The new Hyundai micro SUV, codenamed Ai3 is set to arrive in India later this year.
Production, release
Officially named EXTER, this micro SUV is set to enter production by July-September 2023 with sales to commence from the upcoming festive season.
It will be positioned in India between the Grand i10 and Venue in the company lineup.
Size
It will measure around 3.8 meters in length, making it the smallest Hyundai SUV on sale in India.
However it is still bigger than the Hyundai Casper – sold in South Korea that stands 3,595mm in length, 1,595mm in width and 1,575mm-1,605mm in height with a wheelbase of 2,400mm.
Exterior
Coming to design, the new model borrows some things from the Venue SUV.
It will sport the Hyundai parametric front grille, split headlamps and LED DRLs.
The DRLs will be in an ‘H’ pattern which are also seen on the soon to be launched Hyundai Santa Fe.
It comes with strong character lines on its bonnet, 15 inch dual tone alloy wheels (lower variants could get steel wheels), angular tail lamps, scuff plates and a sunroof.
Interior
It will receive an electric single pane sunroof, connected car technology with wireless charger, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and digital instrument cluster.
Safety
Features will also include ventilated seats, wireless charging and cruise control along with safety via 6 airbags.
Powertrain
Exter SUV will borrow its engine lineup from the Venue, Grand i10 and Aura.
The 1.2 liter VTVT NA petrol engine produces 82 hp power and 115 Nm torque, mated to a 5 speed manual or AMT.
Top-spec variants could be powered by a 1.0 liter turbo-petrol unit making 99 bhp and 172 Nm.
Although not yet confirmed, Hyundai could also offer a CNG option.
However, there won’t be any diesel engine.
Pricing
Prices could be in the range of Rs 6-11 lakh (ex-showroom).
Upon launch it will compete with Tata Punch, Maruti Suzuki Ignis and Citroen C3.
It could also take on compact SUVs such as the Nissan Magnite and Renault Kiger.
