Also, check: Hyundai Creta Dimensions
Hyundai Exter vs Hyundai Creta - Interior Space and Design
Hyundai Exter
The Hyundai Exter's all-black cabin appears neat and functional, with its minimalist dashboard layout centred around an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Space is adequate for 4 adults and 1 child. The rear bench seat is reasonably wide, but fitting 3 adults shoulder-to-shoulder can be tight. Boot space stands at 391 litres, which is decent for a subcompact SUV.
Check out: Hyundai Exter Interior Images
Hyundai Creta
In contrast, the Creta's dual-tone black-beige cabin looks more upscale and premium. The layout is similar to the Exter, but the larger 8-inch or 10.25-inch touchscreen adds to the upmarket ambience. The infotainment supports Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, BlueLink-connected car tech and BOSE audio system in higher trims. Ambient lighting, ventilated front seats, and panoramic sunroof further enhance the premium feel.
Rear seat space is one of the Creta's biggest strengths. There is abundant legroom and headroom, even for tall passengers, thanks to the Creta's larger dimensions. Three adults can sit comfortably shoulder-to-shoulder. Rear passengers also get dedicated AC vents, charging ports and adjustable headrests. At 433 litres, boot space is significantly more than the Exter.
Check out: Hyundai Creta Interior Images
Hyundai Exter vs Hyundai Creta - Features Face-Off
Hyundai Exter
The top-end Exter variants come loaded with features like an electric sunroof, 8-inch touchscreen, wireless phone charger, paddle shifters (AMT only), ambient lighting, push-button start/stop, cooled glovebox, cruise control, and more. However, they miss out on premium features like connected car tech, ventilated seats, air purifiers, etc., which you find in rivals like Tata Punch.
Hyundai Creta
The Creta takes the game to another level with features like a 10.25-inch touchscreen, premium Bose sound system, panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, power-adjustable driver seat, 360-degree parking camera, paddle shifters and drive modes. It also offers connected car technology, adding to the overall premium appeal.
The Creta is the clear winner when it comes to features on offer. Buyers looking for a fully loaded SUV will prefer the top-spec Creta variants.
Hyundai Exter
The Exter has a 1.2L petrol engine that generates 83bhp and 114Nm. It has two transmission choices: 5-speed MT and 5-speed AMT. A factory-fitted CNG option is also available. The Exter offers adequate power for daily commutes but lacks punch for enthusiastic driving. Fuel efficiency stands at 19.4kmpl (MT) and 19.2kmpl (AMT).
Hyundai Creta
The Creta offers three powertrain options: 1.5L petrol (115bhp/144 Nm), 1.5L diesel (116bhp/250 Nm), and 1.5L turbo-petrol (160bhp/253 Nm). Gearbox choices include 6-speed MT, IVT, 6-speed AT, and 7-speed DCT auto. Performance is sprightly across the range, while fuel efficiency varies from 17-22 kmpl.
The Creta clearly outperforms the Exter in terms of engine performance and transmission options. Enthusiasts will love the Creta's peppier motor options.
Hyundai Exter vs Hyundai Creta - Mileage
The Exter comes with a 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol engine paired to either a 5-speed MT or AMT gearbox. This motor delivers an ARAI-certified mileage of 19.4kmpl for the MT and 19.2kmpl for the AMT variants. It also has a factory-fitted CNG variant that returns an impressive 27.1km/kg, making it the most fuel-efficient version.
In comparison, the Hyundai Creta is available with three engine options: 1.5L petrol, 1.5L diesel, and 1.5L turbo-petrol. Depending on the engine and transmission, the mileage figures range between 17 and 22 kmpl. The 1.5L turbo-petrol DCT is the least efficient at 18.40 kmpl, while the 1.5L diesel manual offers 20 kmpl, making it the most frugal Creta.
The smaller 1.2L engine, along with the option of factory-fitted CNG, allows the Exter to deliver better fuel economy. The Creta's larger and more powerful engines sacrifice mileage for performance. For buyers who drive mainly in the city and want maximum efficiency, the Hyundai Exter is the clear winner when it comes to fuel economy.
Check Out:
Hyundai Exter vs Hyundai Creta - Safety
Hyundai Exter is equipped with 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, seat belt reminders, and a speed alert system as standard. Higher variants add electronic stability control, hill hold control, tyre pressure monitoring, and a rear parking camera with guidelines.
The updated Hyundai Creta now offers 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, vehicle stability management, hill hold/start assist, rear disc brakes, and ISOFIX child seat anchors as standard. Additional ADAS tech is available on higher variants.
Both SUVs offer decent safety kits in the base variants. However, the Creta goes ahead by offering ADAS features at the top end. Safety-conscious buyers should consider the Creta over the Exter.
Which SUV Should You Buy?
Hyundai Exter
Compact micro SUV priced from Rs. 7-12 lakh
Ideal for singles, couples & small families
Rugged styling, adequate space for 4, 391L boot
1.2L petrol (83hp/114Nm) and CNG options
19.4kmpl mileage, adequate performance
Good safety: 6 airbags, ABS, rear camera
Hyundai Creta
Premium midsize SUV priced Rs. 12-23 lakh
Ideal for bigger families
Bold styling, premium cabin, 433L boot
Multiple engine-gearbox options, sprightly performance
Mileage from 16-22 kmpl
Loaded with features, extra safety from 6 airbags & ADAS
Final Word
So, in the end, it comes down to your budget and expectations from an SUV. The Exter and Creta cater to two different types of buyers, despite being from the same brand. If you want the experience of a bigger SUV, you must go for the Hyundai Creta. However, Exter is the ideal option if you want a compact SUV that you can comfortably drive on narrow roads. However, test drive both vehicles before you decide to buy either of these excellent Hyundai SUVs.
Frequently Asked Questions
