Nilanjan
The Hyundai Exter, a micro-SUV from South Korean automaker Hyundai Motor India, has taken the Indian market by storm since its launch on May 8. Within a remarkably short span of two months, this compact SUV has already exceeded the impressive milestone of 10,000 unit bookings, signaling its immense popularity among Indian consumers. With its competitive pricing and attractive features, the Hyundai Exter is emerging as a formidable contender in the fiercely competitive micro-SUV segment, posing a serious challenge to the long-reigning champion, the Tata Punch.
Compact yet Rugged: The Hyundai Exter’s Unique Appeal
Hyundai Exter is the latest entrant in the compact SUV segment, which is one of the most competitive and lucrative markets in India. Launched at a starting price of Rs 5.99 lakh, Exter offers a host of hi-tech features that make it stand out from the crowd. Some of these include best-in-class and first-in-segment offerings such as a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless charging, air purifier, ventilated seats, and a panoramic sunroof.
However, Exter faces a tough challenge from its primary rival, Tata Punch, which has already created a buzz with its 5-star safety rating by Global NCAP. Tata Punch is the first car in India to achieve this feat, which makes it one of the safest cars in the country. With safety becoming a key factor in consumer decision making, Exter needs to prove its mettle in this aspect as well.
Hyundai is confident that Exter will emerge as one of the safest cars in India, as per Global NCAP and upcoming Bharat NCAP standards. Hyundai India COO Tarun Garg has said that Exter’s comprehensive range of safety features will enable the SUV to get a good rating in Global NCAP crash tests. He also said that Hyundai is evaluating the possibility of getting Exter tested under Bharat NCAP, which is expected to be launched on October 01, 2023.
So, what makes Hyundai Exter so safe? Let’s take a look at some of the key safety features that Exter boasts of.
6-airbags as standard
One of the most impressive features of Exter is that it comes with 6-airbags as standard across all variants. This includes dual front airbags, side airbags, and curtain airbags. This is a segment-first feature that gives Exter an edge over its rivals, most of which offer only dual front airbags as standard or optional.
Airbags are crucial for reducing the impact of a collision on the occupants and preventing serious injuries or fatalities. According to a study by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH), airbags can reduce the risk of death by 61% for drivers and 43% for passengers in frontal crashes.
Electronic stability control (ESC)
Another segment-first feature that Exter offers is electronic stability control (ESC), which is also known as vehicle stability management (VSM) by Hyundai. ESC is an advanced safety system that helps prevent skidding or loss of control by applying brakes to individual wheels and adjusting engine power when it detects oversteering or understeering.
ESC is especially important from the perspective of Global NCAP ratings, as it is mandated as a standalone option for cars aiming for a 5-star safety rating. As per revised safety standards, ESC will be tested for cars travelling at speeds of up to 80 km/h on wet roads with low friction.
Exter fulfils the eligibility criteria for ESC, as it is being offered with most variants. Even the base-spec variant has ESC as an option. This shows that Hyundai has not compromised on safety even for the entry-level customers.
Hill start assist control (HAC)
Another useful safety feature that Exter offers is hill start assist control (HAC), which prevents the car from rolling back when starting on an uphill slope. HAC automatically applies brakes for up to two seconds after the driver releases the brake pedal and presses the accelerator pedal. This helps in smooth and safe acceleration without using the handbrake or clutch.
HAC is particularly helpful for novice drivers who may find it difficult to balance the clutch and accelerator on steep inclines. It also reduces stress and fatigue for drivers who frequently encounter hilly terrains or traffic jams on slopes.
Tyre pressure monitoring system
Exter also comes with a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), which displays the pressure and temperature of each tyre on the instrument cluster. TPMS alerts the driver if any tyre is underinflated or overheated, which can cause tyre blowouts or reduced grip.
TPMS helps in maintaining optimal tyre pressure, which improves fuel efficiency, handling, braking, and tyre life. It also reduces the risk of accidents due to tyre failure or skidding.
Fortified structure
Apart from these active safety features, Exter also has a strong passive safety feature in the form of its fortified structure. Exter has been built using advanced high-strength steel (AHSS) and high-strength steel (HSS), which account for 75% of its body structure. These materials enhance the rigidity and durability of the car and absorb impact energy in case of a crash.
Exter also has an impact-sensing auto door unlock system, which unlocks the doors automatically when it senses a collision. This helps in quick evacuation of the occupants and rescue operations.
Conclusion
Hyundai Exter is a promising compact SUV that offers a lot of value for money in terms of features, performance, design, and comfort. However, to compete with Tata Punch, which has set a new benchmark in safety, Exter needs to prove its safety credentials as well.
Hyundai is confident that Exter will score well in Global NCAP and Bharat NCAP crash tests, thanks to its comprehensive range of safety features. Exter could be the first Hyundai car in India to get a 5-star safety rating, which would boost its appeal among the safety-conscious customers.
If Exter can achieve this feat, it will not only beat Tata Punch in the safety game, but also establish itself as one of the best compact SUVs in India.
