In the ever-evolving automotive landscape of South Africa, Hyundai has adapted its product range to suit with a strong presence in the small passenger car segment – recently strengthening this with the launch of the Exter into the compact crossover segment.
If we look at the price-pairing of our test 1.2 Elite at R334 900, it ranks with the Omoda C5 1.5 Street (R329 900), Suzuki Fronx 1.5 GLX manual (R335 900) and Renault Kiger 1.0 Turbo Intens manual at R339 999 a first glance seems anomalous with the smaller Hyundai engine ranked with two 1,5-litre options – but then there is the 1,0-litre Renault at the top of the price list.
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Although the Hyundai does give way in terms of power and torque to the Omoda and Suzuki, it is clear Hyundai has worked quite hard on its price positioning because the Exter comes with a bag full of goodies on the inside that make it worthy of the price positioning.
Like the Venue before it, the Exter goes for a bold look that reflects Hyundai's ‘Sensuous Sportiness’ philosophy. Its front grille, paired with daytime running lights (DRLs) in a distinctive H-shape above the halogen headlights, gives the vehicle a head-turning look. The signature H-shape design is also echoed in the rear lights.
The design is further enhanced by silver skid plates at both the front and rear, as well as 15-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels
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The Exter’s exterior design also has practical features such as bridge-type roof rails, a rear spoiler, a sharkfin antenna and LED turn indicators on the side mirrors.
The vehicle measures 3 815 mm in length, 1 710 mm in width and stands at a height of 1 631 mm with roof rails. A wheelbase of 2 450 mm ensures a stable and comfortable ride, while a ground clearance of 185 mm provides ample capability for light off-road excursions.
Talking of which - the Exter is powered by a 1,2-litre Kappa 4-cylinder petrol engine, delivering 61 kW at 6 000 r/min and a peak torque of 114 Nm at 4 000 r/min. Fuel efficiency is impressive, with the AMT recording an average of 6,1 l/100 km on the test cycle.
The automated manual transmission (AMT) has five ratios and the Exter will run from the line getting to 100 km/h in 12,9 seconds and runs out of breath at 160 km/h. Between stationary and that top end, however, the Exter does exactly what it is designed to do and that is to provide comfortable transport in a city and urban setting.
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Any driving urgency is tempered by the energy-sapping Highveld altitude and, while you could not outdrag your mates off the line, the car does not struggle to maintain pace with surrounding traffic and makes its up and downshifts without sounding like a skeleton playing marbles in a biscuit tin.
At the launch Hyundai was at pains to highlight the Exter is kitted with additional sound deadening material and the value of this came through on the drive with road, wind and tyre noise limited more so than some other vehicles in this class.
Equally, the suspension was competent in handling all of our road ripples and returned a comfortable ride with the car staying firmly planted at all times.
Inside, I appreciated the generous knee and legroom, as well as the ergonomic seating layout. The interior is characterised by a 3D pattern dashboard finish, complemented by a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob.
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The Exter's interior also boasts a range of convenient features, such as driver seat height adjustment, adjustable rear headrests and a spacious 290-litre boot. Technology features include a Type C USB fast charger, rear air-conditioning vents and an 8-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Its body structure incorporates Advanced High Strength Steel, which enhances durability and rigidity, ensuring excellent crash protection in both frontal and side impacts. The Exter is equipped with six crash bags (front, side, and curtain), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), Hill Assist Control (HAC), anti-lock braking and rear parking sensors.
The Renault, for example, does not have HAC and has only four crash bags, as does the Omoda.
The Exter comes with a 7-year/200 000 km warranty and a 3-year/45 000 km service plan. Roadside assistance is also provided for 7 years or 150 000 km.
Bigger is not always better and the Exter comfortably provides the proof of this.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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