The Hyundai Exter presents itself as a attractive option, offering an interesting mix of features that balance practicality with affordability. Can it win over a young family?
Families with young children are often the most demanding and thorough car testers. We lent our Hyundai Exter 1.2 Executive to Michael and Marie-Louis, a couple with two young boys, to get their thoughts on the plucky Korean car.
Exterior design
The Exter’s exterior styling is somewhat polarising. Marie-Louise describes it as “a bit of a trapezoidal experiment” with a busy design and unconventional proportions. The roof line sits higher than typical hatchback-SUV cross-overs, giving it a distinctive profile that some might find awkward.
Michael, however, appreciates the front end design, noting its unique arrangement with day-time running lights (DRLs) positioned above the headlights, giving it “a bug look, but in a pleasing, Disney Pixar kind of way.”
Spacious yet compact
The Executive version comes equipped with sporty bridge-type roof rails (with an impressive 70 kg load capacity) and stands 1,63m tall. The vehicle measures 3,8m in length with a 2,45m wheelbase, offering a substantial footprint for its class. This means passenger space is plentiful for its size, while it’s still compact enough for stress-free parking and easy inner-city manoeuvres.
Interior and comfort
Inside, the Exter is functional if not luxurious. Marie-Louise points out that while the silver plastic accents on the dashboard attempt to add visual interest, they somewhat detract from the overall aesthetic. Nevertheless, she notes that the build quality is good for its class.
Legroom and storage
The cabin offers sufficient legroom for front passengers, with adequate space in the rear for children. Adults might find longer journeys in the back seats less than comfy, though the rear space is commendable considering the vehicle’s overall dimensions.
One notable drawback is the limited interior storage. Marie-Louise specifically mentions the lack of a console between the front seats, leaving only door bins, cup holders, and a phone space for storing personal items. “Also, the boot is tiny,” she added.
Technology and features
The Exter impresses with its technology offerings. The infotainment system features an 8-inch high-definition screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Marie-Louise describes it as “an excellent entry-level system” with an interface that’s easy to use while driving.
The Executive trim includes several premium features that might surprise at this price point:
- Auto-on headlights
- Cruise control
- Electric mirrors
- A 4,2-inch colour TFT multi-information display
- Steering-mounted audio and trip computer controls
- Rear-view parking camera
Performance
In urban environments, the Exter shines as a nimble city car. Marie-Louise describes it as “nippy” with comfortable steering and easy manoeuvrability due to its compact size. Visibility is good all around, with no significant blind spots.
On the open road, however, the 1,2-litre engine shows its limitations. With 61 kW at 6 000 rpm and 114 Nm of torque at 4 000 rpm, the Exter “lacks a bit of power” at highway speeds, running at high rpms and generating cabin noise. Despite this, the gear shifting is smooth, and the overall driving experience feels refined. Fuel consumption for the week came to 6,2 ℓ/100km.
The 185mm ground clearance combined with 15-inch wheels gives the Exter reasonable capability on gravel roads, extending its versatility beyond urban use.
Safety
Safety features are comprehensive for the segment, including:
- Six airbags
- ABS braking system
- Rear-view camera
- ISOFIX child seat anchors
- Tyre pressure monitoring system
Value proposition
At R289 900, the Exter 1.2 Executive manual represents solid value, especially considering Hyundai’s generous 7-year/200 000 km warranty and 3-year/45 000 km service plan. Roadside assistance for 7 years or 150 000 km further enhances the ownership proposition.
Final verdict
The Hyundai Exter 1.2 Executive manual is a capable micro SUV that delivers a surprising amount of features and refinement for its price point. While its exterior design may not appeal to everyone and its highway performance is modest, it excels as a city car with good exterior visibility, strong safety credentials, and excellent warranty coverage.
It’s best suited for urban drivers seeking practicality, efficiency, and value in a package that offers more ground clearance and versatility than a traditional hatchback. In Marie-Louise’s words, it feels like “a little car with grown-up car features,” which aptly summarises its place in the market.
Rating
The Hyundai Exter 1.2 Executive manual sells for R289 900 and scores 4 out of 5.
4.0 out of 5.0 stars
