The recent launch of the Hyundai Exter by the South Korean car manufacturer has sent shockwaves through the Indian auto industry. Priced at an enticing starting price of Rs 5.99 lakh (ex-showroom), this micro-SUV has quickly become the talk of the town, capturing the attention of car enthusiasts across the country.
The Exter’s remarkable success can be attributed to its aggressive design and a plethora of advanced features, all offered within an affordable price range. However, the overwhelming response from customers has resulted in an unforeseen consequence – a staggering waiting period of 12 weeks for prospective buyers.
Following its official launch, the Exter witnessed an unprecedented surge in bookings, completely reversing the waiting period situation. Hyundai revealed that the micro-SUV, touted as a direct rival to the Tata Punch, is currently receiving an average of 1,800 pre-bookings per day, and this number is expected to grow even further.
The company also shared the breakdown of the bookings, highlighting that 40 percent were for the petrol variant, 38 percent for the AMT (Automatic Manual Transmission), and 22 percent for the CNG variant. Authorized dealerships have confirmed that the waiting period varies depending on the chosen variant. Currently, the manual and CNG models of the Exter have a maximum waiting period of around seven to eight weeks. On the other hand, the AT (Automatic Transmission) variant commands a waiting period of up to 12 weeks.
To cater to different customer preferences, Hyundai has introduced the Exter with three engine options. The first variant is equipped with a 1.2L Kappa petrol engine, delivering a maximum power output of 82 bhp and a peak torque of 113.8 Nm. The remaining options include a 1.2L Bi-fuel Kappa petrol and CNG engine, providing buyers with the choice of alternative fuel options.
The Hyundai Exter has undoubtedly made a strong impression on Indian car buyers with its captivating design, advanced features, and competitive pricing. However, prospective buyers will need to exercise patience due to the extended waiting period. As excitement builds around this micro-SUV, it is poised to redefine the segment and pave the way for Hyundai’s continued success in the Indian market.
