Hyundai Exter vs Tata Nexon

The compact SUV segment in India is more crowded than ever. With almost every major automaker entering this space, buyers have several choices. Two of the latest players in this category are the Hyundai Exter and the facelifted Tata Nexon.

The Exter is Hyundai's first attempt at a micro-SUV for India, while the Nexon received a substantial makeover for 2023. Both models come packed with features and sport youthful designs and aim to sway buyers with their value quotients.

This comprehensive guide is an in-depth comparison between the Hyundai Exter and Tata Nexon across all major parameters. Read to get a detailed perspective on how these sub-4m SUVs stack against each other.

Hyundai Exter vs Tata Nexon - Pricing 

Hyundai Exter has a clear advantage when it comes to pricing. The entry-level Exter variants start at just ₹7.01 lakh, which goes up to Rs. 11.18 lakh for the top-end model. It makes the Exter significantly more affordable than the Tata Nexon, especially for budget-conscious buyers.

Conversely, the Nexon commands a premium price tag starting at Rs. 9.17 lakh and going all the way up to Rs. 18.91 lakh for the top-spec model. You must spend over ₹16 lakh to get the same features on the fully loaded Exter. So, purely in terms of value-for-money, the Hyundai Exter provides more features at a relatively lower price point.

However, the Nexon justifies its premium pricing by offering more powerful turbo-petrol and diesel engines, sportier handling dynamics, and an upscale interior. The Nexon caters more towards enthusiastic drivers who want a compact SUV with exciting performance. It also feels more modern, premium and tech-heavy.

Check out:

• Hyundai Exter Variants

• Tata Nexon Variants

Hyundai Exter vs Tata Nexon - Exterior Design and Dimensions

Hyundai Exter

Exter follows Hyundai's new Sensuous Sportiness design language, which aims for a bold and strong visual impact. The front profile looks striking thanks to the aggressive parametric jewel pattern grille with integrated LED headlamps. Its H-shaped LED DRLs perched on top give it a high-tech look.

From the sides, the Exter's tall and boxy proportions become evident. Pronounced wheel arches, Side body cladding and roof rails add to the rugged flair. Stylish diamond-cut alloy wheels complete the sporty stance. At the rear, the Exter gets distinctive H-shaped split LED tail lamps with a skid plate on the bumper. Overall, the Exter looks like a typical modern micro-SUV with plenty of road presence.

Tata Nexon

Coming to Nexon underwent a major transformational change with this facelift. The front fascia looks futuristic thanks to the new tri-arrow LED DRLs that also function as turn indicators. The projector headlamps and a chunky bumper lend an aggressive face.

Like the Exter, the Nexon also features squared-off wheel arches and black body cladding on the sides. However, the 16-inch alloy wheels look more premium and upmarket. The rear highlights include connected LED taillights and an integrated spoiler atop the windshield. Overall, the Nexon facelift ditches the quirkiness of the earlier model for a more coherent and striking design.

Dimensions 

As for dimensions, the Exter measures 3815 mm in length, 1710mm in width and 1631mm in height, along with a 2580mm long wheelbase. The Nexon is marginally bigger at 3993 mm long, 1804 mm wide, and 1620mm tall and has a 2498mm wheelbase. Regarding ground clearance, the Exter offers 185mm while the Nexon provides an impressive 208mm.

Explore more:

• Hyundai Exter Dimensions

• Tata Nexon Dimensions

Hyundai Exter vs Tata Nexon - Interior, Comfort and Features

Hyundai Exter

Stepping inside, the Hyundai Exter greets you with an all-black cabin offering a minimalistic yet appealing layout. The dashboard is dominated by a large 8-inch touchscreen accompanied by a digital driver's display and climate control knobs. Dash quality appears quite upmarket with tasteful silver highlights.

The front seats come finished in leatherette and offer adequate support. Rear seat space is also sufficient, but tall passengers may find the headroom just adequate. The Exter's boot has a capacity of 391 litres, right in line with other micro SUVs.

Some highlighting comfort and convenience features on the Hyundai Exter include wireless phone charging, an electric sunroof, push-button start/stop, auto headlamps and wipers, a driving rear view monitor and more. You also get connected car tech-enabled over Bluetooth functions.

