Hyundai has introduced its all-new compact crossover SUV, the Exter, to the South African market. Aimed at the highly competitive entry-level segment, the Exter combines eye-catching design with a host of features, making it a strong contender in the local market. This vehicle is expected to become a top seller in the crossover and SUV segments, which account for nearly 38% of vehicle sales in South Africa this year.

Powertrain and Performance

Under the hood, the Hyundai Exter is powered by a 1.2-litre Kappa 4-cylinder petrol engine, which produces 61 kW at 6 000 r/min and 114 Nm of torque at 4 000 r/min. This efficient engine comes with two transmission options: a 5-speed manual and an automated manual transmission (AMT), both designed for smooth, refined driving.

Fuel economy is one of the key selling points of the Exter, with the manual variants consuming 5.7 L/100 km, while the AMT versions offer 5.9 L/100 km. The top speed for all models is 165 km/h, ensuring that even this entry-level crossover can hold its own on both urban streets and highways.

Trim Levels

The Exter is available in three distinct trim levels – Premium, Executive, and Elite – each with its own set of features and finishes:

• Exter 1.2 Premium: Available with either a manual or AMT transmission, this entry-level variant offers a solid set of features and a dynamic design for the 15-inch steel wheels.
• Exter 1.2 Executive: This mid-tier model comes with manual and AMT transmission options. It boasts additional comfort features like 15-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, LED turn indicators, and roof rails with a 70 kg load capacity.
• Exter 1.2 Elite: The flagship model, available exclusively with the AMT, takes luxury further with cloth and artificial leather seat upholstery, automatic climate control, and a sunroof.

Across the range, the Exter showcases Hyundai’s “Sensuous Sportiness” design philosophy, with H-shaped LED daytime running lights and a bold grille, giving it a fresh and modern look. The side profile is further enhanced by rugged wheel arch cladding, while the rear is marked by a distinctive H-shaped LED tail light signature.

Spacious and Feature-Rich Interior

Inside, the Hyundai Exter offers a spacious cabin with ample headroom, knee room, and legroom, making long journeys comfortable for both front and rear passengers. The dashboard is modern, featuring a sporty 3D pattern finish, while the top-end models come with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob.

The range offers an 8-inch high-definition infotainment screen, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. Other tech features include a 4.2-inch digital instrument cluster, rear air-conditioning vents, and a Type-C USB fast charger.

Safety and Peace of Mind

Hyundai has equipped the Exter with comprehensive safety features, including six airbags, Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), hill assist control, and anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake distribution. For extra peace of mind, the higher-end models also come with rear parking sensors, and a rear-view camera.

Built with advanced and high-strength steel, the Exter ensures strong structural rigidity and crash energy absorption, offering excellent protection in case of a collision.

Warranty, Service Plan, Pricing

The Hyundai Exter comes with a 7-year/200 000 km warranty, providing long-term peace of mind. Additionally, it includes a 3-year/45 000 km service plan and 7-year roadside assistance, making it one of the most comprehensive packages in the entry-level SUV segment.

• 1.2 Premium manual: R269 900
• 1.2 Premium AMT: R294 900
• 1.2 Executive manual: R289 900
• 1.2 Executive AMT: R314 900
• 1.2 Elite AMT: R334 900