The new Hyundai Exter prototype was recently photographed on open roads in its fully exposed form. @seoul_car_spotting took these pictures of the example when it was parked in Seoul, South Korea.
The ICE-powered baby SUV will make its debut in India this summer, although it remains unknown whether Hyundai will introduce the Exter in other markets.
Small wheels and a narrow stance give the Exter a top-heavy appearance. There are H-shaped LED graphics, split headlamps, and a contemporary bumper intake among notable design features. The wheel arches are covered in squared-off plastic cladding, giving the profile a larger Hyundai Mufasa look. The Exter has a minimal back overhang, taillights modeled after Audi Q2, and a black panel joining the rear glass with the side windows to create the illusion of a “floating roof” at the rear.
The Exter appears to be built on the K1 platform, which also underpins the Grand i10 Nios/Aura, the i10 in India, and the Casper in Korea. It is positioned to compete in the mini SUV segment against rivals like the Suzuki Ignis, Tata Punch, and Mahindra KUV100 in the Indian market.
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According to reports from Indian media, the upcoming Hyundai Exter may have two engine options, with a manual or automatic gearbox to deliver power to the front wheels. There will be a naturally aspirated 1.2L petrol engine producing 82 hp and a turbocharged 1.0L petrol engine producing 99 hp, with a future CNG variant being a possibility as well.
The recent sightings of unmasked Exter prototypes being driven by Hyundai employees in Korea are a sign that the model’s formal unveiling is drawing near. The baby SUV is supposedly going to start being produced in the second half of this year, and its market launch in India is currently anticipated to occur in August 2023.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com