Hyundai has finally launched its candidate, the Exter, for the micro-SUV segment in the Indian automotive market. Before this, the Tata Punch was known to dominate this segment, and this launch is expected to change things. Let’s see how these two micro-SUVs sit across from each other:
Design & Dimensions
The Punch has a muscular design inspired by its elder siblings, such as Nexon and Harrier. It features a high bonnet line with the signature split headlight design and the prominent Tata grille. It has dynamic character lines and a strong shoulder line with a roof-mounted spoiler. We have the dimensions below in mm:
| Aspect/Car | Punch | Exter |
| Length | 3827 | 3815 |
| Width | 1742 | 1710 |
| Height | 1615 | 1631 |
| Wheelbase | 2445 | 2450 |
| Ground Clearance | 190 | 160 |
Also Read: Fronx vs Hyundai Exter: A Comparison of Popular Models!
The newly launched Exter has a more modern and aerodynamic design with a cascading grille and H-shaped LED DRLs and projector headlights in the same split setup. It also features thick side cladding and roof rails; overall, it has better appeal as a micro-SUV. However, Punch offers better ground clearance but is slightly shorter and wider.
Engine & Transmission
Both of these micro-SUVs are powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine with promising fuel efficiency figures. However, the Exter has a four-cylinder engine compared to the three-cylinder engine of the Punch.
| Engine/Car | Punch | Exter |
| Power | 86hp & 113Nm torque | 83hp & 114Nm torque |
| Fuel efficiency | 18.97 kmpl | 19.4 kmpl |
Also Read: Tata Motors Trademarks “Frest” for Upcoming SUV?
The power figures are almost the same, with Punch producing 3hp more, but Exter will be more agile and fuel-efficient, along with having a more responsive engine. Both cars have a 5-speed manual transmission as standard, along with an AMT on offer. But the Punch comes with the Traction-Pro mode with the AMT variants, unlike the Exter.
Features & Price
Exter has a modern and advanced cabin with adequate legroom and premium upholstery. It has an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, wireless charging, an electric sunroof, and a built-in dash cam. It also comes with Hyundai’s Blue Link Connect.
Also Read: Hyundai Exter: 5 Key Highlights
The Tata Punch comes with a dual-tone interior and premium upholstery, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Tata’s iRA Connect, and automatic climate control as well. It misses out on the dash cam, and Hyundai beat Tata to launch the first micro-SUV with a factory-fitted CNG kit.
Both cars have essential safety features such as ABS, EBD, dual airbags, ESC, and hill-start assist. Tata offers the Punch in 26 variants across a price range of ₹6-9.52 lakhs ex-showroom. Hyundai offers the Exter in 11 variants across a similar price range of ₹5.99-10 lakhs ex-showroom.
