The Indian automobile market has seen a sharp rise in the demand for compact SUVs, especially those offering better fuel efficiency and eco-friendly performance. Among the recent launches that have caught the attention of car enthusiasts is the Hyundai Exter EX HY-CNG, a smart combination of performance, economy, and sustainability. Hyundai has introduced this CNG variant to appeal to environmentally conscious buyers who want to save on fuel costs without compromising on design, comfort, and technology.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Hyundai Exter EX HY-CNG, including its design, performance, interiors, features, mileage, price, and much more. Whether you are planning to buy your first car or upgrade to a modern and efficient compact SUV, this comprehensive review will help you make an informed decision.
Overview of Hyundai Exter EX HY-CNG
The Hyundai Exter is positioned as a stylish and compact urban SUV that caters to both young professionals and small families. The EX HY-CNG variant offers a unique advantage—dual fuel compatibility with petrol and compressed natural gas (CNG). This means you can drive the vehicle on either fuel type, maximizing both savings and convenience.
Hyundai launched the Exter with the goal of providing an affordable SUV that doesn’t compromise on technology or safety. The EX HY-CNG variant enhances this offering with a more economical running cost and reduced carbon emissions, making it an ideal choice for city commuters and long-distance travelers alike.
Engine and Performance
The Hyundai Exter EX HY-CNG is powered by a 1.2-liter Kappa petrol engine, which is also compatible with CNG fuel. The engine delivers a maximum power output of around 68 bhp in CNG mode and 82 bhp in petrol mode. The torque output stands at approximately 95 Nm for CNG and 113 Nm for petrol.
The engine is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission (MT) that provides smooth gear shifts and excellent drivability in both urban and highway conditions. The car’s power delivery is linear, and the transition between petrol and CNG modes is seamless, ensuring that you experience no lag or jerk when switching fuel types.
While CNG vehicles generally offer slightly less power compared to petrol-only variants, the Exter EX HY-CNG manages to maintain a good balance of performance and economy, making it suitable for daily commuting as well as weekend getaways.
Fuel Efficiency and Mileage
One of the biggest advantages of choosing the Exter EX HY-CNG is its impressive fuel economy. Hyundai claims that the CNG variant can deliver a mileage of around 27 km/kg, which makes it one of the most efficient vehicles in its class. Even in real-world driving conditions, you can expect a mileage of approximately 25-26 km/kg, depending on traffic and driving style.
The Exter also comes with a dual-fuel setup, meaning that you can switch to petrol when CNG is not available. On petrol, the vehicle offers an average mileage of 19-20 km/l, which is still commendable for a compact SUV.
With rising fuel prices, the CNG option becomes even more attractive for budget-conscious buyers who want to save on running costs without compromising on modern features and safety.
Exterior Design
Hyundai has given the Exter a bold and youthful design that stands out in the compact SUV segment. The Exter EX HY-CNG carries the same design language as its petrol counterparts. The front fascia features a parametric grille, sleek H-shaped LED DRLs, and projector headlamps that give it a distinctive appearance.
The boxy yet compact silhouette adds to its SUV appeal, while the flared wheel arches and dual-tone bumpers enhance its ruggedness. The overall design looks premium, especially when compared to other CNG-powered vehicles in the market, which often prioritize function over style.
The Exter’s proportions make it ideal for city driving—compact enough for narrow lanes yet tall enough to offer a commanding view of the road.
Interior and Comfort
Step inside the Hyundai Exter EX HY-CNG, and you’ll be greeted by a well-designed cabin that focuses on both comfort and functionality. The interior layout is neat and modern, featuring high-quality materials for its price range.
Some of the key interior highlights include:
- Dual-tone black and beige upholstery for an elegant look
- Ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers
- Multi-function steering wheel with mounted controls
- Adjustable driver’s seat for better ergonomics
- Spacious boot with CNG tank neatly integrated to maximize cargo space
The Exter’s CNG kit is installed in a way that it doesn’t eat too much into the boot capacity, making it more practical than most CNG vehicles in its category.
The AC performance is strong even in CNG mode, ensuring that passengers remain comfortable in all weather conditions. The cabin insulation is also decent, minimizing road and engine noise effectively.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Hyundai Exter EX HY-CNG doesn’t compromise on technology, even though it’s a mid-level trim. It comes equipped with essential connectivity and entertainment features that enhance your driving experience.
Key infotainment and tech features include:
- A 4-speaker audio system with USB and Bluetooth connectivity
- Steering-mounted audio and phone controls
- Digital instrument cluster displaying mileage, range, and fuel mode
- Front power windows and keyless entry
- 12V power outlet and USB charger ports
Though it doesn’t come with the advanced features found in higher variants like touchscreen infotainment or Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, the EX HY-CNG provides everything you need for a pleasant drive.
Safety Features
Hyundai prioritizes safety, and the Exter EX HY-CNG is no exception. The company has equipped this variant with several active and passive safety features that ensure peace of mind for the driver and passengers.
Key safety features include:
- Dual front airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Rear parking sensors
- Seatbelt reminder for all seats
- High-speed alert system
- Central locking with child safety locks
- Impact-sensing auto door unlock
Hyundai has also designed the Exter’s body structure using high-strength steel, which improves crash protection and stability. This makes it one of the safest vehicles in its segment, especially considering its CNG integration is thoroughly tested and certified for Indian conditions.
