Every now and then, a car comes along that makes you feel like Goldilocks finding that perfect bowl of porridge: not too big, not too flashy, just right. The Hyundai Exter is that kind of car. It’s unapologetically compact, undeniably cute, and refreshingly no-nonsense – a pocket-sized SUV that proves small can still pack a punch.
In a world obsessed with oversized everything, the Exter feels like a breath of fresh air. It’s like catching an old-school movie on VHS but with HD sound – familiar and nostalgic, but undeniably updated for the times. And the fact that I got to drive it with a manual gearbox? A rare treat! With most modern cars pushing automatics, there’s something delightfully engaging about rowing your own gears.
Cute with a hint of mischief
First impressions? The Exter’s design is like that of a cheeky kid with a twinkle in their eye – adorable yet confident. Its compact proportions, combined with squared-off lines and playful details, make it stand out in a sea of similarly styled crossovers.
The split headlamp setup, bold grille, and clamshell bonnet give it a tough little attitude, while details like roof rails and alloy wheels add a sprinkle of adventure.
At just 3 815mm long, it’s perfectly sized for urban jungle duty – nipping into tight parking spots and squeezing through traffic with the ease of a mouse scuttling under a door. But don’t let its size fool you; it’s got just enough ruggedness to tackle the odd gravel road for that impromptu weekend getaway.
Cosy and contemporary
The Exter has a surprisingly roomy cabin that feels modern and thoughtfully laid out. The dashboard design is simple yet functional, and Hyundai has gone the extra mile to give it a premium feel with textured surfaces and a neat layout.
What really steals the show, though, is the tech. Hyundai has packed this little champ with enough gadgets to keep even the most connected millennials happy. Depending on the trim, you get an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a digital instrument cluster, and even a voice assistant to make you feel like you’ve got a co-pilot.
And for a car at this price point, the standard features are impressive. Rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, dual airbags, and ABS with EBD are all included as standard across the range, while higher trims add niceties like automatic climate control, wireless phone charging, and a sunroof. Yes, a sunroof!
Zippy and fun
Under the bonnet, the Exter comes equipped with a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine that delivers 61kW and 114Nm of torque. On paper, these numbers might not set your heart racing, but on the road, they’re more than enough to keep things lively.
The lightweight nature of the Exter means it doesn’t need a beefy engine to feel sprightly. Around town, it’s nippy and responsive, happily darting through traffic and zipping away from stoplights. On the open road, it cruises comfortably at highway speeds, though overtaking does require a bit of forward planning.
And then there’s the five-speed manual gearbox… Changing gears yourself gives you that direct connection to the car, reminding you of the simple joy of driving. It’s slick and easy to use, with a clutch that won’t leave your left leg begging for mercy in rush-hour traffic. There’s also an automated manual transmission (AMT) available for those who prefer not to DIY their gear changes.
Fuel efficiency? You’re looking at an average of around 5.4 litres per 100km, which makes the Exter a wallet-friendly option in these fuel-price-sensitive times.
Back to basics
One of the things I loved about the Exter is its no-frills approach to motoring. It doesn’t try to overwhelm you with techy gimmicks or pretend it’s something it’s not. Instead, it focuses on getting the basics right while adding just enough modern touches to keep you smiling.
But don’t think for a second it lacks personality. The Exter has plenty of that, whether it’s in the way it handles a tight corner with confidence or how it bobs along gravel roads without rattling your teeth out.
In the compact SUV segment, the Exter squares up against some worthy rivals. The Renault Kiger and Nissan Magnite come to mind, both offering similar dimensions and competitive pricing. Then there’s the Suzuki Fronx, which also targets budget-conscious buyers with a taste for style.
But the Exter’s ace up its sleeve is its undeniable charm. While the Kiger and Magnite might offer more aggressive designs, and the Fronx leans towards sportiness, the Exter’s playful personality and robust feature set make it a standout option for anyone seeking a practical yet characterful runabout.
The verdict
The Hyundai Exter is proof that small cars can still make a big impression. Its compact dimensions, efficient engine, and impressive features make it a perfect fit for city slickers and weekend adventurers alike. And let’s not forget its cheerful design – it’s the kind of car that makes you smile every time you see it parked in your driveway.
In a market that’s increasingly dominated by oversized SUVs and high-tech automatons, the Exter is a refreshing reminder of why we fell in love with cars in the first place. It’s simple, fun, and full of character – a back-to-basics charmer with just enough modern pizzazz to keep things interesting.
Would I take it over its rivals? For the price, personality, and pure driving joy, it’s hard to beat. The Exter might not shout for attention, but it certainly deserves a place in the spotlight.
Model line-up & pricing
- 1.2 Motion Manual: R239 900
- 1.2 Motion AMT: R259 900
- 1.2 Fluid Manual: R269 900
