Hyundai Exter Long-Term Review: 23000km Ownership Report

📌 Overview

Since its launch, the Hyundai Exter has emerged as a go-to micro SUV for Indian urban and semi-urban buyers. After covering 23,000 km over a mix of city commutes, highway drives, and rural roads, it’s time to evaluate how the Exter performs as a long-term companion.

🔧 Variant Tested

Model: Hyundai Exter SX(O) AMT
Engine: 1.2L Kappa Petrol
Transmission: AMT (Automated Manual Transmission)
Mileage Covered: 23,000 km
Fuel Type: Petrol
Ownership Duration: 13 months

🛣️ Driving Experience

✅ City Driving

The Exter is compact and easy to maneuver, making it ideal for crowded urban areas. The light steering and elevated seating position offer a commanding view. Despite being an AMT, gearshifts are fairly smooth, and creep function is helpful in traffic.

✅ Highway Performance

While not a performance machine, the 1.2L petrol engine is peppy enough for cruising at 90-100 kmph. The AMT does feel sluggish on inclines and overtaking requires planning. Road noise is average, but the Exter feels stable even at higher speeds.

✅ Suspension and Comfort

The suspension setup strikes a balance between softness and stability. It absorbs bumps and potholes quite well, making it comfortable for passengers on long drives.

⛽ Mileage Report

City Mileage: ~14.5 kmpl (AC on, bumper-to-bumper traffic)
Highway Mileage: ~18.5-19.5 kmpl (cruise speeds, light luggage)
Overall Mileage (Mixed driving): ~16.2 kmpl
Fuel efficiency remained stable post 10,000 km after initial engine run-in.

🔧 Maintenance & Reliability

Service Intervals: Every 10,000 km
Total Maintenance Cost (Till 23,000 km): ₹7,800 (approx.)
Parts Replaced: Air filter, cabin filter, engine oil, brake pads (once at 20,000 km)
Common Issues: None major. One instance of touchscreen lag was fixed with an update.
Build Quality: No rattles or squeaks even after 23k km—commendable in this segment.

🧳 Practicality & Space

Boot Space: 391 litres—handled weekend trips and airport runs with ease.
Cabin Space: Excellent for four adults; five is tight but manageable.
Interior Quality: Well put together, no visible wear and tear.
Features Used Most: Sunroof, wireless Android Auto, rear camera, TPMS.

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⭐ Pros

Stylish and youthful design
Light controls make it ideal for first-time drivers
Good fuel efficiency
Hyundai’s service network is a big plus
Loaded with features for the price

❌ Cons

AMT not as refined as a proper automatic
Engine lacks punch when fully loaded
Rear seat under-thigh support could be better
Sunroof shade lets in a bit too much heat in summers

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📊 Final Verdict (Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ 4/5)

After 23,000 km, the Hyundai Exter has proven to be a reliable, stylish, and well-rounded city-friendly SUV. It’s not the most thrilling to drive, but for buyers prioritising ease of use, comfort, features, and peace of mind, it’s one of the best in the segment. With proper maintenance, this micro SUV should comfortably last beyond 1 lakh kilometres.

Hyundai Exter Long-Term Review: 23000km Ownership Report