The Hyundai Exter has arrived in South Africa, offering a new entry-level crossover SUV option to customers of the Korean brand.
The Indian-built newcomer shares its 3,815mm length and 2,450mm wheelbase with the Hyundai Grand i10, but has a boxy new body shell that makes it slightly taller and wider than its hatchback sibling.
Ground clearance is listed at 185mm, which gives you a 25mm advantage over the Grand i10 if you ever find yourself on a really dodgy dirt road.
Pricing starts at R269,900 for the 1.2 Premium manual model, with the AMT auto version coming in at R294,900, while the 1.2 Executive costs R289,900 in manual guise and R314,900 as an auto. Topping the pile is the 1.2 Elite AMT at R334,900.
For the record, the Grand i10 is priced from R224,900 to R309,000, but some versions feature a smaller 1.0-litre engine.
All Hyundai Exter models are powered by the same normally aspirated 1.2-litre petrol engine that pushes 61kW and 114Nm through the front wheels via either a five-speed manual or or AMT (automated manual transmission).
What features does the Hyundai Exter come with?
The 1.2 Premium ships standard with an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with voice control, as well as manual air conditioning, steering wheel controls, rear park assist and electric windows and mirrors.
The 1.2 Executive gains cruise control, ambient cabin lighting, reverse camera and artificial leather trim for the steering wheel.
In addition to all that, the range-topping 1.2 Elite comes with automatic air conditioning, sunroof and a cloth and vinyl seat upholstery combination.
Safety kit includes six airbags and ABS across the Exter range, but only AMT versions come with ESP stability control and Hill Start Assist.
Externally the Premium rolls on 15-inch covered steel wheels, while the Executive and Elite gain 15-inch alloys and roof rails. The latter comes standard with a black roof and side mirrors, but this black styling package is also available on the Executive as an optional extra.
All versions come with a service plan that’s valid for three years or 54,000km as well as a five-year or 150,000km manufacturer’s warranty, with an additional two years or 50,000km worth of coverage provided for the powertrain.