability.
Exterior Refinements
The updated Exter retains its distinctive split LED headlights with the signature H-shaped graphics. However, the front bumper has been redesigned with a larger grille, an aluminum-style insert, and repositioned badging for a slightly bolder look.
The side profile gains chunkier plastic cladding around the wheel arches, giving it a more rugged appearance, complemented by redesigned 15-inch alloy wheels. At the rear, a dual-wing roof spoiler, simplified trim between the taillights, and a revised bumper complete the visual updates. Two new color options – Golden Bronze and Titanium Black Matte – have also been added.
The Exter measures 3,995 mm (157.3 inches) in length, making it Hyundai’s smallest SUV in India. This is notably 400 mm (15.7 inches) longer than the Korean-market Casper, indicating its design is tailored for the Indian preference for slightly larger compact vehicles.
Interior Enhancements
Inside, the 8-inch infotainment system remains, but now includes wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. New Navy Blue and Grey upholstery options have been introduced, alongside a carbon-style pattern on the dashboard.
The cabin also gains practical additions like a dashcam, a flat-bottom steering wheel, metal-finished pedals, a central armrest, and Type-C USB ports. A height-adjustable driver’s seat is now standard across all trims, along with six airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and Hill-Start Assist Control – features that were not necessarily expected in this price segment.
Unchanged Powertrains
The Exter continues to offer the same powertrain options: a naturally aspirated 1.2-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine producing 82 hp (61 kW / 83 PS) and 114 Nm (84 lb-ft) of torque, and a bi-fuel variant running on CNG that delivers 68 hp (51 kW / 69 PS) and 95 Nm (70 lb-ft). Both are front-wheel drive only.
The gasoline model provides 391 liters (13.8 cubic feet) of boot space, while the bi-fuel variant has reduced cargo capacity at 225 liters (7.9 cubic feet) due to the CNG tank placement.
Remarkably Low Pricing
The 2026 Hyundai Exter starts at just Rs 5.80 lakh (approximately $6,200) for the base HX 2 trim, rising to Rs 9.42 lakh (around $10,000) for the top-spec HX 10. This pricing positions it as one of the most affordable SUVs in the market, making it an attractive option for first-time car buyers or those seeking a budget-friendly vehicle.
The Exter facelift demonstrates Hyundai’s strategy of continuous improvement, even on its most affordable models. The modest updates, combined with its extremely competitive pricing, ensure that the Exter remains a strong contender in the entry-level SUV segment.