Driving Experience
When it comes to driving, the Hyundai Exter EX HY-CNG feels smooth, refined, and agile. The steering is light, making city driving and parking effortless. The clutch and gear shifts are smooth, and the suspension setup is tuned well for Indian roads, offering a good mix of comfort and stability.
In CNG mode, you’ll notice a slightly slower throttle response compared to petrol, but it’s hardly a dealbreaker for daily commuting. The engine performs quietly, and the cabin remains calm even during long drives.
The Exter’s ground clearance of around 185 mm ensures that you can tackle uneven roads and speed bumps with ease. Overall, it provides a confident driving experience with excellent ride quality.
Price and Variants
As of now, the Hyundai Exter EX HY-CNG is priced competitively in the Indian market, starting from around Rs. 8.33 lakh (ex-showroom). This pricing makes it an excellent value proposition considering its features, design, and dual-fuel efficiency.
It sits between the base variant (Exter CNG EX) and higher variants like S and SX trims, offering a good balance between affordability and premium features.
Maintenance and Ownership Cost
CNG vehicles are known for their low running and maintenance costs, and the Hyundai Exter EX HY-CNG is no different. Regular servicing is easy and affordable, with Hyundai’s extensive service network ensuring accessibility across the country.
The CNG kit comes with factory-fitted components, meaning you don’t have to worry about aftermarket installations or warranty issues. Hyundai’s standard warranty of 3 years/1,00,000 km can also be extended for additional peace of mind.
The Exter’s service intervals are similar to other Hyundai petrol models, and parts availability is never a concern, making ownership hassle-free and economical.
Competitors in the Segment
The Hyundai Exter EX HY-CNG faces competition from several compact SUVs and hatchbacks that also offer CNG options. Its primary competitors include:
- Tata Punch CNG
- Maruti Suzuki Fronx CNG (expected)
- Maruti Suzuki Baleno CNG
- Toyota Glanza CNG
However, the Exter’s SUV styling, build quality, and feature set give it an edge over most CNG hatchbacks. It also feels more premium than other CNG SUVs in terms of comfort and design.
Who Should Buy the Hyundai Exter EX HY-CNG?
The Hyundai Exter EX HY-CNG is perfect for:
- Urban commuters seeking a cost-efficient yet stylish SUV
- Environmentally conscious buyers who prefer low-emission vehicles
- Families wanting an affordable yet spacious compact car
- Those who drive frequently and want to save on fuel expenses
If you value practicality, fuel economy, and modern design, this variant is an excellent choice that delivers on all fronts.
Pros and Cons of Hyundai Exter EX HY-CNG
Pros:
- Excellent fuel efficiency with dual-fuel setup
- Attractive SUV design and robust build quality
- Spacious interiors with good comfort
- Factory-fitted CNG kit for better safety
- Low running and maintenance cost
Cons:
- Slightly reduced boot space due to CNG tank
- Lacks advanced infotainment features in EX variant
- Slight power drop in CNG mode
Despite these minor drawbacks, the Hyundai Exter EX HY-CNG remains a strong contender in the compact SUV segment.
Final Verdict
The Hyundai Exter EX HY-CNG stands out as one of the most practical and economical vehicles in its category. It brings together Hyundai’s trusted engineering, stylish design, and eco-friendly technology into a compact package that perfectly suits Indian driving conditions.
With its superior mileage, comfortable interiors, reliable performance, and affordable pricing, the Exter EX HY-CNG makes a compelling case for anyone looking for a fuel-efficient SUV that doesn’t compromise on looks or safety.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or upgrading from a hatchback, this model offers an excellent balance between performance and economy, making it a smart long-term investment.
FAQs about Hyundai Exter EX HY-CNG
1. What is the mileage of Hyundai Exter EX HY-CNG?
The Exter EX HY-CNG delivers a mileage of approximately 27 km/kg in CNG mode and around 19-20 km/l in petrol mode.
2. Does the Hyundai Exter EX HY-CNG come with an automatic transmission?
No, the EX HY-CNG variant comes only with a 5-speed manual transmission.
3. How safe is the Hyundai Exter EX HY-CNG?
It comes with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, and high-strength steel body construction, making it a safe choice in its segment.
4. Can I switch between petrol and CNG while driving?
Yes, the Exter allows seamless switching between petrol and CNG modes while driving.
5. What is the boot space in Hyundai Exter EX HY-CNG?
Even with the CNG tank, it offers decent boot space for daily luggage needs, though slightly less than the petrol-only variant.
6. What is the price of Hyundai Exter EX HY-CNG?
The ex-showroom price of the Hyundai Exter EX HY-CNG starts around Rs. 8.33 lakh, varying slightly by location.
7. Does Hyundai offer a warranty for the CNG kit?
Yes, the factory-fitted CNG kit is covered under Hyundai’s standard warranty, ensuring complete peace of mind.
8. Is Hyundai Exter EX HY-CNG suitable for long drives?
Yes, it performs efficiently on highways as well, offering smooth handling and stable ride quality.
9. How much does it cost to maintain the Exter EX HY-CNG?
The maintenance cost is affordable, similar to other Hyundai compact cars, thanks to easily available parts and widespread service centers.
10. What colors are available for Hyundai Exter EX HY-CNG?
Hyundai offers multiple color options, including Atlas White, Fiery Red, Starry Night, and Ranger Khaki, among others.
