Test drove the Hyundai Exter AMT: 5 observations including cabin space

Build quality feels better than other Hyundai cars like the Gi10 Nios, new Verna and Alcazar.

BHPian Venku2015 recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

So, guys, I happened to test drive the Exter SX(O) AMT DT today. The test drive was with a total of 3 occupants with the AC set to 20 degrees. I will breakdown my observations categorically as follows:

Build quality: It felt at least 25% better than other Hyundai cars like the Gi10 Nios, new Verna and Alcazar, which were parked beside the Exter in the showroom. The door didn't have the typical European thud but was better than other cars.

Engine and Gearbox: Was pleasantly surprised by the refinement of this little 1.2 NA engine. It's dead silent at idle and you need to look at the speedo to realize that the engine is running. Now the Hyundai wild card in the Exter chapter is the AMT gearbox which does come with paddle shifters! Yes, I think this is the only car in its segment to come with paddle shifters and it's fun to use. Gearshifts are way faster if you compare them with other brand AMT cars in the market. It's very well-tuned and the best AMT in the market today. Behaves 85% like a Torque Converter AT box!
The engine doesn't feel as punchy as the Suzuki 1.2 but has a good mid-range. It takes a while to pick up from lower speeds but fares better as the revs climb. One will also enjoy the engine note at 4k+ rpm, it sounds sweet

Handling & suspension: The steering is feather lite at parking speeds and weighs up slightly at higher speeds, but not very confidence inspiring. It also auto-centres after taking a turn which is a plus. The suspension felt about adequate, it's a bit on the softer side, but didn't bottom out easily. No issues with the 185mm GC either, more than sufficient to handle the tallest of speed breakers.

Space: Its got ample headroom for all passengers, but lacks under-thigh support at the rear. Also, the rear is strictly for 2 adults, even a 5-year-old kid will fit in tightly with two adults at the rear. The boot is spacious and can swallow two big-size suitcases and one duffel bag, but the loading lip is very high, something like the Baleno.

Feature-wise Hyundai has nailed it, and gets everything one could imagine in this segment, only thing it lacked is the auto wipers and ventilated seats!

Overall it's a great buy & super VFM car for the city and occasional highway runs. We booked the SX(O) AMT by putting down an 11k token amount. Deliveries will be fast as the sales rep said Hyundai has planned a large production plan with the Exter and was promised delivery within 45 days.

Pro Tip: Do not buy the SX(O) AMT DT variant, instead go for the SX(O) AMT, you will save a massive 48K in the on-road Karnataka price. You can anyways get the roof wrapped for about 10k outside.

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