KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Hyundai Exter sells 7,000 units in a month
- Bookings crossed the 50,000 mark already
- Positioned as a rival to Tata Punch
South Korean automaker introduced the Hyundai Exter SUV to the Indian market on July 10, 2023. With prices starting from Rs. 6 lakhs (ex-showroom), the Exter is offered in seven different variants. Right from the start, the response has been positive, with the carmaker receiving 50,000 bookings since the commencement of reservations. On top of this, 7,000 units have been sold in the first month itself according to the monthly sales report.
While we have witnessed such rocketing numbers before, it's time to look at what the Exter is doing right.
1. Segment-First Features
Notably, it comes with a list of segment-first features like the ESC, wireless chargers, footwell lighting, rear AC vents with power outlets, dual dashcam, an onboard navigation system, and paddle shifters. It also gets 6 airbags as standard across all trims. It offers a pretty loaded-up cabin for a convenient and comfortable drive.
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2. CNG, Right From Its Launch
Another advantage is the CNG powertrain availability right from its launch date. This is something that Punch offered just recently, after showcasing it in January at the Auto Expo 2023. Meanwhile, Hyundai Exter comes with a single 1.2 L petrol engine mated to a 5-speed Manual and an AMT gearbox. It puts out a power of 83PS with a peak torque of 113.8 Nm. However, with the CNG mode, the power figures drop down to 68bhp and 95Nm of torque. It's interesting to note that the CNG version comes with a 5-speed manual only.
3. Sunroof Charms Almost 75% Buyers
While Exter brought the sunroof to become the most affordable in the SUV segment with this feature, it accounts for almost 75% of the bookings. Around three-fourths of the total of 50,000 bookings up to date accounts for the sunroof variants. This shows how likable a sunroof can be, and is also one of the hits that the Hyundai Exter scores. However, as a domino effect, Tata Punch also comes fitted with a sunroof with all powertrain options now, a development that comes right after the Exter's launch and also dethroning it to become the most affordable SUV with a window above.
4. Finally A Punch Rival
Since its launch, Tata Punch has very much enjoyed its lone space. Not anything close was there to contest it. Enters Hyundai Exter, buyers got what they were looking for, an alternative to Punch. While it challenged it for the top spot, it brought significant upgrades over Tata's micro SUV. This is another major factor contributing to its quick rolling out of showrooms.
5. Hitting The Sweet Spot With Its Pricing
Be it anything, it boils down to the price that it retails at. In a price-sensitive market like India, this factor alone makes or breaks a product, not just in cars. Coming to the Exter's homerun, it lies in its starting price of Rs. 5.99 lakhs ex-showroom price. While the top-end model touches the 9.32 lakh rupees mark, it dwindles in the sweet spot where it is getting widely accepted.
Verdict
The Hyundai Exter has scored a home-run for the brand with its precion point pricing along with a robust powertrain with a CNG unit. To top it off, plenty of segment first features, and a fresh push in the segment contributes to its ever mounying sales number. If you wish to drive one home, we suggest you book it as soon as possible in order to skip the longer waiting lines. Also, join our Whatsapp Group Community of petrolheads to find out more exciting news like this.
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