Tata Nexon

Moving to the Nexon, the cabin witnessed a major overhaul as part of the facelift. The all-black interior looks more premium now thanks to the new flat-bottom steering wheel, gloss black and silver accents, leatherette seats and a floating touchscreen infotainment system. In addition, its climate control console has been redesigned as well.

The front seats come with a ventilation function for the driver. Rear seat space appears adequate, but tall passengers may find headroom slightly limited owing to the sloping roof. At 382 litres, the boot capacity is similar to the Exter.

Some key features on the Nexon include an electric sunroof, auto headlamps and wipers, rear AC vents, a cooled glovebox, a push-button start, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a large digital driver display, and more. You also get connected features through the IRIS system.

Hyundai Exter vs Tata Nexon - Engine, Gearbox and Mileage

Hyundai Exter

The Hyundai Exter is powered by a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine that produces 83bhp and 114 Nm of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed MT and an AMT automatic. Its petrol motor can also be paired with a factory-fitted CNG kit.

In the petrol-MT guise, the Exter delivers 19.4kmpl in real-world conditions, which is respectable. The CNG variant delivers 27.1km/kg, making it economical for running costs. 

Tata Nexon

Tata Nexon has two powertrain choices: a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol and a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel. The petrol produces 118 bhp and 170 Nm, while the diesel generates 113bhp and 260 Nm.

The Nexon's gearbox options comprise a 6-speed MT and AMT for both engines. The turbo-petrol also gets a new 7-speed DCT automatic. In terms of real-world mileage, the Nexon petrol-MT gives around 17.4kmpl, while the diesel-MT delivers 23.2kmpl.

The turbocharged engines of Nexon give it an eagerness to rev and strong in-gear power delivery. Unlike the Exter, it always feels underpowered and energised. The AMT clutch is also better tuned now, resulting in slicker shifts. Moreover, the DCT auto is smooth and keeps the engine well within its power band.

Also read:

• Hyundai Exter Mileage

• Tata Nexon Mileage

Hyundai Exter vs Tata Nexon - Safety 

Hyundai Exter

On the safety front, the Exter comes equipped with six airbags, ABS, parking sensors, and standard electronic aids like seatbelt reminders as standard. However, you only get added safety kits like electronic stability control, VSM, hill-hold assist and more on higher trims. Still, the Exter appears reasonably well-equipped for a micro-SUV.

Tata Nexon

With its 5-star Global NCAP rating, the Nexon is one of the safest compact SUVs around. It has dual front airbags and ABS as standard, right from the base variant. Higher variants include up to six airbags, ESP, hill-hold control, ISOFIX anchors, etc. The robust build quality also adds to your peace of mind.

Which One Should You Buy?

The Exter makes a compelling case as an urban micro-SUV with its bold styling, feature-loaded cabin and efficient engine options, including CNG. For the majority of city usage by families on a budget, the Exter fits the bill nicely. However, the Nexon is more satisfying for enthusiasts who frequently travel long distances or want better driving dynamics. 

Its potent turbo engines and upscale interior make it feel pricier than it is. And you can't ignore its stellar 5-star crash test rating. So, if you have the budget, the Nexon is more powerful, stylish, and safe, albeit at a premium. However, both SUVs have their merits and make a strong case in the hotly contested compact SUV space. So, conduct research and test drive both cars before you decide which car to buy. 

FAQs

Here are some of the most common questions and their answers related to Hyundai Exter vs Tata Nexon

Is the Hyundai Exter a safe car?

Yes, the Hyundai Exter appears to be a safe car based on the numerous safety features it comes equipped with. The Exter includes six standard airbags, seat-belt reminders to help passengers buckle up, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and ISOFIX child seat anchors.

Is Nexon SUV or compact SUV?

The Tata Nexon is a compact SUV. It is not a full-size SUV.

Which SUV offers more features?

The Hyundai Exter and Tata Nexon have comparable features like touchscreens, connected tech, sunroofs etc. But lower Exter variants pack more features for the price compared to equivalent Nexon models.

Why is the Nexon more expensive than Exter?

The Tata Nexon commands a premium price over the Hyundai Exter due to its more powerful engine options, better safety ratings, upmarket interiors and an overall more premium package. 

Does the Exter have an automatic transmission option?

Yes, the Hyundai Exter has a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT automatic transmission. The Nexon also gets manual and AMT gearboxes and a new 7-speed DCT automatic on the petrol version.

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