The Hyundai Exter is the latest addition to the micro-SUV segment in India, positioning itself as the smallest SUV from the Korean marque. It directly competes with the Tata Punch and Maruti Ignis, although the Ignis is less SUV-like compared to the others. Now let’s take a closer look at how the Exter fares against its competitors in terms of size, powertrains, and fuel efficiency.
Size
| Dimensions | Hyundai Exter | Tata Punch | Maruti Ignis |
| Length | 3.815 mm | 3,827 mm | 3,700 mm |
| Width | 1,710 mm | 1,742 mm | 1,690 mm |
| Height | 1,631 mm | 1,615 mm | 1,595 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,450 mm | 2,445 mm | 2,435 mm |
| Boot space | 391 litres | 366 litres | 260 litres (up to parcel tray) |
When it comes to size, the Tata Punch is the longest and widest among the three, while the Exter takes the lead in terms of height, which helps enhance its SUV persona. Both models have a similar wheelbase, with the Exter having a slight advantage of an extra 5 mm. Additionally, the Exter offers a larger luggage capacity, likely due to its taller design.
On the other hand, the Ignis is smaller in all aspects compared to the Exter and Punch, making it the most compact offering. While it may seem to have a smaller boot, it’s important to note that the Exter and Punch state their capacities till the roof, not just the parcel shelf.
Powertrain
| Specifications | Hyundai Exter | Tata Punch | Maruti Ignis | |
| Engine | 1.2-litre NA petrol | 1.2-litre NA petrol + CNG | 1.2-litre NA petrol | 1.2-litre NA petrol |
| Power | 83PS | 69PS | 86PS | 83PS |
| Torque | 114Nm | 95Nm | 115Nm | 113Nm |
| Transmission | 5MT/ 5AMT | 5MT | 5MT/ 5AMT | 5MT/ 5AMT |
All three models are equipped with a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine and offer a choice between a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT. The Punch’s engine produces the highest power and torque among the three, giving it a slight edge in terms of performance. However, the Exter is currently the only model in this segment to offer a CNG powertrain.
While Tata is working on a CNG variant for the Punch, it is not available yet, and there is no news of Maruti offering a CNG option for the Ignis. Tata’s CNG variant will provide the convenience of a larger boot due to its twin-cylinder setup and the ability to start the car directly in CNG mode.
Fuel Efficiency
| Mileage | Hyundai Exter | Tata Punch | Maruti Ignis |
| Petrol MT | 19.4 kmpl | 20.09 kmpl | 20.89 kmpl |
| Petrol AMT | 19.2 kmpl | 18.8 kmpl | |
| CNG MT | 27.1 km/kg | NA | NA |
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Tata Punch claims to be more efficient with the manual transmission, while the Hyundai Exter promises better economy with its AMT options. The Ignis offers the same claimed mileage for both manual and AMT variants, which is higher than that of the other two SUVs.
However, if you’re looking for peak fuel economy among these three models, the Exter CNG claims to offer an impressive fuel efficiency of 27.1 km/kg.
Overall, on paper, there isn’t much that sets these three micro SUVs apart, with the Exter and Punch being quite similar overall. The Ignis is the only one that compromises in terms of its smaller proportions. For a more detailed comparison of their features, stay tuned for our upcoming article. Let us know in the comments which one of these would be your preferred choice.
Please note that the information provided here is based on the given context, and it’s always recommended to verify the specifications and features directly from official sources or dealerships before making a final decision.